Galactocoeles are benign breast lumps filled with milk or a milk-like substance. They commonly occur in lactating women, but can also occur in women who have recently stopped breastfeeding.
Causes
Several factors can cause milk ducts to become blocked, resulting in galactocoeles. These factors include:
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Infrequent breastfeeding or incomplete emptying can lead to milk stasis.
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Physical obstruction of the milk ducts caused by thickened milk or cellular debris.
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A sudden cessation of breastfeeding can cause milk stasis and ductal obstruction.
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Physical trauma to the breast can disrupt normal milk production.
Symptoms
Galactocoele symptoms typically include:
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Often movable under the skin, breast lumps are painless, smooth, and round.
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Breastfeeding and milk expression can increase the lump's size over time.
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Women may experience mild tenderness or discomfort in the affected area.
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In contrast to infections, galactocoeles usually do not cause redness, warmth, or significant pain.
Diagnosis
A galactocoele can be diagnosed in several ways:
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To assess the lump's characteristics, a healthcare provider will conduct a clinical examination.
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In ultrasound imaging, a galactocoele is typically seen as a well-defined, fluid-filled cyst, which can help distinguish it from other types of breast lumps.
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If necessary, the healthcare provider may perform needle aspiration to extract fluid from the lump. It is the presence of a milky substance that confirms the diagnosis of galactocoele.
Treatment
Galactocoele can be treated in a variety of ways depending on the severity of symptoms and the patient's preferences:
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Observation: Most galactocoeles resolve on their own without intervention. Monitoring for changes is often sufficient.
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Under ultrasound guidance, needle aspiration can be performed to drain the cyst and relieve discomfort.
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In rare cases, surgical removal may be considered if the galactocoele is persistent, recurrent, or causing significant discomfort.
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Massage and warm compresses can help promote milk flow and reduce blockages.
Prevention
In order to prevent galactocoeles, it is necessary to ensure proper drainage of breast milk:
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To prevent milk stasis, breastfeed frequently and on demand.
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During each feeding or milk expression session, ensure breasts are completely emptied.
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Weaning gradually allows the body to adjust milk production accordingly.
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To promote effective milk removal, ensure the baby latches correctly.
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Regularly inspect and care for the breasts, watching for signs of discomfort or blockage.
Galactocoeles are benign breast lumps filled with milk caused by blocked milk ducts. The symptoms include a painless, movable lump in the breast. Diagnosing the condition involves clinical examination, ultrasound, and needle aspiration. Treatment options include observation and aspiration or surgical removal. Prevention involves maintaining regular breastfeeding practices, ensuring complete milk drainage, and gradually weaning babies.
