Nipple

What is duct ecstacia? Can it be left untreated? If so, does it cause any risk to the breast? How is it normally treated? Where can I see or find pictures or images for nipple duct ecstacia?

[Dennis MD]

Hi there.
Mammary duct ectasia is a benign condition characterized by inflammatory changes in the collecting ducts of the mammary gland.  
A study by Sygehus in 1993 (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8316986)  found that the mean age of occurrence was 44 years and majority of the patients are premenopausal or menopausal.  Symptoms included tumor formation, subareolar abscess, and nipple discharge.  Treatment consisted of surgical excision and adequate antibiotic coverage.
Hope this helps.