An accessory breast or accessory breast (also called polymastia) refers to the presence of extra breast tissue that is separate from the main breast. The condition is caused by incomplete regression of the “milk line” (fetal mammary crest), which usually disappears as the fetus develops, except in areas where the breasts form. If some of this tissue remains, it can develop into extra breast tissue, usually found in the mammary line, which extends from the armpit to the groin.
Key characteristics of auxiliary or accessory breast tissue include:
Location: Most commonly found in the armpit (axilla) but can occur anywhere along the milk line.
Symptoms: Swelling, tenderness or lumpiness may occur, especially during hormonal changes such as menstruation or pregnancy.
Functionality: In some cases, this extra breast tissue may contain functional glands that respond to hormones, leading to milk production or tenderness.
Diagnosis: It is usually diagnosed by a physical exam, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or mammography), or a biopsy to rule out malignancy.
Treatment: If the accessory breast tissue causes discomfort or cosmetic concern, surgical removal may be an option. Otherwise, it does not require any treatment.
This is a benign condition, but if it causes problems such as pain, discomfort or cosmetic concerns, medical intervention may be considered.