MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Subareolar abscess

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Subareolar abscess

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names Definition Causes Symptoms Exams and Tests	Treatment Outlook (Prognosis) Possible Complications When to Contact a Medical Professional References

Illustrations

Normal female breast anatomy

Alternative Names Return to top

Abscess - areolar gland; Areolar gland abscess

Definition Return to top

A subareolar abscess is an abscess or growth on the areolar gland, which is located in the breast under or below the areola (colored area around nipple).

Causes Return to top

The cause of a subareolar abscess is a blockage of the small glands or ducts under the areola, with development of an infection under the skin.

This is an uncommon problem that affects younger or middle-aged women who are not breastfeeding. There are no known risk factors.

Symptoms Return to top

Drainage and possible pus from lump beneath areolar area (colored area around nipple)
Fever
General ill-feeling
Swollen, tender lump beneath areolar area (colored area around nipple)

Exams and Tests Return to top

The health care provider will perform a breast exam. An ultrasound examination of the breast may be recommended in some cases.

Treatment Return to top

Subareolar abscesses are treated with antibiotics and by opening and draining the infected tissue. This can be done in a doctor's office with local numbing medicine (anesthesic). However, if the abscess returns, the affected glands should be surgically removed.

Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top

Prognosis is good after surgical treatment.

Possible Complications Return to top

Subareolar abscesses tend to recur until the affected glands are surgically removed.

When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top

Contact your health care provider if you develop a painful lump under the nipple or areola.

References Return to top

Iglehart JD. Smith BL. Diseases of the breast. In: Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed.Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 34.

Lester SC. The breast. In: Kumar V, Abbas AK, Fausto N, eds. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2005:chap 23.

Update Date: 10/28/2008

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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