Normal female breast anatomy
Normal female breast anatomy


Subareolar abscess

Definition:
A subareolar abscess is an abscess or growth on the areolar gland, which is located underneath or beneath the areola (the circular area of darker pigmentation around the nipple) of the breast.

Alternative Names:
Abscess - areolar gland; Areolar gland abscess

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of a subareolar abscess is a blockage of the small glands or ducts under the areola, with development of an infection under the skin.

This is an uncommon problem that affects younger or middle-aged women who are not breast-feeding, unlike most types of infections in the breast. There are no known risk factors.




Review Date: 1/12/2003
Reviewed By: Daniel Rein, M.D., Obstetrician and Gynecologist, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.