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Subareolar abscessDefinitionA 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). Alternative NamesAbscess - areolar gland; Areolar gland abscess CausesThe 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
Exams and TestsThe health care provider will perform a breast exam. An ultrasound examination of the breast may be recommended in some cases. TreatmentSubareolar 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)Prognosis is good after surgical treatment. Possible ComplicationsSubareolar abscesses tend to recur until the affected glands are surgically removed. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalContact your health care provider if you develop a painful lump under the nipple or areola. ReferencesIglehart 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.
Review Date:
10/28/2008 Reviewed 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. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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