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Annals of Surgical Oncology
Published in: Annals of Surgical Oncology 10/2015

01-10-2015 | Breast Oncology

A Review of Anatomy, Physiology, and Benign Pathology of the Nipple

Authors: Kimberly Stone, MD, Amanda Wheeler, MD

Published in: Annals of Surgical Oncology | Issue 10/2015

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Abstract

The nipple and areola are pigmented areas of modified skin that connect with the underlying gland of the breast via ducts. The fairly common congenital anomalies of the nipple include inversion, clefts, and supernumerary nipples. The anatomy of the nipple areolar complex is discussed as a foundation to review anatomical variants, and the physiologic development of the nipple, including changes in puberty and pregnancy, as well as the basis of normal physiologic discharge, are addressed. Skin conditions affecting the nipple include eczema, which, while similar to eczema occurring elsewhere on the body, poses unique aspects in terms of diagnosis and treatment. This article concludes with discussion on the benign abnormalities that develop within the nipple, including intraductal papilloma and nipple adenoma.
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Metadata
Title
A Review of Anatomy, Physiology, and Benign Pathology of the Nipple
Authors
Kimberly Stone, MD
Amanda Wheeler, MD
Publication date
01-10-2015
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Annals of Surgical Oncology / Issue 10/2015
Print ISSN: 1068-9265
Electronic ISSN: 1534-4681
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-015-4760-4

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