Nipple problems

Alternative names:

galactorrhea; mammary dysplasia with ectasia of the ducts

Symptoms:

• redness, tenderness and/or cracking of the skin surface of the nipple
• swelling of some portion of the breast (breast lump)
• increased surface temperature of portion of the breast
• nipple discharge
  • clear, serous, milky, bloody, or discolored green or brown
  • spontaneous or only when pressure is applied to the breast
  • involving one or both breasts

• possible breast tenderness

Signs and tests:

A careful history and physical examination should be performed.

• Cytological evaluation (cell studies) of nipple discharge may be done in some cases, but it is often of limited value.
• A mammography is usually performed if the cause is not readily evident.
• A breast biopsy is performed if a mass or lump is found, or it the discharge is occurring spontaneously from one duct.