Nipple discharge

Nipple discharge is the release of fluid from the nipples of the breasts. Although it is considered normal in a wide variety of circumstances it is the third major reason involving the breasts for which women seek medical attention, after breast lumps and breast pain. It is also known to occur in adolescent boys and girls going through puberty. Discharge often is the result of stimulation of the breasts or by irritation through clothing.

Types of discharge

There are many different types of discharges. Some associations include:

• cloudy white color—most common, can be galactorrhea
• clear or light white -- pregnancy
• red—contains blood—most often due to breast infection or intraductal papillomas, but can be breast cancer
• whitish-yellow, yellow, or green -- pus due to infection

See also

• Prolactinoma/Hyperprolactinaemia
• Witch's milk
• Galactorrhea

External links

• Nipple discharge: Rarely a sign of serious disease