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Supernumerary nipples - Overview

Alternative Names

Polymastia; Polythelia; Accessory nipples

Definition of Supernumerary nipples:

Supernumerary nipples is the presence of extra nipples.

Considerations:

Supernumerary nipples are fairly common. They are generally unrelated to other conditions or syndromes. The extra nipples usually occur in a line below the normal nipples. They are usually not recognized as extra nipples because they tend to be small and not well formed.

Common Causes:

  • Variation of normal development
  • Some rare genetic syndromes may be associated with supernumerary nipples
  • Reviewed last on: 1/29/2010
  • Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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