 |
Supernumerary nipples
Definition
Supernumerary nipples is the presence of extra nipples.
Alternative Names
Polymastia; Polythelia; Accessory nipples
Considerations
Supernumerary nipples are fairly common. They are generally unrelated to other conditions or syndromes. The extra nipples usually occur in a line below the normal nipples. They are usually not recognized as extra nipples because they tend to be small and not well formed.
Causes
- Variation of normal development
- Some rare genetic syndromes may be associated with supernumerary nipples
Home Care
Usually no treatment is needed. The extra nipples do NOT develop into breasts at puberty.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Talk to your health care provider if there are supernumerary nipples on an infant and there are other symptoms present.
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the patient's medical history. The number and location of extra nipples will be noted.
Review Date:
2/27/2008
Reviewed By: Rachel A. Lewis, MD, FAAP, Columbia University Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Reviewed By: Rachel A. Lewis, MD, FAAP, Columbia University Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
| A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch). |
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
