Breast Lumps, Crusting, and Pain: Possible Causes from Mastitis to Cancer

Symptoms like breast lumps, nipple crusting, and pain may indicate:

• Mastitis: Infection in breastfeeding women; pain, swelling, redness, warmth, fever.
• Abscess: Pus collection; similar symptoms.
• Milk duct ectasia: Dilated, inflamed ducts; pain, nipple discharge, periareolar lumps.
• Paget’s disease: Rare nipple/areola cancer; scaly, crusty, red nipple with itching/burning.
• Fibrocystic changes: Benign; pain, swelling, lumpiness.

Next Steps

See a doctor for accurate diagnosis. Tests may include ultrasound, mammogram, or biopsy.

Symptom Relief Tips

• Supportive bra
• Warm compresses
• OTC pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Adequate rest