Physiological neonatal breast enlargement

Case contributed by Ammar Haouimi
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Painless swelling of both breasts. No fever.

Patient Data

Age: 10 days
Gender: Male

Bilateral and relatively symmetrical retroareolar heterogeneously hypoechoic areas measuring (22 x 9 mm) on the right, and (22 x 8 mm) on the left containing small cystic areas with increased echogenicity of surrounding subcutaneous soft-tissues.

Case Discussion

Neonatal breast enlargement is a relatively common condition that can be seen in both female/male neonates, due to the influence of the maternal estrogens during fetal life. It can be uni-or bilateral (frequently bilateral), asymptomatic or physiological. It usually is seen in the first week of life and resolves spontaneously within the first 6 months of life.

 On ultrasound, the main differential diagnosis of neonatal breast enlargement is neonatal mastitis.

 

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.