Which systemic symptoms may accompany infective lactational mastitis?

Infective lactational mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that typically occurs during breastfeeding, frequently as a result of milk stasis or bacteria entering through cracked nipples. The body's response to an infection often involves the activation of the immune system, which can lead to systemic symptoms.

Fever is a common systemic response to infection, indicating that the body is fighting against pathogens. Malaise, or a general feeling of discomfort or unease, is another frequent symptom that accompanies infections, often related to the body's inflammatory response. Myalgias, which are muscle aches, can occur as a result of the body responding to an infection, producing cytokines that can lead to generalized pain and discomfort.

The combination of fever, malaise, and myalgias specifically aligns with how the body typically reacts to a bacterial infection, making it the most appropriate answer for the systemic symptoms associated with infective lactational mastitis. Other options do not reflect the typical inflammatory and infectious response that occurs in this condition. For example, weight gain and fatigue, headaches and dizziness, or gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting are less directly related to the infectious process of mastitis.