Is there any problem with the dilation of the left breast duct?
Generally speaking, left breast ductal ectasia itself is a benign lesion of the mammary duct. In most cases, it does not cause obvious symptoms and does not require excessive concern. However, in some cases, it may be accompanied by inflammation or potential pathological changes, which require evaluation based on specific circumstances. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Common causes of left breast ductal ectasia include retention of mammary duct secretions, chronic inflammatory stimulation, and hormonal changes. It is commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly women. Most patients are diagnosed incidentally during imaging examinations, such as breast ultrasound or mammography, and do not experience significant discomfort. Some patients may develop symptoms such as nipple discharge, redness and swelling around the nipple, or pain, and in severe cases, may progress to periductal mastitis or abscess formation. If the ductal ectasia is isolated and asymptomatic, regular follow-up observation is sufficient. However, if accompanied by nipple discharge, a palpable mass, or recurrent inflammation, further investigations such as ductoscopy and pathological biopsy are required to exclude intraductal papilloma or breast cancer.
If symptoms arise or you are concerned about your health, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and follow the doctor's advice for appropriate treatment and prevention.