Polythelia: Extra Nipples in Men and Women – Causes and Clinical Significance

Polythelia (supernumerary nipples) is a benign congenital condition where extra nipples appear along the embryonic "milk line" (axilla to groin). It occurs in both sexes, affecting ~1-5% of the population.

Key Points

• Usually asymptomatic and harmless.
• May resemble a mole or small bump; often mistaken for skin tags.
• Rarely, associated with renal/urinary tract anomalies or genetic syndromes (e.g., Turner syndrome).
• If concerned, consult a clinician for evaluation; removal is cosmetic.

Three nipples in a male is a presentation of polythelia, not a pathology.