Breast Duct Papilloma

What is a breast duct papilloma?

A breast duct papilloma is a benign (noncancerous) growth in a breast milk duct. It is the most common cause of spontaneous discharge from the nipple. This discharge may be clear or bloody. A breast duct papilloma also may produce a small lump that you can feel next to or behind the nipple. A breast duct papilloma may not be identified on routine screening mammography.

A breast duct papilloma is generally a solitary tumor that is found most often in the milk ducts located near the nipple. Breast duct papillomas are typically found in women between the ages of 35 and 55.

A single breast duct papilloma does not raise the risk of developing breast cancer. If you have multiple papillomas, or develop a breast duct papilloma that contains certain cellular changes, you may have an increased breast cancer risk. Treatment is typically surgical removal and examination of the tissue to be certain that breast cancer is not present.

Seek prompt medical care if you notice any nipple discharge from either of your breasts, or if you notice a breast lump.