Regardless of the type of breast problem, the goal is to rule out cancer. The way this is done varies, depending on the problem, and the patient's age and risk status. Pain is the most common breast symptom causing women to consult a family physician. Mastalgia is more common in premenopausal women than in postmenopausal women, and it is rarely a presenting symptom of breast cancer. It is known that menstrual irregularity, emotional stress and medication changes can exacerbate breast pain.
Nipple discharge is most often due to a benign process.
This common breast problem has been reported in 10 to 15 percent of women with benign breast disease and in 2.5 to 3 percent of women with breast cancer. However, using an aspiration pump, secretions can be obtained from 50 to 80 percent of women without known breast disease. The discharge may be clear, yellow, white or dark green in color and may be spontaneous, bloody, or associated with a mass. Conversely, the discharge may occur only when the breast is compressed. Patients with spontaneous or unilateral nipple discharge should be referred to a surgeon for evaluation.