Cancerbackup: Q-462
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There are many different causes for a discharge from the nipple. In the great majority of cases the underlying problem will be a benign condition, such as an infection, and not a breast cancer.
To help family doctors decide when to refer women who have a nipple discharge to a hospital Breast Clinic for further tests the NHS Breast Screening Programme has issued some guidelines. These recommend that a referral should be made in the following circumstances:
- any nipple discharge in a woman over the age of 50
- a discharge from the nipple which is bloodstained
- a discharge from the nipple which is sufficient to stain clothing
- if there is any distortion or deformity of the nipple
- if there is a rash (eczema) on the nipple.
If you feel that any of these conditions apply to your problem then it would be quite right to ask your doctor for a hospital appointment.
Content last reviewed: 14 April 2004
Page last modified: 27 May 2003
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