Mammary Duct Ectasia

Diagnosis

Mammary duct ectasia is usually diagnosed based on the symptoms you describe and the findings from a physical breast exam. Your healthcare professional carefully examines the breasts and nipples to check for lumps, tenderness or nipple discharge. To confirm the diagnosis or rule out other breast conditions, additional tests may be recommended.

An ultrasound of the nipple and areola is often used to look closely at the milk ducts beneath the nipple. This test uses sound waves to create detailed images of breast tissue and can help identify widened or inflamed ducts.

A mammogram may also be performed. This X-ray of the breast helps your healthcare professional examine breast tissue in more detail. If an area needs closer evaluation, a diagnostic mammogram may be done, which provides more detailed images than a routine screening mammogram.

Magnetic resonance imaging, also known as MRI, may be used when other imaging tests don’t provide enough information. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the breast.

If a breast lump is present, a biopsy may be recommended. A biopsy involves removing a small sample of breast tissue using a needle inserted through the skin. The tissue sample is examined under a microscope to determine whether the cells are cancerous or noncancerous.

Treatment

Mammary duct ectasia does not always require treatment, especially if symptoms are mild or go away on their own. When symptoms are uncomfortable or persistent, treatment focuses on relief and preventing complications.

Antibiotics may be prescribed if there is an infection related to mammary duct ectasia. These are usually taken for 10 to 14 days. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve early.

Pain medicine can help manage breast discomfort. Mild pain relievers may be used as needed, following your healthcare professional’s recommendation.

Surgery is rarely needed. If an abscess develops and does not improve with antibiotics, surgery may be required to remove the affected milk duct. This procedure is usually done through a small cut near the nipple.

Self care

In addition to medical treatment, self-care steps may help relieve symptoms and improve comfort.

You may find relief by using warm compresses on the affected breast to help ease pain and inflammation.

Breast pads or nursing pads can be used to absorb nipple discharge and prevent it from leaking onto clothing.

Wearing a supportive, well-fitting bra can reduce breast discomfort and help keep breast pads in place.

Sleeping on the side opposite the affected breast can help reduce pressure, swelling and pain.

Stopping smoking is important, as smoking can make infections harder to treat and increase the risk of recurring problems or abscess formation.

Try not to squeeze, rub or frequently touch your nipples. Gentle care helps reduce irritation and persistent nipple discharge.

Preparing for your appointment

If you notice a new breast lump, nipple discharge or other changes, you’ll usually see a member of your primary healthcare team first. Based on the exam or imaging results, you may be referred to a breast health specialist.

Being prepared can help you get the most out of your appointment. Before your visit, it can be helpful to:

• Write down all your symptoms, even those that seem unrelated

• Review important personal information, including recent life changes or sources of stress

• Make a list of all medicines, vitamins and supplements you take

• Write down questions you want to ask your healthcare professional

Common questions about mammary duct ectasia may include what is causing your symptoms, whether the condition may improve on its own, what treatment options are available, and what self-care steps you can take at home.

What to expect from your doctor

During your visit, your healthcare professional may ask detailed questions to better understand your condition. These may include how long you’ve had symptoms, whether they’ve changed over time, the presence and severity of breast pain, details about nipple discharge, and whether one or both breasts are affected.

You may also be asked about fever, past mammograms, any previous breast conditions or biopsies, family history of breast cancer, and what makes your symptoms better or worse. This information helps guide diagnosis and treatment decisions.