For men
Inflammation of the nipple in men is generally much less common than in women, but can have similar causes (such as piercings or the rare inflammation of the mammary gland in men). Benign and malignant tumors of the male breast are also conceivable (although rare) and should be excluded, especially in the case of unilateral secretion. A milky discharge in men is also to be distinguished from a purulent discharge. This can be caused by various hormonal disorders and usually affects both nipples.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a purulent discharge from the nipple is usually made by the doctor as a gaze diagnosis. Also the underlying cause such as an inflammation of the mammary gland or infection of the nipple can usually be determined without the need for complex diagnostics. In some cases, a smear test can help to determine the exact bacterial species and antibiotics in question. In case of inflammation, parameters such as leukocytes or CRP can be determined in the laboratory. Ultrasound or other imaging diagnostics (MRT, mammography) are used to detect complications such as abscesses or to rule out the presence of a suspected tumor.
Associated symptoms
Since a purulent secretion is an indication of bacterial inflammation, there are usually other signs of inflammation besides the purulent discharge. If it is an inflammation of the nipple, it appears reddened and swollen and can be very painful. Frequently, small cracks are visible in the skin through which the bacteria causing the infection can penetrate and thus trigger an infection.
In the case of an inflammation of the entire mammary gland, there is a redness on one or both sides and painful swelling of the breast. Furthermore, the axillary lymph nodes can be painfully swollen and fever can occur. The breast is overheated and in the case of abscess formation may show a localized and fluctuating swelling.
Treatment/Therapy
If pus secretion from the nipple is caused by inflammation of the nipple, it should be treated with disinfectant compresses or ointments in combination with antibiotics. In the case of breastfeeding women, the technique of breastfeeding can also be optimized in order to minimize the mechanical stress during breastfeeding. Pain-relieving drugs such as ibuprofen are also used.The same applies to the treatment of inflammation of the mammary gland, the main components of which are also pain relief and antibiotic therapy.
Weaning is not necessary in most cases (see below). On the contrary, the breast should be emptied regularly and completely, especially in the case of inflammation of the mammary glands, since a milk congestion predisposes the patient to inflammation. This can also be achieved by temporary pumping. If complications such as a breast abscess occur, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary.
