Intraductal Papilloma of the Breast

Intraductal papilloma is a noncancerous condition that experts believe may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. For this reason, it is usually treated surgically to eliminate the possibility that the benign mass could transform into cancer in the future.

Tampa General Hospital’s acclaimed Breast Cancer Center offers the latest diagnostic and treatment options for benign and cancerous breast conditions. Firmly positioned among the top 10% of hospitals in the nation, TGH has earned the notable “High Performing in Cancer” designation from U.S. News & World Report for 2023-24.

What Are Papillomas?

Papillomas are small, wart-like growths that can develop in the milk ducts of the breast. The lumps, which usually form near the nipple and grow outward, are composed of fibrovascular tissue, which consists of glandular tissue, fibrous tissue and blood vessels.

What Causes Intraductal Papilloma?

The precise causes of intraductal papilloma of the breast are unknown. The condition is most often diagnosed in women between the ages of 35 and 55. Men are affected, too, though less frequently. Scientists have confirmed that the lumps form when healthy cells in a milk duct grow faster than normal. The excess cells then build up, bind together and form a mass.

Intraductal Papilloma Symptoms

An intraductal papilloma may create a small lump behind or near the nipple. Sometimes, the lump can be felt. Other symptoms can include breast pain and unusual nipple discharge, which may be clear or bloody.

How Is Intraductal Papilloma Diagnosed?

In some cases, an intraductal papilloma is diagnosed after a physician orders follow-up testing of a suspicious area identified in a mammogram. Additionally, if there is unusual nipple discharge, a physician may order a ductogram (galactogram) to determine the cause. This imaging procedure involves injecting contrast dye into the affected breast before a mammogram. The milk ducts will then show up with heightened clarity in the resulting images, which may reveal a possible intraductal papilloma.

If a suspected papilloma is large enough to be felt or seen in images, a biopsy may be performed so that a tissue sample can be examined by a pathologist for evidence of cancer. When viewed under a microscope, papillomas often have distinctive finger-like projections.

Sclerosing Intraductal Papilloma

A subtype of intraductal papilloma of the breast, sclerosing papilloma can be identified only when the abnormal tissue is examined under a microscope. The tissue may show prominent hardening (sclerosis) and may contain entrapped glands.

Do Breast Papillomas Need to Be Removed?

Most intraductal papillomas are noncancerous. However, it is not always possible to confirm that a papilloma is benign with a needle biopsy. In that case, the entire growth may be removed and evaluated by a pathologist, who can provide a definitive diagnosis.

Intraductal Papilloma Treatment

Surgery is usually the preferred method of treatment for an intraductal papilloma. The procedure is similar to a lumpectomy. After making a small incision in the circular edge of the areola, the surgeon removes the growth and all or part of the affected milk duct so a comprehensive tissue biopsy can be performed by a pathologist. When the procedure is complete, the surgeon closes the incision with surgical glue or stitches.

Intraductal Papilloma Removal Recovery Time

Surgery to remove an intraductal papilloma is usually performed under general anesthesia. While some patients stay in the hospital overnight, others go home on the same day as their procedure. The recovery time can vary based on several unique factors, including the number, location and size of the papillomas removed. Most patients take a few days off from work and gradually resume their daily activities as comfort allows. Any post-surgical pain and bruising typically resolve within a few weeks.

Receive World-Class Care at TGH

TGH’s Breast Cancer Center is among the highest-volume programs of its kind in Florida. Our board-certified breast surgeons are skilled and experienced in performing the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques to remove intraductal papillomas and other breast abnormalities. If you would like to talk with an expert on our team, contact us at (800) 844-4554 to request an appointment.