Breast rash with spreading 'lines'

[Phyllie]

I have a redish-colored rash about 4 x 3 cm in size on the top of my breast.  It has spread in a single line almost all the way down one side of my breast.  A second line of spreading started but seems to have stopped.  It does not hurt, it is not raised, it does not itch, and there is no warmth. I don't recall being exposed to anything unusual (although I have a very small dog who tends to jump on me often and is always scratching me!)  I just happened to notice it forming about a week ago.  I put some Neosporin on it twice in one day, but it is still there and really didn't change much, although, it may have lightened up in color just a bit.  Do I need to see a doctor?  It should be noted that I had a breast biopsy in this same breast approximately 4 years ago that just showed some Adipose tissue.  In addition, I lost my mother at the age of 61 to breast cancer a month before I ended up needing the biopsy!  I hate to waste a co-payment if it is just some type of irritation rash that will eventually go away, but then again, I also don't want to overlook something potentially dangerous.  What should I do?

[Gif]

My breast cancer was discovered when I noticed a rash about 1 1/2 inches around my left areola when dressing.  Like yours, it was smooth, not warn to the touch.  I did then notice that when I touched the nipple the areola became hard, pale and wrinkled, where the other one was smooth and tan.  Saw my doctor right away.  He took one look at it and said, "I'm going to make an apt. with your surgeon.  A mamo was scheduled right away and the results sent to my surgeon.  He called me right away, and I was in surgery in 2 days time.  I don't mess around with unfamiliar "rashes".  Good luck to you.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Phyllie:  Skin on the breast is not unlike skin anywhere on the body and can develop rashes etc. from a variety of sources.  If the rash is not worsening and not bothering you, it may be reasonable to wait a week or so to see if it clears up.  Pay attention to any new detergent, undergarments or where the dog lands.  If it does not clear up or worsens during this time or if the breast becomes hot to touch or swollen, you should see a doctor for evaluation.