Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What condition is associated with creamy brown discharge from the nipple?

1. Duct ectasia

2. Galactorrhea

3. Mastitis

4. Fibrocystic change

The correct answer is: Duct ectasia

The condition associated with creamy brown discharge from the nipple is duct ectasia. This occurs when one or more milk ducts beneath the nipple become dilated, filled with fluid, and may become blocked with thickened fluid or inflammatory debris. The blockage can lead to the buildup of stagnant fluid, resulting in a discharge that may be creamy and brown in color. Duct ectasia is more commonly seen in women who are approaching menopause or are postmenopausal, and it can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as nipple tenderness or retraction. The presence of this type of discharge is significant as it can indicate underlying duct inflammation or infection. While other conditions like galactorrhea, mastitis, and fibrocystic changes can also cause nipple discharge, they are generally associated with different characteristics. Galactorrhea typically presents as milky discharge unrelated to breastfeeding, while mastitis is characterized by inflammation and infection of breast tissue, often resulting in purulent discharge or systemic symptoms. Fibrocystic changes can lead to various types of discharge but more commonly present with lumpiness or discomfort rather than specific colored discharge.