Ductography can aid in diagnosing the cause of an abnormal nipple discharge and is valuable in diagnosing intraductal papillomas and other conditions. In particular, discharges that are yellow, green, blue, or black in color are usually categorized as less suspicious. For example, blue or black discharges are often associated with benign cysts. Discharges that are bloody, colorless, or clear in color are categorized as more suspicious, but further investigation usually results in a benign diagnosis. However, all persistent discharges should be reported to a physician for evaluation.
Most women are able to undergo ductography.
Women who have had previous nipple surgery that has completely disconnected the nipple pores from the underlying ducts. Screening mammography and diagnostic mammography differ from ductography in that they do not use contrast injection. Ductography is a specialized procedure and is only performed at select centers and hospitals by radiologists with significant experience with ductography. Many healthcare locations that perform screening or diagnostic mammography do not perform ductography. The ductography procedure takes between 30 minutes to an hour.