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Thursday, September 18, 2008 Lucie Galarza asks

Q: Nipple hypersensitivity of surviving breast 16 years post-cancer

I had my left breast removed 16 years ago. 

 

At the time of breast reconstruction the nipple of my surviving breast was surgically realigned thus numbing any sensation on the nipple.  

 

For the past 8 weeks the nipple has become hypersensitive -- it now also includes the aureola as well.   I saw a surgeon who had me undergo a mammogram and an ultra sound of my breast --- both came back fine.

 

The nipple looks fine but the hypersensitivity at times becomes painful.   I'm concerned that I may have Paget's disease of the Nipple --- even though no tumor was found ---- what type of Doctor should I see with my concerns so that I can get a biopsy.   The surgeon I saw was condescending and said no one could tell me why this is happening.

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Answers (2)
9/18/08 4:21pm

Hi Lucie - Sorry you're having to go through this painful episode. I'd suggest asking your PCP to refer you to a breast specialist. Sounds to me like you need a biopsy of the nipple to rule out Paget's disease; it's a very rare cancer, so chances are excellent that's NOT the underlying cause of your discomfort, but best to get it ruled out so you can figure out what the real issue is. Best of luck - PJH

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9/18/08 3:15pm

I'm sorry your doctor was condescending. He needs some lessons in bedside manners.

I would go to my GYN. I don't know your age, but if chemo didn't throw you into menopuase already, you could now be having symptoms. Even if it's not the case, I would still talk to my GYN. Good luck.

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