Unusal Pigmentation

A 48 yr old woman with no family history of breast cancer and no medical history of breast abnormalities herself goes in for an annual gyn exam. Her left breast has an area that is of darker pigmentation, smooth texture, nontender, even borders with occasional itching. Mammogram in July was normal. What could this be? A fungal infection, signs of cancer, estrogen changes(she is not on any forms of estrogen and still has periods), or something else?

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear KBS:  Without examining this, it is impossible to guess.  It does not sound, from what you describe, like cancer.  One thing to note.  Just because this is on your breast, it is still skin and is subject to any skin abnormality that could occur elsewhere.  If you are concerned, you might consider seeing a dermatologist.