Accessory breast

Accessory breast
Synonyms	Supernumerary breast, polymastia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Additional breast tissue, which may include nipple and areola
Complications	Mastitis, breast cancer
Onset	Congenital
Duration	Lifelong
Types	N/A
Causes	Developmental anomaly
Risks	Family history, genetic factors
Diagnosis	Physical examination, Ultrasound, Mammography
Differential diagnosis	Lipoma, Fibroadenoma, Cyst
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Surgical removal, monitoring
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	1-6% of the population
Deaths	N/A

Polymastia in a Japanese individual

Illustration of a woman with accessory breast tissue

An accessory breast, also known as polymastia, is a condition where additional breast tissue is present in addition to the normal pair of breasts. This condition can occur in both males and females, although it is more commonly observed in females. Accessory breast tissue can develop anywhere along the "milk line," which extends from the armpits to the groin.

Development

Accessory breast tissue develops during embryonic development. During the sixth week of gestation, the mammary ridges, or "milk lines," form and extend from the axilla to the groin. Normally, these ridges regress except at the site of the future breasts. However, in cases of accessory breast tissue, some of this tissue persists and can develop into additional breast tissue.

Clinical Presentation

Accessory breast tissue can present in various forms, ranging from a small amount of tissue to fully developed additional breasts. It may include nipple and areola structures, or it may consist solely of glandular tissue. The most common location for accessory breast tissue is in the axillary region, but it can occur anywhere along the milk line.

Symptoms and Complications

While accessory breast tissue is often asymptomatic, it can sometimes cause discomfort, especially during menstruation or pregnancy, when hormonal changes can lead to swelling and tenderness. In some cases, accessory breast tissue can develop breast cancer, similar to normal breast tissue.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of accessory breast tissue is typically made through physical examination and imaging studies such as ultrasound or mammography. These imaging techniques help differentiate accessory breast tissue from other conditions such as lipomas or lymphadenopathy.

Treatment

Treatment for accessory breast tissue is not always necessary unless it causes symptoms or cosmetic concerns. Surgical removal is the most common treatment option for symptomatic or bothersome accessory breast tissue. This procedure is usually straightforward and involves excising the excess tissue.

Related pages

• Breast development
• Breast cancer
• Mammary gland
• Gynecomastia