Baylor Health Care System
 
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Nipple problems

Symptoms

  • redness, tenderness and/or cracking of the skin surface of the nipple
  • swelling of some portion of the breast (breast lump)
  • increased surface temperature of portion of the breast
  • nipple discharge
  • clear, serous, milky, bloody, or discolored green or brown
  • spontaneous or only when pressure is applied to the breast
  • involving one or both breasts
  • possible breast tenderness

Exams and Tests

A careful history and physical examination should be performed.

  • Cytological evaluation (cell studies) of nipple discharge may be done in some cases, but it is often of limited value.
  • A mammography is usually performed if the cause is not readily evident.
  • A breast biopsy is performed if a mass or lump is found, or it the discharge is occurring spontaneously from one duct.

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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