Nipple discharge, abnormal
Alternative names:
discharge from breasts; milk secretions; lactation, abnormal;
witch's milk; galactorrhea
Definition:
Abnormal discharge from the nipple(s)
Considerations:
The likelihood of nipple discharge increases with age and
number of pregnancies.
While nipple discharge is rare in men, and in women who have
never been pregnant,
it does occur; and when it does, it is more likely to be caused
by some underlying disease (particularly when accompanied
by other changes in the breast(s).
It is relatively common in women who have had at least one
pregnancy. A thin, yellowish, or milky discharge (colostrum)
is normal in the final weeks of pregnancy.
The nature of the discharge can range in color, consistency
and composition and may occur on one side or both sides.
Witches' milk is a term used to describe nipple discharge
in a newborn. The discharge is a temporary response to the
increased levels of maternal hormones. Witches' milk should
disappear within 2 weeks as hormone
levels dissipate in the newborn.
Other nipple discharges can be bloody or purulent (containing
pus) depending on the cause.
Common causes:
Note: There may be other causes of a nipple discharge. 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 quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors,
and associated complaints.
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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