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Nipple problems

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Definition:

Nipple problems can include tenderness or discharge from the nipple portion of the breast. (See also intraductal papilloma .)

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Nipple tenderness may be caused by inadequate lubricant secretion by the sebaceous glands of the areolar region of the breast or from irritation of the skin from constant excessive moisture that may occur in breastfeeding women. Bacterial or fungal infection of the nipple may also cause nipple tenderness. Tenderness may also result from local trauma or friction over the area.

A milky-appearing nipple discharge may normally occur during pregnancy, shortly after delivery, or in breastfeeding women. It may also be caused by a variety of endocrine disorders.

Chlorpromazine-type drugs and birth control pills may also cause a milky nipple discharge. Abnormal nipple discharge may be caused by breast cancer (least common cause), intraductal papilloma , and mammary dysplasia with ectasia of the ducts (most common cause).

• Review Date: 6/6/2006
• Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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