Definition:
Mammary duct ectasia happens when a milk duct beneath the nipple becomes dilated and filled with fluid. The milk duct can then become congested or clogged with a thick, sticky substance.
Diagnosis:
Additional tests may include ultrasound, xray, and examination of nipple discharge.
Treatment:
The doctor may prescribe a 10- to 14-day course of antibiotics to treat any infection caused by mammary duct ectasia. Even if symptoms greatly improve or disappear altogether, it's important to take the entire course of medication. While waiting for the antibiotics to take effect, take a mild pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) as required for breast discomfort.
Symptoms and Signs:
Mammary duct ectasia is one of the most frequent causes of abnormal nipple discharge. Although it usually doesn't cause signs and symptoms, some women may experience: a dirty white, greenish or black nipple discharge; tenderness in the nipple or surrounding breast tissue; redness; a lump or thickening; and an inverted nipple.
Causes:
Mammary duct ectasia happens when a milk duct beneath the nipple becomes dilated and inflamed. Other causes include hormonal changes, smoking, inverted nipple, and lack of vitamin A.
