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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

Supernumerary nipple

Supernumerary nipples

Reviewed last on: 2/27/2008
Rachel A. Lewis, MD, FAAP, Columbia University Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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