conditions associated with blocked duct

Last reviewed 01/2018

• appearance of a white spot at the end of the nipple
  • is usually about 1 mm in diameter
  • overgrowth of epithelium (which forms a blister), or an accumulation of fatty or particulate material is considered to be the cause
  • can be very painful during suckling
  • removal of the white spot by use of a sterile needle or rubbing with a towel results in quick relief of the obstruction (1)
    
    
• galactocoele
  • is a milk filled cyst which presents as smooth rounded swelling in the breast
  • initially the cyst is filled with pure milk and later with the absorption of fluid it becomes thicker creamy
  • there can be a milky fluid discharge if the swelling is pressed
  • diagnosis is made by aspiration or ultrasound o milk may be aspirated but repeated aspirations may be needed as the cyst usually fills up again after some days
  • surgical removal of a galactocoele under local anaesthesia can be carried out (1)

Reference:

• 1. World Health Organisation (WHO) 2000. Mastitis. Causes and management