What condition is suggested by the combination of bloody discharge and a palpable mass in the breast?

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The combination of bloody discharge and a palpable mass in the breast is strongly indicative of invasive ductal carcinoma. Invasive ductal carcinoma is characterized by the growth of cancer cells from the ductal system of the breast into the surrounding breast tissue, leading to the formation of a palpable mass. The presence of bloody discharge can occur due to the invasive nature of the tumor, which may invade blood vessels or disrupt the normal ducts, causing bleeding.

While other conditions like fibroadenoma, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and Paget's disease of the nipple can also be associated with breast changes, they do not typically present with the specific combination of bloody discharge and a palpable mass as commonly as invasive ductal carcinoma does. Fibroadenomas are usually benign and less likely to cause bloody discharge. DCIS is a non-invasive condition that may not present with a palpable mass or discharge at all, as it is confined to the ducts. Paget's disease primarily affects the skin and nipple area, often associated with eczematous changes, but does not typically involve a palpable mass or produce bloody discharge directly from a lump within the breast tissue.

Therefore, the clinical presentation of bloody discharge accompanied by a palpable mass is most suggestive of invasive

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