Nipple Rash / Nipple Dermatitis
Nipple dermatits occurs when the skin around the nipple- areolar is itchy, scaly and associated with an irritated rash. This can occur in one or both nipples.
Paget’s disease of nipple is a rare form for breast cancer of the nipple also presents with symptoms and signs of nipple rash / eczema
Causes of Nipple Rash / Dermatitis
- Irritation from clothing, soaps, laundry detergents, lotions
- Known case of allergies and general skin eczema
Differentiate between Paget’s Disease of Nipple and Nipple Dermatitis
Nipple Dermatitis |
Paget’s Disease of Nipple |
|
Involvement |
Usually bilateral |
Often only unilateral |
History of allergies |
Yes |
No |
Respond to topical steroids |
Yes |
No |
Itching |
Yes |
No |
Underlying lump |
Not present |
Yes |
Nipple |
Intact and normal |
Can be destroyed or distorted |
Investigation
- Breast Imaging – mammogram and ultrasound
- Breast biopsy – FNAC or Core biopsy on obvious breast lump
- Skin biopsy – to rule out pagets disease of the nipple
Management
- Standard treatment of nipple rash / skin dermatitis
- Antihistamine
- Moisturize and apply lotion.
- Avoid irritants
- Topical steroids
- Avoid food allergens