This is the condition that occurs when breast milk is produced when not breastfeeding. Although this is not a disease, this can be the result of an underlying problem such as the presence of tumor in the pituitary gland. This can affect both the sexes and can also occur in women after their menopause.
Causes
Galactorrhea often develops as the result of increased prolactin in the body which is normally responsible for the production of milk after the birth of the infant. This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland that also secretes other essential hormones required by the body. Some of the other possible causes of this condition include the use of various medications, pituitary tumors which can result in hyperprolactinemia by producing prolactin, hypothalamic lesions, thyroid disorders that can also stimulate the production of prolactin, chronic renal failure, use of birth control pills, excessive breast stimulation and spinal cord surgery. The neonatal galactorrhea is also possible when elevated levels of estrogens in the placental-fetal circulation can cause enlarged breasts in newborn infants that can secrete milk.
Symptoms
The symptoms of galactorrhea include nipple discharge from the milk ducts, irregular menstrual periods, vision problems and the low levels of estrogen in women which can result in vaginal dryness. The symptom in men includes reduced interest in sexual activity and erectile dysfunction. In the case of non-milky nipple discharge, this requires a prompt medical evaluation particularly with the presence of a lump, as this can be an indication of breast cancer.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on the duration of galactorrhea, the nipple discharge, the gynecologic and obstetric history, use of drugs, past health problems, the family history of thyroid disorder and other associated symptoms that are evident. The diagnosis of this condition is evaluated by measuring the level of prolactin in the blood and other imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI imaging. Among the women, this condition may be identified when their menstruation periods are affected or with the production of breast milk unexpectedly. This may be detected in men who have reduced levels of testosterone, low libido and the secretion of breast milk. The CT scan may be necessary to evaluate the presence of abnormality such as tumor near the pituitary.
Treatment
The treatment is focused on the underlying cause and if this condition is the result of certain medications, then the use of alternative medications can be considered. In the case of hypothyroidism, it can be treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. When the cause is not identified, the nipple discharge may be stopped with medications to block the effects of prolactin or to reduce its level in the body. If a pituitary tumor is the cause, this requires medication to either shrink the tumor or surgery to remove the tumor.
References
http://www.aafp.org/afp/2004/0801/p543.html
