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show full textGalactorrhea is a pathological secretion of breast milk by the woman’s mammary glands outside the period of breastfeeding a child. Pathology takes place if milk secretion does not stop after the end of lactation or begins in women who have not given birth. In rare cases the problem can be observed even in men.
At the core of the phenomenon is an endocrinological problem - an increase in the level of prolactin (lactotropic hormone), called hyperprolactinemia. It can be caused by the diseases of the central nervous system, preventing the work of prolactin inhibitors (substances that inhibit its secretion). Excessive synthesis of prolactin can be also caused by prolactinoma or somatotropinoma -tumors in the pituitary gland.
Disorders of the thyroid gland, due to which an overabundance (thyrotoxicosis) or a lack (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones can also lead to an increase in prolactin levels. In addition it can occur in case of ovarian diseases (polycystic ovary syndrome) and tumor processes in the adrenal glands.
Galactorrhea may occur with liver damage, renal failure, violation of the hypothalamus. The cause of galactorrhea may also be an uncontrolled intake of hormonal drugs and herbal remedies. Occasionally there occur cases of galactorrhea, the causes of which can not be determined.
In addition to the obvious symptom -milk secretion or other secretions of a milky, greenish or yellowish color, other symptoms may appear:
active hair growth on the chin and chest;
blushes;
acne;
headache;
dizziness;
peripheral vision problems;
vaginal dryness.
In men gynecomastia is possible (increase in the size of the mammary glands), sexual desire may decrease and erectile dysfunction may develop.
Galactorrhea can be unilateral (milk is produced only by one breast) or bilateral (by both). According to the degree of manifestation, galactorrhea of I, II and III degrees is distinguished. When the first degree takes place milk secrets in droplets under pressure in the area of nipple, in case of second degree - under pressure milk trickles, in the third degree – it flows spontaneously.
The examination begins at the initial consultation with the breast physician, who conducts the check-up, analyzes the complaints and draws up a medical history. After that additional examinations are appointed which are necessary to determine the causes of galactorrhea, this can be: blood test for prolactin, determination of the level of thyroid hormones, CT of the brain. When identifying endocrinological or gynecological pathologies, a consultation of a specialized doctor– endocrinologist or gynecologist is appointed.
The main task in the process of treatment of galactorrhea is to reduce the level of prolactin, which is the cause of the problem in the vast majority of cases. The treatment course may include drugs that inhibit the secretion of prolactin, correct thyroid hormone levels, treat gynecological pathologies. In the presence of tumors surgical treatment may be indicated.
You can make an appointment with the specialists of the Oxford Medical clinic by phone or by writing to the chat operator on our website.
department: Breast care
department: Breast care
department: Breast care
department: Breast care
department: Breast care
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