Pea-Sized Nipple Lump: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

A pea-sized lump on or near the nipple warrants prompt clinical evaluation. While many causes are benign, breast cancer must be ruled out.

Common Causes

• Fibroadenoma – smooth, mobile, rubbery; common in 20s–30s.
• Cyst – fluid-filled, may fluctuate with cycle; often tender.
• Intraductal papilloma – small wart-like growth in duct; may cause nipple discharge.
• Mastitis/abscess – painful, red, warm; often breastfeeding-related.
• Fat necrosis – firm lump after trauma/surgery.
• Breast cancer – hard, fixed, irregular; may have skin changes, nipple retraction, discharge.

When to See a Doctor

Immediately if: lump is hard/fixed, skin dimpling/redness, nipple inversion, bloody discharge, axillary nodes.

Within 1–2 weeks for any new, persistent lump.

Diagnostic Steps

1. Clinical breast exam
2. Imaging: ultrasound (± mammogram if ≥30 or high risk)
3. Biopsy if imaging suspicious (core needle preferred)

Do not self-diagnose. Early detection dramatically improves breast cancer outcomes.