|
|
Nipple Discharge - Abnormal
Alternate Names : Discharge from Breasts, Galactorrhea, Lactation - Abnormal, Milk Secretions, Witches Milk
Definition This symptom involves abnormal discharge from the nipple(s)
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview & Considerations
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 more 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.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Overview & Considerations
• Common Causes
• Home Care & Treatment
• Call your Health Care Provider if
• What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Breast Infection
• Pituitary Tumor
• Prolactinoma
Tests & Exams
• Breast Biopsy
• Cranial CT Scan
• Hormone Levels
• Mammography
• Prolactin
• Transillumination
• Ultrasound
Other Topics
• Breast Lump
• Breast Pain
• Physical Examination
Review Date : 2/7/2002
Reviewed By : Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
