Woman With Rare condition Has Armpits That Leak Milk
A 35-year-old woman from the Philippines has a remarkably unusual medical condition: her armpits produce breast milk. The case was recently documented by dermatologists at the University of the Philippines in the journal JAAD Case Reports.
The woman first noticed a difference in her armpits approximately 15 years ago. Following her first pregnancy, she experienced swelling and the production of “milky secretions from the overlying hair follicles” in both armpits. This phenomenon resolved after she stopped breastfeeding, but recurred with each subsequent pregnancy, prompting her to seek medical evaluation. She reported no other symptoms like redness, but noted the swelling worsened with each child.
Doctors diagnosed the woman with ectopic breast tissue – a condition where breast tissue develops in locations other than the chest. While present from birth, this tissue typically remains unnoticed until hormonal changes, such as those occurring during puberty or pregnancy, stimulate its advancement. In this case, the ectopic tissue did not include areolas or nipples.
Ectopic breast tissue is a rare occurrence, affecting an estimated 2% to 6% of women and 1% to 3% of men. Most cases are sporadic, tho around 6% have a genetic link.
While the doctors noted a potential for ectopic breast tissue to develop both benign and malignant conditions, initial tests revealed no immediate cause for concern. As the milk production ceased after each breastfeeding period, the woman opted against surgical removal of the tissue.
The medical team recommends regular follow-up appointments and continued routine breast cancer screenings. “Proper work-up is prudent due to its potential for developing benign and malignant breast conditions,” they wrote. “Management is conservative unless symptomatic and with cosmetic concerns.”
