Nipple discharge refers to any fluid that seeps out of the nipple of the breast.
Nipple discharge in a woman who's not pregnant or breast-feeding isn't necessarily abnormal, but it should be evaluated by a doctor. Nipple discharge in a man under any circumstances could be a problem and needs further evaluation.
One or both breasts may produce a nipple discharge, either spontaneously or when you squeeze your nipples or breasts. A nipple discharge may look milky, or it may be clear, yellow, green, brown or bloody. Nonmilk discharge comes out of your breasts through the same nipple openings that carry milk. The consistency of nipple discharge can vary — it may be thick and sticky or thin and watery.
Nipple discharge
A papilloma is a noncancerous (benign) tumor that can be associated with bloody discharge. It appears spontaneously and involves a single duct. Although the bloody discharge may resolve on its own, this situation requires evaluation with an ultrasound of the area behind the nipple and areola. If the ultrasound shows a lesion, you may need a biopsy to confirm that it's a papilloma.
Most often, nipple discharge stems from a benign condition. However, breast cancer is a possibility, especially if:
Possible causes of nipple discharge include:
- Abscess
- Breast cancer
- Breast infection
- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
- Excessive breast stimulation
- Fibroadenoma
- Fibrocystic breasts
- Galactorrhea
- Hormone imbalance
- Injury or trauma to the breast
- Intraductal papilloma
- Mammary duct ectasia
- Medication use
- Menstrual cycle hormone changes
- Paget's disease of the breast
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding
- Prolactinoma
Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Source: mayoclinic.org
