Breast Discharge: Is It a Sign of Cancer or Normal Development?

Chest issues

Hello Doctor: About six months ago, I started noticing white discharge from my nipples, resembling peeling skin.
After removing the discharge, my nipples become itchy, and recently, I've occasionally noticed small red spots on the skin of my breasts, along with breast swelling and some hard lumps when pressed.
Previously, I heard from a health teacher that women at this stage should not have any nipple discharge or unexplained lumps in the breasts.
I would like to ask if this could be a precursor to breast cancer, or if it is a normal phenomenon related to breast development?

Amy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/07

Dr. Wu Jianting reply Breast and Thyroid

Breast tenderness and swelling can occur before and after menstruation.
Therefore, it is recommended to perform breast self-examinations about a week after the menstrual period ends.
If you still have concerns, please seek a medical evaluation.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2016/11/07

More Info

Breast discharge can be a concerning symptom for many individuals, especially when accompanied by other changes in the breast, such as pain, lumps, or skin changes. It's important to understand that breast discharge can arise from a variety of causes, and not all of them are indicative of cancer.
In your case, the white discharge from the nipple, along with itching and the appearance of small red spots on the breast skin, could be due to several factors. The discharge itself can be normal in some circumstances, especially if it is not bloody or accompanied by other alarming symptoms. For instance, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can lead to nipple discharge, and conditions such as galactorrhea (milk production unrelated to breastfeeding) can also cause similar symptoms.
However, the presence of hard lumps and breast pain, especially if they are new or have changed in character, warrants further investigation. While benign conditions such as fibrocystic breast changes or infections (like mastitis) can cause these symptoms, they can also be early signs of more serious conditions, including breast cancer.
Breast cancer can present in various ways, and while many people associate it with a lump, other symptoms such as discharge, skin changes, or persistent pain should not be overlooked. The appearance of small red spots could indicate a dermatological issue or an inflammatory process, which may or may not be related to breast tissue changes.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. This may include a clinical breast exam, imaging studies such as a mammogram or ultrasound, and possibly a biopsy if any suspicious areas are identified. These steps will help determine whether your symptoms are due to a benign condition or something that requires more urgent attention.

In summary, while some breast discharge can be normal, the combination of symptoms you are experiencing—especially the presence of hard lumps and changes in the skin—should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Early detection and diagnosis are key in managing breast health, and addressing any concerns promptly can lead to better outcomes. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your breast health.

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