Nipple Leakage

I am 42 years old and over the past 3 or 4 months I have had a bloody fluid leaking from my right breast.  I went to my doctor.  My mammogram and ultrasound came back "no signs of malignancy".  They were not able to do the ductogram.  I'm having 1/4 of the milk ducts removed from that breast.  What are the chances of cancer?  Am I more prone to cancer now?  There is no history in my family.  I also have a dull type of pain occassionaly close to my right under arm.  Could the 2 be related?

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

I understand your concern.  One of the most common causes of bloody nipple discharge is called breast duct papilloma.  These are benign lesions located along the ducts and the only way to treat this is through surgical removal.  The pain on your right underarm may or may not be related.  This could represent muscle and soft tissue stress from work.  There is no direct evidence that links papillomas with eventual development of breast cancer but I suggest that you have regular follow ups with your doctor along with screening mammograms at least annually so that any other changes can be detected.  Also, be sure to report to your doctor any changes that may occur in your breast such as lumps, further discharge, swelling and other skin changes.  

I hope the operation would be as uneventful as possible. Regards and God bless.