Nipple Conditions

Nipple conditions can affect both men and women and are often linked to lactation, inflammation, or hormonal changes. It is crucial to seek guidance from a compassionate and experienced multi-disciplinary team if you notice any changes in your nipples or experience new onset discharge.

At Margie Petersen Breast Center, we are renowned for our patient-centric approach, evaluating breast conditions promptly and offering extensive support services.

Understanding and Identifying Nipple Conditions

Nipple Discharge

Nipple discharge, while common and often temporary, can be concerning. Most causes are benign (non-cancerous), with up to 50-80% of women experiencing it during their reproductive years. Discharge can vary in color, appearing clear, bloody, green, gray, or yellowish. Milky discharge is typically associated with pregnancy or breastfeeding and may persist afterward.

The two most common diagnoses for nipple discharge are:

• Duct ectasia: A benign condition where the milk ducts become dilated and clogged.
• Intraductal papilloma: A non-cancerous growth within the milk ducts.

Other potential causes include:

• Overstimulation of breast tissue
• Medication side effects
• Clogged ducts
• Infection
• Benign growths

If you notice spontaneous, persistent discharge from a single area, especially if it is clear or bloody, or if it is associated with an underlying mass, please schedule an appointment with a breast specialist. A clinical breast exam and imaging will be necessary to determine the cause.

Nipple Retraction

Nipple retraction or inversion can significantly alter the appearance of the nipple. It is important to consult a breast specialist if the retraction is associated with underlying breast abnormalities, a palpable mass, or new skin changes.

Approximately 20% of individuals are born with inverted nipples or experience long-standing nipple inversion. In such cases, or if the nipple can be easily everted without other symptoms, the condition is generally considered normal.

Nipple Skin Changes

Benign conditions like eczema or dermatitis can cause skin changes around the nipple. However, Paget’s disease, a rare, noninvasive type of cancer, can also present with nipple skin changes and may indicate an underlying breast mass. Your primary care provider may refer you to a dermatologist for further evaluation if needed.

Nipple Masses

Nipple conditions may first present as nipple discharge. The most common benign lesion causing nipple discharge is an intraductal papilloma or multiple intraductal papillomas. These are masses that develop in the milk ducts, typically in women aged 35-55, composed mainly of glandular and fibrous tissue.

A nipple adenoma is another rare but easily diagnosed condition presenting as a palpable nodule in the superficial layer of the nipple, sometimes causing ulceration or erosive skin changes.

Subareolar breast abscesses are more prevalent in individuals with nipple piercings or smokers. These abscesses form due to infection and inflammation and usually respond well to antibiotics and drainage.

The multidisciplinary team at Margie Petersen Breast Center is here to provide thorough, compassionate care. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment. We’re dedicated to supporting you through every step of your journey.