Differential Diagnosis for Nipple Discharge
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Intraductal papilloma: This is the most common cause of nipple discharge, particularly if the discharge is bloody or serous. Intraductal papillomas are small, benign tumors that grow in the milk ducts of the breast.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Duct ectasia: This condition involves the widening of a milk duct in the breast, which can cause nipple discharge. It is more common in older women.
- Fibrocystic disease: This is a condition characterized by lumpy or rope-like breast tissue, which can cause a variety of symptoms including nipple discharge.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Breast cancer: Although breast cancer is a less common cause of nipple discharge, it is crucial to rule out this potentially life-threatening condition. Nipple discharge can be a symptom of breast cancer, especially if it is bloody or associated with other symptoms like a lump.
- Pituitary adenoma: A pituitary adenoma can cause an overproduction of prolactin, leading to nipple discharge. This condition is less common but important to consider due to its potential impact on health.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Other rare conditions can cause nipple discharge, including thyroid disorders, certain medications, and other endocrine disorders. These are less common but should be considered if other causes have been ruled out.