Dilated Ducts with Nipple Discharge

[shazloy]

Hello! I'm 38 years old and recently found that I've got a dilated duct on my right breast when I went for a mammogram and ultrasound.  There is also "whitish", pale yellow discharge from the right nipple on a daily basis.  I also feel pain in my right breast around the nipple area, sometimes the pain can be excruciating. Is the pain related to the dilated duct and if I go for the surgery to remove the duct, would the pain go away?  Please advise.  Thank you.

[Billie1]

This morning I was checking my breasts and I had a white-yellowish discharge on the right side. Went to the doctor at 2:00 pm and was examined, the NP was able to get a sample on a slide.  Then went to get mamogram, didn't see much.  Then ultra sound which indicated a dilated duct.  The NP had already perscribed antibiotics for the dilated duct.  To me this was really a scare and I am very relieved at the findings.  I think "shazloy"  should consider antibiotic treatment.

[shazloy]

Hi Paul,

Thanks for you comments above. My discharge has been ongoing for about a year now.  The surgeon consult I went to seems to think that it's nothing to worry about, especially the discharge and pain, and to leave the dilated duct alone until my next check-up in Aug.  What do you think?

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

These dilated ducts may indeed be the source of the pain.  The dilation may cause stimulation of pain receptors in the breasts.  However, it is important to rule out the presence of infection given the fact that this is accompanied by white-yellow discharge from the nipples.  Infection can intensify some pain symptoms.

Dilated ducts can resolve spontaneously throughout the course of the menstrual cycle.  However, if this persists for more than a month and seems to be growing, a surgeon consult may be warranted.

Regards and God bless.