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Nipple discharge - abnormal

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Illustrations

Female Breast
Female Breast
Abnormal discharge from the nipple
Abnormal discharge from the nipple

Alternative names    Return to top

Discharge from breasts; Milk secretions; Lactation - abnormal; Witches milk; Galactorrhea

Definition    Return to top

This symptom involves abnormal discharge from the nipple(s)

Considerations    Return to top

The likelihood of nipple discharge increases with age and number of pregnancies.

While a milky nipple discharge is rare in men and in women who have never been pregnant, it does occur. When it does, it is likely to be caused by some underlying disease, particularly when accompanied by other changes in the breast(s).

It is relatively common in women who have had at least one pregnancy. A thin yellowish or milky discharge (colostrum) is normal in the final weeks of pregnancy.

The nature of the discharge can range in color, consistency, composition, and may occur on one side or both sides.

"Witch's milk" is a term used to describe nipple discharge in a newborn. The discharge is a temporary response to the increased levels of maternal hormones. Witch's milk should disappear within 2 weeks as hormone levels dissipate in the newborn.

Other nipple discharges can be bloody or purulent (containing pus), depending on the cause.

Common Causes    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

Follow provider-prescribed therapy.

Call your health care provider if    Return to top

If there is any abnormal nipple discharge, call your health care provider.

What to expect at your health care provider's office    Return to top

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting a nipple discharge in detail may include:

The physical examination will include examination of the breasts for lumps or other abnormality.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

Update Date: 5/11/2004

Updated by: Sharon Roseanne Thompson, M.D., M.P.H., Clinical Fellow, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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