Rash on Breast

[Stephanie Dudley]

I am sixteen, and I am nursing my infant son. About four weeks ago, I noticed a rash developing on my left breast. I didn't think anything of it, and just put anti inch cream to stop the itch and soreness. It slowly starting spreading and now covers my breast. There is also red pimple looking things on my niple. I went to my doctor yesterday, but he really didn't look at it, he just gave me a cream, and said that it is probably some type of fungus. But then I received an e-mail about Paget's disease, and am concered. Can you give me more information?

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Stephanie Dudley:  Paget's disease is usually a scaley, itchy area on the nipple, it does not usually start on the other breast tissue.  At your age, it is more likely that your rash is some other skin problem.  It is reasonable to try the cream and see if this helps.  If the rash worsens or does not go away in the next week or so, then you should make another appointment with your doctor.

[surgeon]

paget's disease doesn't involve the whole breast; it just involves the nipple. And the chance of it occurring in a 16 year old is just about zero. It's also pretty unlikely to be a fungus, from what you describe. If the cream doesn't clear it up soon, have it checked again; if your doctor doesn't know what it is, ask about seeing a dermatologist (skin specialist). Meanwhile, it may be annoying but it doesn't sound dangerous!!