Intraductal papilloma is a benign breast disease that can cause nipple discharge and small lumps. Diagnosis may require a biopsy or ductogram, and surgery may be necessary if the lump grows or causes discomfort. Regular self-examinations and mammography tests are recommended for early detection.
An intraductal papilloma is a small tumor that can form in the milk ducts of the breast. This is a completely benign breast disease and does not normally increase the risks of cancer. In some women, multiple papillomas occurring at the same time can signal a slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer, particularly if there is a family history of breast cancer.
These papillomas form when fibrous tissue begins to overgrow. They usually stay small. One of the most obvious symptoms of intraductal papilloma is nipple discharge from a milk duct. Sometimes a small lump may be felt under the nipple, but this is not always the case, depending on the location of the lump. A breast may enlarge slightly if the lump grows significantly and some pain may be felt in the breast.
Diagnosing an intraductal papilloma sometimes requires certain exclusion tests to rule out the possibility of cancer. These could include a breast biopsy or a ductogram. During the biopsy, a needle is inserted into the lump to extract a small sample of fluid or tissue. A ductogram involves an injection of high-contrast dye into the duct, followed by an X-ray. Using the dye in this way allows the lump to show up on an X-ray.
Treatment for an intraductal papilloma isn’t always required. In some cases the lump is very small and does not get bigger. As long as there are no complications, the lump can safely be left in place. If the lump grows large, becomes uncomfortable or painful, or can interfere with milk production or breastfeeding, you may need surgery to remove it.
Surgery to remove a papilloma is usually a simple procedure. During the surgery, a small incision is made near the areola, through which the papilloma and associated milk duct are removed. Surgery usually doesn’t cause serious side effects, but sometimes the wound site can bleed or become infected. In most cases the surgery does not leave a detectable scar.
There is no preventive treatment for intraductal papilloma. Also, because there are no known causes or risk factors, it is nearly impossible to assess relative risk in women of different ages or lifestyles. A regular breast self-examination, along with regular mammography tests for older women, is the best way to ensure that a papilloma or other type of benign breast lump can be diagnosed and treated quickly.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
