Is the nipple discharge spontaneous (fluids from the nipple without any squeezing of nipple or pressure on the breasts)? This is often best appreciated when discharge can be seen on the bra or clothing. Regarding nipple discharge, the questions that need to be answered are: The consistency and colour of the discharge does not decrease the suspicion for breast cancer.ĭischarge due to breast cancer can be clear, sero-sanguineous or bloodstained.Īpproximately half of the patients that present with nipple discharge will also have a breast lump and 20% of these patients will have a breast cancer. The most worrying discharge is a spontaneous single duct unilateral persistent discharge. It can cause significant anxiety however, fortunately it is the presenting symptom for breast cancer in less then 12% of all cases. It can be associated with benign or malignant pathology. Nipple discharge can be physiological or pathological. Spontaneous nipple discharge is the third most common reason women present to a breast surgeon. Pain, a burning sensation and itching of the nipple can be present months before the emergence of the typical ulcerated lesion.Ī palpable lump can be felt in roughly 50% of cases, and this will typically be behind or close to the nipple and areola but it can be anywhere in the breast. A bloody discharge may be present, although often it may be clear or yellow. It presents as a scaly, raw or ulcerated lesion on the nipple, and can spread to the areola. Paget disease of the nipple is a very rare form of breast cancer, roughly 1-2% of all new breast cancers diagnosed. These can be important signs of a types of breast cancer, particularly Paget disease. The skin of the nipple can become red and scaly or crusted, or it may thicken. This should be discussed immediately with your doctor. Nipple retraction or inversion that is new, occurring only in one breast, or where the nipple does not come out on stimulation can be a concerning sign of breast cancer. This is completely normal and does not require assessment by a doctor. People can be born with inverted nipples, where the nipples indent inwards, although on stimulation they will generally face outwards. Skin Sparing and Subcutaneous MastectomyĬhanges in the nipple may be an important sign of breast cancer, and any new change should be assessed by a doctor immediately.Nutrition and Lifestyle after Breast Cancer.
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