What to do for accessory breast tissue in the axilla?

ABSTRACT

Supernumerary nipples and breast tissue often are dismissed as cosmetic curiosities. These structures have the potential for pathologic degeneration and may be associated with significant congenital abnormalities. It is currently recommended that all accessory breasts be removed surgically but complications following this procedure have been poorly documented. This prospective study was to determine the optimum management of axillary accessory breast tissue. A total of 25 patients, who presented with axillary accessory breasts were subjected for excision. There were 16 [64%] patients bilateral, 5 [20%] unilateral right and 4 [16%] patients unilateral left. Fifteen [60%] patients presented with cosmetic disfigurement while 5 [20%] patients presented with pain and discomfort the remaining 5 [20%] patients complaining of anxiety. The postoperative outcome shows wound infection in 2 [8%] patient, postoperative pain in 2 [8%] patient, seroma in one [4%] patient, bad scar in one [4%] patient and incomplete removal in one [4%] patient. The excised specimens included normal breast tissue in 20 [80%] women, fibrocystic disease in 2 [8%] women, duct ectasia in 2 [8%] women and fatty tissue in one [4%] women. In conclusion, accessory breast tissue in the axilla better removed surgically but can be associated with significant minor morbidity