Paget's Disease of the Breast

Paget's disease of the breast primarily affects women in their 50's and 60's but can affect women younger and older. It is also referred to as Paget's disease of the nipple, or mammary Paget's disease (MPD). MPD is a rare form of breast cancer, found in no more than 4% of breast cancers. It is even more rarely found in men, although there have been male cases reported. Paget's disease of the breast is not to be confused with Paget's bone disease. The condition commonly called Paget's disease is a completely unrelated condition. The two conditions share the name of the 19^th century British surgeon who first identified them, James Paget. MPD originates in the milk ducts and the cancerous cells make their way to the skin on the nipple or areola of the nipple. The cause is not known but it is usually found in tandem with an underlying tumor.

MPD usually only affects one nipple although there have been rare cases where both nipples are affected. A mass may be felt inside your breast but frequently, MPD shows no outward symptoms at all and is only found during a biopsy. If contained to the nipple, it may be treated with radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery to remove the affected area. In more advanced cases where the cancerous cells are in a large area, a mastectomy may be necessary. Left untreated, PD will spread deeper into the breast. There are alternative therapies using diet, animal cartilage and natural chemicals. The treating physician will be able to recommend the best treatment for any particular case.