[Mammary duct ectasia in children: A case report]

Rev Chil Pediatr. 2015 Jul-Aug;86(4):287-90. doi: 10.1016/j.rchipe.2015.07.012. Epub 2015 Sep 9.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Introduction: Bloody nipple discharge is an infrequent symptom during childhood. The most common cause in this population is mammary duct ectasia (MDE), which is a benign and self-limiting condition, that is characterized by dilatation of the mammary ducts, fibrosis and periductal inflammation.

Objective: Report of a case of MDE in order to improve physicians' diagnosis accuracy and avoid aggressive studies and treatments.

Case report: Six-months old male healthy infant, exclusively breastfeeded, that visited our clinic with a lump beneath his right nipple and bloody discharge from the same nipple. An ultrasound was performed which showed a multicystic lesion suggestive of MDE. Watchful waiting was decided as treatment, with good evolution after six months of follow up.

Conclusions: The MDE is the leading cause of bloody discharge in pediatric population, being a benign condition that resolves spontaneously before nine months. The knowledge of this condition is essential so as to accurately diagnose and treat it.

Keywords: Bloody nipple discharge, Children; Breast lump; Ectasia ductal mamaria; Mammary duct ectasia; Niños; Nódulo mamario; Telorragia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Breast Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Breast Diseases / pathology
  • Exudates and Transudates / metabolism*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Mammary Glands, Human / pathology*
  • Nipples / metabolism*