Painful Growths on the Nipple: Causes and Solutions

There is a growth of granulation tissue on the nipple?

Hello doctor, a few days ago a small flesh-colored bump suddenly appeared on my nipple.
It's round and protrudes, causing pain when it rubs against my clothing or when touched, but it doesn't hurt when left alone.
The color is similar to that of my nipple, and it appeared during my menstrual period.
What could this be? Can I leave it alone? Thank you.

ann, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/07/08

Dr. Zai Yunsheng reply Surgery

The nipple is part of the skin, and any skin condition can occur.
It is recommended to first consult a dermatologist for examination.
If there are no issues, you may follow up with a breast surgeon for further treatment.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2013/07/08

More Info

When it comes to the sudden appearance of a small growth on the nipple, particularly one that is painful when touched or rubbed against clothing, it is essential to consider several potential causes. The growth you describe could be a number of things, including but not limited to a benign condition such as a papilloma, a seborrheic keratosis, or even a cyst. In some cases, it could also be related to hormonal changes, especially if it coincides with your menstrual cycle.

1. Hormonal Influence: The menstrual cycle can lead to various changes in breast tissue due to fluctuations in hormone levels. This can sometimes result in the formation of small growths or changes in existing tissue. If the growth appeared around the time of your period, it could be related to these hormonal shifts.

2. Papillomas: These are benign tumors that can occur in the ducts of the breast. They may present as small, round, and sometimes painful growths. While they are generally not serious, they can cause discomfort and may require monitoring or removal if they cause significant pain or other symptoms.

3. Seborrheic Keratosis: This is a common, non-cancerous skin growth that can appear anywhere on the body, including the nipple area. They are usually painless but can become irritated if they rub against clothing.

4. Cysts: Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast tissue. They can be tender, especially in relation to hormonal changes, and may feel like a lump.

5. Infection or Inflammation: If the growth is accompanied by redness, warmth, or discharge, it could indicate an infection or inflammatory condition, such as mastitis, which would require medical attention.

What to Do Next
Given that the growth is painful and has appeared suddenly, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist or a breast specialist. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to better understand the nature of the growth. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out any serious conditions.

Self-Care and Monitoring
While waiting for your appointment, you can take some self-care measures:
- Avoid Irritation: Try to wear loose-fitting clothing to minimize friction against the growth.

- Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the growth for any changes in size, color, or pain level. If it starts to bleed, change color, or become increasingly painful, seek medical attention sooner.

Conclusion
In summary, while the growth on your nipple may not be a cause for immediate concern, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions and to determine the best course of action. Early evaluation can provide peace of mind and ensure that any necessary treatment is initiated promptly.

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