an intraductal papilloma is a non-cancerous (benign) small growth inside a milk duct in the breast. it may appear on the skin near the nipple as a growth that looks like a wart.
single intraductal papillomas often occur in women nearing menopause. they can produce a bloody or sticky nipple discharge. multiple intraductal papillomas are more likely to occur in younger women. they may be found in both breasts and are more likely to cause a lump than nipple discharge.
intraductal papillomas usually are first suspected from an evaluation of symptoms and a breast exam. a diagnosis can be confirmed with:
- mammogram (breast x-ray). women younger than 35 may have a ultrasound of the breast rather than a mammogram.
- laboratory exam of cells from the growth. cells from the intraductal papilloma may be collected using a small needle and syringe (fine-needle aspiration) or by taking a tissue sample (core biopsy).
it is important to have an intraductal papilloma, as well as any other breast changes, evaluated and closely monitored by a doctor. you may not need treatment. but an intraductal papilloma and the affected duct can be removed if symptoms do not go away or are bothersome.