What are the treatment options for intraductal papilloma?

An intraductal papilloma is a usually non-cancerous growth inside a milk duct. It may cause nipple discharge or be found during breast imaging, and some papillomas are too small to feel. Imaging shows where the area is and how it looks; tissue sampling shows the cells directly. The pathology result, whether atypical cells are present, the size and location of the lesion, and symptoms all influence the recommendation.

A breast biopsy may confirm the diagnosis or sample an area that looks concerning. If the result is reassuring and the lesion has no troubling features, imaging follow-up may be advised. Surgical removal, called breast lump excision, may be recommended for persistent discharge, a growing lesion, atypical cells, an uncertain biopsy result or disagreement between imaging and pathology. The surgeon can discuss the incision, specimen testing and expected breast shape afterward.

Arrange a breast assessment for new nipple discharge, a new lump, skin or nipple change, or a change that persists. Seek prompt care for bloody discharge, a rapidly enlarging lump, marked redness with fever, or severe pain after a biopsy or operation. These signs do not diagnose cancer, but they should not be ignored.

Ask what the imaging showed, whether the biopsy matches the scan, whether atypia was found, and why observation or excision is being recommended. Confirm when follow-up imaging is due and which symptoms need earlier review.