clinical features
Last reviewed 01/2018
Classically, the condition is unilateral. The earliest symptoms are those of itching, tingling and discomfort.
Later, a small patch of redness or roughening is evident on the nipple that progresses to frank erosion with red granulation tissue and bleeding. The areola is often affected. There may be a palpable lump.
Changes occur slowly. It may take 4-5 years for the nipple to be fully eroded.
Less commonly, Paget's disease is characterised by a dry, red, scaly rash that spreads widely to involve much of the breast.