Breast Unit

Periductal Mastitis

This is a relatively uncommon condition where by patients present with recurrent episodes of inflammation and infection within the breast tissue – normally behind the nipple or at the margin of the areola itself.

This condition is almost exclusively seen in women who smoke although the exact cause of the condition is not known.

Recurrent episodes of infection and inflammation can also lead to nipple inversion, to abscess formation and to the development of mammary duct fistula (an abnormal communication between a milk duct and the skin of the breast). This can be a very difficult condition to treat and patients often describe recurrent episodes of infection despite the prompt use of antibiotics. Some women will require surgery for this problem – but sadly even after surgery the problem may recur.

This condition does not increase the risk for one developing breast cancer in the future.

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