Nipple Discharge & Papilloma
Nipple discharge can be a concerning symptom for many women, but it is often benign. One common cause of nipple discharge is a papilloma, a small, wart-like growth in the ducts of the breast. Understanding these conditions can help alleviate concerns and guide appropriate treatment.
What is nipple discharge?
Nipple discharge refers to any fluid that is expelled from the nipple. It can vary in colour and consistency, ranging from clear to milky, yellow, green, or even bloody. While nipple discharge can be alarming, it is not always a sign of breast cancer. It can be caused by several benign conditions, including hormonal changes, infections, and benign growths like papillomas.
What are papillomas?
Papillomas are non-cancerous (benign) growths that develop within the breast ducts. They are often small, measuring a few millimetres to a few centimetres, and can cause nipple discharge. Papillomas can occur as a single growth (solitary intraductal papilloma) or multiple growths (multiple papillomas). They are most commonly found in women aged 35 to 55.
Symptoms of papillomas
Nipple Discharge: This is the most common symptom and can be clear, bloody, or any other colour.
Lump: Some women may feel a small lump near the nipple.
Discomfort: Occasionally, papillomas can cause pain or discomfort in the breast.
Diagnosing papillomas
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and sometimes a biopsy. Your doctor will examine your breasts to check for lumps or discharge, and if necessary, a mammogram or ultrasound may help visualise the papilloma. If required, a biopsy — a sample of the tissue — may be taken to rule out cancer.
Treatment of papillomas
Treatment depends on the symptoms and findings. In many cases, papillomas that are causing significant symptoms or are suspicious may need to be surgically removed. The papilloma and a small portion of the duct may be surgically excised to alleviate symptoms and rule out malignancy, however, in cases where the papilloma is asymptomatic and benign, regular monitoring may instead be recommended.
What’s next?
Nipple discharge and papillomas are common and usually benign breast conditions. However, it’s important to seek medical advice to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Your oncoplastic breast surgeon can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss the best management options for your specific situation. If you notice any unusual nipple discharge or lumps, consult your healthcare provider promptly for peace of mind and proper care.
