Supernumerary nipples
Alternative names:
polymastia; polythelia, accessory nipples
Definition:
The presence of nipples, nipple and areola, or breast tissue
beyond the normal number of two.
Considerations:
Supernumerary nipples are a fairly common occurrence, generally
unrelated to other conditions or syndromes. They usually occur
in a line below the existing nipple and are often not recognized
as extra nipples, because they are usually small and not well
formed.
Common causes:
- variation of normal
- Hay-Wells syndrome (very rare syndrome)
- Ruvalcaba-Myhre syndrome (very rare syndrome)
Note: There may be other causes of supernumerary nipples.
This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented
in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include
unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes
may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as
well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such
as any associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option
to explore the possible explanations for supernumerary nipples,
occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
editorial
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