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Differential Diagnosis for Bloody Nipple Discharge

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Intraductal Papilloma: This is the most common cause of bloody nipple discharge. It is a benign tumor that grows in the milk ducts of the breast and can cause bleeding, leading to bloody discharge.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A type of non-invasive breast cancer that can cause bloody nipple discharge. It is less common than intraductal papilloma but more serious due to its potential to progress to invasive cancer.
  • Breast Cancer: Invasive breast cancer can also cause bloody nipple discharge, although it is less common. The discharge may be accompanied by other symptoms like a lump or changes in the breast skin.
  • Periductal Mastitis: An inflammatory condition that affects the ducts under the nipple. It can cause bloody discharge, nipple retraction, and periareolar abscesses.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Paget's Disease of the Breast: A rare form of breast cancer that affects the skin of the nipple and, sometimes, the areola. It can cause bloody discharge, along with other symptoms like itching, redness, and a rash.
  • Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that can cause rapid changes in the breast, including redness, swelling, and warmth. Bloody nipple discharge can be a symptom, although it is not the most common presentation.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Breast Hemangioma: A benign vascular tumor that can cause bloody nipple discharge, although this is very rare.
  • Tuberculosis of the Breast: A rare condition where tuberculosis infects the breast tissue. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including bloody nipple discharge, although this is uncommon.
  • Sarcoidosis of the Breast: A condition where granulomatous inflammation affects the breast. It can cause bloody nipple discharge among other symptoms, but this is extremely rare.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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