Mammary duct ectasia
Mammary duct ectasia occurs when the duct near the nipple becomes enlarged, thickened, and filled with fluid. A milk duct may become clogged and develop a sticky, thick plug This condition is often asymptomatic, but some women have nipple discharge, breast pain, or inflammation of a blocked duct (periductal mastitis).
Mammary duct ectasia occurs most often in perimenopausal women, around the age of 45-55, although it can also occur after menopause. This condition can sometimes be corrected with treatment If symptoms recur, you may need antibiotics or surgery to remove the duct
Frequent examination of breast problems is necessary, although ductal ectasia and periductal mastitis do not increase the risk of breast cancer.
The mammary gland is made up of connective tissues, including the mammary ducts that carry milk to the nipples. Mammary duct ectasia occurs when the duct becomes enlarged, clogged with sticky, thick material, and sometimes becomes inflamed.
Experts do not know exactly what causes ectasia The following factors are likely to be involved:
- Age-related changes in the mammary gland As we age, the composition of the breast changes and the glandular tissue becomes more fatty (involution). These changes sometimes lead to blockage of the duct and associated inflammation
- Smoking Tobacco use is associated with dilation of the ducts, leading to inflammation and sometimes ductal ectasia.
- Inversion of the nipple An inverted nipple sometimes blocks the ducts, causing inflammation and infection An inverted nipple may also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as breast cancer
Mammary duct ectasia is often asymptomatic If you have signs and symptoms, you may experience:
- White, green, or black discharge from one or both nipples
- Soreness in and around the nipple
- Redness
- Lumps and thickening around the blocked duct
- The nipple Signs and symptoms associated with ectasia may resolve on their own
When to See Your Doctor Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts, such as lumps, discharge, nipple inversion, etc. Sh See your doctor if you have any symptoms that worry you
