Mild duct ectasia: meaning

The ducts behind the nipple carry milk. With ectasia, one or more can widen and their contents can become thicker. A scan may show this even when you have no symptoms. Possible changes include discharge, nipple tenderness, itching or the nipple turning inward.

Duct ectasia is a benign breast change, but a new breast symptom still deserves clinical review because several conditions can look similar at first. The meaning depends on your examination, age, symptoms and the imaging description.

Arrange a breast assessment if the finding was unexpected or you have discharge, a lump or persistent discomfort. Follow the imaging recommendation you were given. A breast ultrasound can help examine the ducts and nearby tissue; your clinician may advise whether other imaging or follow-up is needed.

Do not repeatedly squeeze the nipple to check for discharge, because stimulation can maintain it. Note whether discharge is spontaneous, its colour, and whether it comes from one duct or both breasts.

Seek prompt assessment for spontaneous discharge from one breast, bloody or clear discharge, a new lump, nipple inversion that is new, skin dimpling, redness or swelling. Seek urgent help if breast redness is accompanied by fever or rapidly worsening pain.

These signs do not establish a diagnosis, but they should not be ignored. Take your scan report and note when the change began.

Ask which duct is widened, whether the appearance is typical of ectasia, and whether your discharge needs a sample or further imaging. Ask what changes should trigger review and whether follow-up is recommended.