Differential Diagnosis for Sensitive Nipples
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Hormonal fluctuations: This is the most likely diagnosis, as sensitive nipples can be caused by changes in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Breastfeeding or nipple stimulation: Sensitive nipples can be a normal response to breastfeeding or frequent nipple stimulation.
- Nipple thrush: A yeast infection that can cause nipple sensitivity, especially in breastfeeding women.
- Eczema or dermatitis: Skin conditions that can cause nipple sensitivity and irritation.
- Breast cysts or fibroadenomas: Benign breast tumors that can cause nipple sensitivity.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Breast cancer: Although rare, breast cancer can cause nipple sensitivity, especially if it involves the nipple-areolar complex.
- Paget's disease of the breast: A rare form of breast cancer that can cause nipple sensitivity, itching, and discharge.
- Rare diagnoses
- Nipple adenoma: A rare benign tumor that can cause nipple sensitivity.
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dryness and sensitivity of the nipples.
- Raynaud's phenomenon: A condition that affects blood flow to the nipples, causing sensitivity and pain.