Breast Surgery for Nipple Discharge
Author Information
Author(s): Dillon Mary F, Mohd Nazri Shah R, Nasir Shaaira, McDermott Enda W, Evoy Denis, Crotty Thomas B, O'Higgins Niall, Hill Arnold DK
Primary Institution: St Vincent's University Hospital
Hypothesis
Can pre-operative factors identify patients at risk of breast carcinoma associated with nipple discharge?
Conclusion
Microdochectomy or major duct excision for nipple discharge results in a low rate of malignancy.
Supporting Evidence
- 4.3% of patients were diagnosed with carcinoma on excision.
- No patient with non-bloody discharge had malignancy on excision.
- The study included 211 patients over a 14-year period.
Takeaway
Doctors found that most women with nipple discharge don't have breast cancer, so they might not need surgery.
Methodology
Patients who underwent microdochectomy or subareolar exploration for nipple discharge were assessed over a 14-year period.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in patient selection and reliance on historical data.
Limitations
The study may not represent all patients with nipple discharge, as it focused on those undergoing surgery.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 49 years, with 44% of malignancy cases being premenopausal.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.024
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website