Mammary Duct Ectasia

Mammary duct ectasia (or duct ectasia) is a noncancerous breast condition causing inflammation (swelling) and thickening of your milk ducts. Your breasts are made up of lobules (glands that make milk), ducts (tubes that carry milk to your nipple) and other tissues. As you age, your milk ducts shorten and widen. This causes your breasts to become sore or for fluid to build up and clog your duct. Most people recover without treatment, but if symptoms don’t go away, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics or remove the affected duct with surgery.

Who is likely to have mammary duct ectasia?

Anyone assigned female at birth (AFAB) can have mammary duct ectasia. The condition is more common among women and people AFAB who are approaching menopause (around age 50 or older). It can also occur after menopause. Duct ectasia can happen in men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB), but this is rare.

Is mammary duct ectasia cancerous?

No, it’s noncancerous (benign) and doesn’t increase your risk for developing breast cancer. However, some symptoms of duct ectasia are associated with symptoms of breast cancer. It’s a good idea to discuss any changes in your breasts with your healthcare provider.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

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Diagnosis & treatment

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