Medical Central Resource

Ductal Ectasia

Monica Medynski

6/23/97

Presentation

Annual screening mammogram.

Imaging Technique

Plain X-ray

Imaging Findings

Dilated secretory duct inner, lower left subarealoar breast.

Diagnosis

Ductal Ectasia

Discussion

Ductal ectasia usually affects the major ducts in the subarealoar region. The dilated duct is filled with thick, unreasorbed secretions and cellular debris. The cause is unknown. It may be secondary to periductal inflammation. The chemically induced aseptic inflammation may produce a palpable mass. Ductal ectasia does not predispose to future malignancy. The differential diagnosis for dilated secretory duct includes: ductal ectasia, intraductal papilloma, epithelial hyperplastic lesion, and ductal carcinoma. Carcinoma is more likely for a deeper dilated duct, suspicious calcifications and asymmetry.

Submitted by: Monica Medynski,Capt,USAF,MC,Wilford Hall Medical Center
Reviewed by: Stacey Stevens,Capt,USAF,MC,Wilford Hall Medical Center

References

Kopan's Breast Imaging