Black Growths Near the Nipple: Causes and Concerns - Breast and Thyroid

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When it comes to black growths near the nipple, particularly in the context of your symptoms—black lesions that bleed when picked at and occasional itching—there are several potential causes to consider. While it’s understandable to be concerned about the possibility of cancer, it’s important to explore other benign conditions that could be responsible for your symptoms.

1. Seborrheic Keratosis: This is a common benign skin growth that can appear as a black or brown lesion. They are often raised and can be itchy. While they are harmless, they can sometimes be mistaken for more serious conditions.

2. Skin Tags: These are small, benign growths that can appear on various parts of the body, including near the nipple. They can be pigmented and may bleed if irritated or pulled.

3. Melanocytic Nevi (Moles): These are pigmented lesions that can appear anywhere on the body, including the nipple area. They are usually benign but should be monitored for any changes in size, shape, or color.

4. Paget’s Disease of the Nipple: This is a rare form of breast cancer that typically presents with changes in the skin of the nipple and areola, including itching, redness, and flaking. It’s crucial to differentiate this from benign conditions, especially if there are any changes in the appearance of the nipple or discharge.

5. Infections or Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as folliculitis or dermatitis can cause itching and irritation around the nipple area, leading to secondary lesions from scratching.

Given that you have had the lesion treated with cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen) and it has recurred, it is advisable to follow up with a dermatologist or a breast specialist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend a biopsy to rule out any malignant changes, especially if there are any concerning features such as rapid growth, changes in color, or persistent symptoms.


Recommendations:
- Avoid Picking: It’s essential to avoid picking at the lesion, as this can lead to bleeding and potential infection.

- Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the growth for any changes in size, shape, color, or if it starts to cause more discomfort.

- Seek Professional Evaluation: Given your history and the recurrence of the lesion, a professional evaluation is crucial. A dermatologist can provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.


Conclusion:
While the possibility of cancer cannot be entirely ruled out without further investigation, many skin lesions are benign and treatable. It’s important to address your concerns with a healthcare provider who can perform a physical examination and possibly conduct further tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Early detection and treatment are key to managing any potential issues effectively.