PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which condition is characterized by a clogged lactiferous duct resulting in nipple discharge?

1. Duct ectasia

2. Breast cyst

3. Fibroadenoma

4. Hyperplasia

The correct answer is: Duct ectasia

Duct ectasia is a condition where a lactiferous duct beneath the nipple becomes clogged, leading to potential inflammation and the buildup of fluid. This blockage can result in nipple discharge, which is often thick and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or irritation. The condition typically occurs in women who are approaching or experiencing menopause, and the discharge may be white, green, or sometimes even brown in color, depending on the contents of the duct. The blockage is usually due to a combination of factors, such as hormonal changes, age-related alterations, or the presence of thickened secretions within the duct. In contrast, breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in breast tissue but are not primarily characterized by duct obstruction. Fibroadenomas are benign tumors made up of glandular and stromal tissue and do not typically cause nipple discharge unless they are large or compress nearby structures. Hyperplasia refers to an increase in the number of cells in a tissue and does not specifically relate to duct blockage or discharge. Therefore, the defining characteristic of duct ectasia, particularly its relationship with nipple discharge due to a clogged lactiferous duct, aligns perfectly with this condition.