Discharge from the breast

[Sylvia300]

Hi,

I am 28 years old, 10 years back a breast fibroid which was diagnosed as benign was surgically removed. I have noticed lately a light brown discharge from staining of my clothes. the quatity is just a dot and does not occur constanty..I must have had it before but did not pay attention or notice it.

Please advise whether this is breast cancer.

[Dennis MD]

Hi Sylvia.
A unilateral breast discharge is usually caused by an underlying disease condition, as opposed to a bilateral breast discharge which can be physiologic and hormonally influenced.  The cause of the unilateral breast discharge should be determined so that proper treatment can be given.  I cited some examples of disease conditions that can cause breast discharge in my previous post.  
Hope this helps.  

[Sylvia300]

When you say the cause of a unilateral breast discharge should be sought since its more likely pathologic-- what does this mean..could you please explain this is in detail.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
Breast discharge can be caused by both benign and malignant diseases involving the breast.  If the discharge involves both breasts in a non-pregnant woman, the cause is most likely secondary to hormonal changes in the body.  The cause of a unilateral breast discharge should be sought since it is most likely pathologic.  Examples of benign breast diseases that can cause breast discharge include fibrocystic disease, intraductal papilloma, and acute or chronic mastitis.  Carcinoma of the breast, breast sarcoma, and Paget’s disease of the nipple are some of the examples of malignant diseases causing breast discharge.
Take care.