Galactocele
Encyclopedia
A galactocele is a cystic tumor containing milk
or a milky substance that is usually located in the mammary gland
s. It is caused by a protein plug that blocks off the outlet. Galactoceles are benign and are not a cause for concern. Once lactation has ended the cyst will resolve on its own without intervention. A galactocele does not cause infection as the milk within is sterile and has no outlet for which to become contaminated. Attempts to drain the cyst are unsuccessful because the protein plug remains intact and milk production continues.
Galactocele may be associated with oral contraceptive use.
Milk
Milk is a white liquid produced by the mammary glands of mammals. It is the primary source of nutrition for young mammals before they are able to digest other types of food. Early-lactation milk contains colostrum, which carries the mother's antibodies to the baby and can reduce the risk of many...
or a milky substance that is usually located in the mammary gland
Mammary gland
A mammary gland is an organ in mammals that produces milk to feed young offspring. Mammals get their name from the word "mammary". In ruminants such as cows, goats, and deer, the mammary glands are contained in their udders...
s. It is caused by a protein plug that blocks off the outlet. Galactoceles are benign and are not a cause for concern. Once lactation has ended the cyst will resolve on its own without intervention. A galactocele does not cause infection as the milk within is sterile and has no outlet for which to become contaminated. Attempts to drain the cyst are unsuccessful because the protein plug remains intact and milk production continues.
Galactocele may be associated with oral contraceptive use.
External links
- Case description and discussion at harvard.edu