Accessory breast refers to the extra breast that appears in addition to the normal pair of breasts in the human body. This article mainly introduces the knowledge about where accessory breasts grow and how to identify them.
What is an Accessory Breast?
During the embryonic period, there are 6-8 pairs of rudimentary mammary glands from the armpit to the inguinal region. By the time of birth, all but one pair in the chest area regress. Accessory breasts are the remnants of incomplete regression during the embryonic period, so they are always smaller than normal breasts.
Accessory breasts can manifest in the following three ways:
(1) Presence of mammary tissue without a nipple.
(2) Presence of a nipple without mammary tissue.
(3) Presence of both a nipple and mammary tissue.
Where do Accessory Breasts Grow?
The majority of cases present as swelling or protrusion in the anterior or axillary regions, often occurring bilaterally but can also occur unilaterally. They can also occur in the upper or lower parts of normal breasts, abdomen, inguinal region, outer thigh, and other areas.
However, the most common locations are the axillary region or the upper and lower parts of normal breasts. According to statistics, women with accessory breasts account for approximately 2-4% of adult females.
What are the Symptoms of Accessory Breasts?
Accessory breast is a common breast developmental abnormality in females. It is often underdeveloped tissue, resembling infant breasts, or may only show slight darkening of the skin with a slightly thickened center, similar to a small nipple.
Accessory breasts may significantly enlarge and even secrete milk during pregnancy and lactation. After weaning, accessory breasts do not shrink, making them more noticeable.
There may be swelling and pain before menstruation, and significant pain upon touch.
How to Distinguish Between Accessory Breasts and Fat Deposits?
Compared to the acquired fat "pseudo-accessory breasts," most congenital accessory breasts have mammary tissue. Some may experience swelling and pain, and even nipple discharge during the menstrual period, pregnancy, and lactation. To accurately determine whether it is an accessory breast, a B-ultrasound examination can be performed at the hospital.
