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Nipple discharge

Authoring team

Nippple discharge is a common presenting symptom in women of reproductive age

  • it is the third most common breast complaint after breast pain and breast mass
  • most often caused by a benign condition (around 97% of cases) (1,2)

Nipple discharge may be

  • physiological
    • usually bilateral and involves multiple ducts
    • associated with nipple stimulation or breast compression
    • milky nipple discharge can be due to
      • pregnancy - may persist for up to one year postpartum or after cessation of breastfeeding
      • galactorrhea – in non pregnant status, caused by an endocrinopathy
  • pathological
    • is usually spontaneous and unilateral
    • may be associated with a mass or new skin changes
    • appearance may be bloody, serous, green or black in colour
    • most common causes are
      • intraductal papilloma (48%)
      • ductal ectasia (15%–20%)
      • carcinoma (10%–15%) (1,2,3)

Reference:

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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