Patient's question:
Doctor:Hello! I had my period on the 23rd of last month, but on the 18th of this month while taking a bath, I noticed my breasts were very sore. I squeezed them hard with my hands, and unexpectedly, a little milky liquid came out from my nipple. I had an abortion once two years ago and in the first half of this year, and I have never experienced anything like this before. What could be the reason for this? I’m very worried. Please help me ease my concerns!
Doctor's answer:
During non-pregnancy and non-lactation periods, fluid leakage from the nipple is referred to as nipple discharge. Nipple discharge is one of the common symptoms of breast diseases. Statistics show that patients presenting with nipple discharge as the primary symptom account for 3% to 14% of breast disease cases, with a prevalence rate second only to breast lumps and breast pain. If the nipple discharge is unilateral, it is often associated with the following breast conditions:1. Duct ectasia
2. Intraductal papilloma
3. Breast cystic hyperplasia
4. Breast cancer.
In summary, nipple discharge is an important breast symptom, with 10% to 15% of cases potentially being breast cancer. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly for symptoms and undergo a nipple discharge smear cytology examination. Near-infrared breast scanning has a positive diagnostic rate of 80% to 95% for lesions in the areola ducts. Ultrasound and mammography also offer comparable accuracy. Selective lesion ductography is a common diagnostic method for nipple discharge, providing significant value in differentiating between benign and malignant conditions. It can also help physicians accurately locate the surgical excision area.