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Supernumerary nipple
Supernumerary nipple
Supernumerary nipples
Supernumerary nipples

Supernumerary nipples

Definition:

Supernumerary nipples is the presence of additional nipples.



Alternative Names: Polymastia; Polythelia; Accessory nipples

Considerations:

Supernumerary nipples are a fairly common occurrence. They are generally unrelated to other conditions or syndromes. The extra nipples�usually occur in a line below the existing nipple. They are usually not be recognized as extra nipples, because they are usually small and not well formed.



Common Causes:
  • Variation of normal development
  • Hay-Wells syndrome (very rare)
  • Ruvalcaba-Myhre syndrome (very rare)


Home Care:

Usually no treatment is needed. The extra nipples DO NOT develop into breasts at puberty.



Call your health care provider if:

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 health care provider's office:

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: 5/10/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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