Differential Diagnosis for Breast Pain with Yellow Drainage from Nipple
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ductal Ectasia: This condition is characterized by the dilation of the milk ducts in the breast, often accompanied by symptoms such as breast pain, nipple discharge (which can be yellow, green, or black), and sometimes a palpable mass. The yellow drainage from the nipple is a classic symptom, making ductal ectasia a prime consideration.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Breast Abscess: An infection of the breast tissue that can cause pain, swelling, and sometimes drainage of pus, which might appear yellow. While more commonly associated with redness and warmth, the presence of yellow drainage could be seen in cases where the abscess communicates with the nipple ducts.
- Periductal Mastitis: Inflammation of the ducts under the nipple, often causing nipple discharge, which can be yellow or greenish, and breast pain. This condition is more common in smokers.
- Intraductal Papilloma: A benign tumor growing in the milk ducts of the breast, which can cause nipple discharge (often bloody but can be yellow) and breast pain. While typically presenting with bloody discharge, variations can occur.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Breast Cancer: Although less likely to present with yellow nipple discharge, certain types of breast cancer, such as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or invasive ductal carcinoma, can cause nipple discharge. It's crucial to investigate any new or changing nipple discharge, especially if accompanied by a mass or other symptoms.
- Paget's Disease of the Breast: A rare form of breast cancer that affects the skin of the nipple and, sometimes, the areola. Symptoms can include nipple discharge, which might be yellow or bloody, along with eczema-like changes to the nipple skin.
Rare Diagnoses
- Fibrocystic Changes with Duct Ectasia: While fibrocystic changes are common, when combined with duct ectasia, they can lead to symptoms like breast pain and yellow nipple discharge. However, this combination is less frequently encountered.
- Galactorrhea: Spontaneous milk production not associated with childbirth or nursing, which can sometimes appear as a yellowish discharge. This condition is often related to hormonal imbalances and is less commonly associated with breast pain.