How Long Does Neonatal Galactorrhea Last?

Discussion Galactorrhea is a milky discharge from the breast in a non-lactating female. Neonatal galactorrhea is sometimes called “Witch’s Milk” based on ideas from the 17th century or earlier that witches would steal the milk for use in their magic. Infant breasts were often compressed to express the fluid and prevent its collection. During the 19th century, reports of breast inflammation and even abscess were reported because of this practice and it was strongly discouraged, and continues to not be recommended today. Enlargement of neonatal breasts and galactorrhea, both for males and females, is felt to be usually due to transplacental maternal hormone stimulation and fetal hormones. This stimulation decreases rapidly after birth, but for some infants breast enlargement continues with or without galactorrhea. The ongoing cause is not totally certain. Galactorrhea is most often seen in term infants as premature infants have little breast tissue and therefore breast enlargement and/or galactorrhea are not seen usually. Nipple discharge that is usually benign is described as “bilateral, not spontaneous, and occurs with breast manipulation or stimulation, whereas suspicious discharge is usually unilateral, spontaneous and persistent. Bloody breast discharge is potentially worrisome for breast cancer however, pediatric breast cancer is exceedingly rare, and bloody discharge can be see due to stimulation and irritation. Mastitis or breast abscess ...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news