Differential Diagnosis for Discharge from Left Nipple
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Benign nipple discharge: This is the most common cause of nipple discharge and can be due to various factors such as ductal ectasia, intraductal papilloma, or hormonal influences. It is often bilateral but can be unilateral, and the discharge is usually milky, serous, or greenish in color.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Intraductal papilloma: A small, benign tumor that grows in the milk ducts of the breast, often causing a bloody or serous discharge from a single nipple.
- Ductal ectasia: A condition where the milk ducts beneath the nipple become widened, leading to a thick, greenish, or black discharge.
- Breast infection or abscess: An infection of the breast tissue, which can cause a purulent discharge from the nipple.
- Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or with certain medications, can lead to nipple discharge.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Breast cancer: Although less common, breast cancer can cause nipple discharge, especially if it involves the ducts. It is crucial to investigate any unilateral, spontaneous, or bloody discharge.
- Pituitary tumor: A tumor in the pituitary gland can lead to an overproduction of prolactin, causing galactorrhea (milk production not associated with childbirth or breastfeeding), which can manifest as a milky discharge from one or both nipples.
Rare Diagnoses
- Thyroid disorders: Certain thyroid conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, can lead to nipple discharge due to hormonal imbalances.
- Neurofibromatosis: A genetic disorder that can cause tumors to form on nerve tissue, including in the breast, potentially leading to nipple discharge.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the breast, leading to nipple discharge in rare cases.