Differential Diagnosis for Yellow Discharge from Right Nipple on Mammogram
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ductal Ectasia: This condition is characterized by the dilation of the milk ducts in the breast, often accompanied by a thick, yellow, or green discharge. It's a common cause of nipple discharge, especially in older women, and can be associated with changes visible on a mammogram.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Intraductal Papilloma: These are small, benign tumors that grow in the milk ducts of the breast. They can cause nipple discharge, which may be bloody, serous, or yellowish, depending on the location and nature of the papilloma.
- Breast Abscess or Infection: An infection of the breast tissue can lead to the formation of an abscess, which may cause a purulent discharge. While not typically yellow, the discharge can vary in color, and the infection can be associated with changes on a mammogram.
- Galactorrhea: This is a condition characterized by the spontaneous flow of milk from the nipple, unassociated with childbirth or nursing. It can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, and might appear as a yellowish discharge on mammogram due to its milky nature.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Breast Cancer (especially Ductal Carcinoma In Situ or Invasive Ductal Carcinoma): Although less common, nipple discharge can be a symptom of breast cancer. It's crucial to investigate any nipple discharge, especially if it's spontaneous, unilateral, and from a single duct, as these characteristics can be associated with underlying malignancy.
- Paget's Disease of the Breast: This rare form of breast cancer affects the skin of the nipple and, sometimes, the areola. It can cause eczema-like changes and nipple discharge, which may be yellowish or bloody.
Rare Diagnoses
- Fibrocystic Changes with Ductal Ectasia: While fibrocystic changes are common, when they are associated with ductal ectasia, they can cause a variety of symptoms, including nipple discharge.
- Granulomatous Mastitis: A rare inflammatory condition of the breast that can mimic cancer and cause nipple discharge among other symptoms.
- Syphilis or Other Infectious Diseases: In rare cases, infectious diseases like syphilis can cause breast symptoms, including nipple discharge, though this would be extremely uncommon and typically associated with other systemic symptoms.