Q My husband turned 55 this year. He is on regular medication for hypertension. He also discovered recently that his cholesterol level is high. However, what is most worrying is that he has lately been experiencing itchiness on his right breast. This is especially so around the nipple area. There is no discharge or swelling but it is very uncomfortable. He tries very hard not to scratch. What could this mean?
A Pruritis or itch around the breast and nipple areolar complex can be attributed to many causes. It can be due to general medical problems like an allergy or a drug reaction. Abnormal liver function can also give rise to generalised pruritis.
Local causes can be attributed to a skin infection or dermatitis. Sometimes, a relatively rare condition known as Paget's disease of the breast can occur, although it is more commonly seen in women. This is a condition that has the appearance of eczema involving the nipple (usually one side). The surrounding skin may be red or inflamed. There may be nipple discharge. Treatment for this condition would involve surgery and additional therapy may also be required.
I would advise your husband to consult a doctor for a proper assessment of his problem.
Dr Ong Wei Chen, an associate consultant with the division of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery, National University Hospital.
This article was published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times on September 11, 2008.
