What is the typical treatment for benign nipple discharge caused by duct ectasia in younger women?

The typical treatment for benign nipple discharge caused by duct ectasia in younger women is microdochectomy. This surgical procedure involves the excision of the specific duct or ducts that are affected, which can alleviate symptoms such as discharge or pain. Microdochectomy is particularly suitable for cases where duct ectasia is diagnosed, especially if there is persistent discharge or significant discomfort for the patient.

In younger women, managing duct ectasia often leans towards less invasive options if the condition is not causing major distress; however, when intervention is necessary, microdochectomy provides a targeted approach to resolving the issue without the need for a more extensive procedure like total duct excision. This minimizes recovery time and preserves surrounding tissue, which is important for cosmetic and functional reasons.

While antibiotics might be considered if there is an infection present, the underlying condition of duct ectasia does not typically warrant antibiotic therapy as an initial treatment. Observation and follow-up might be appropriate in asymptomatic cases where the discharge is minimal and does not impede the patient's quality of life. However, should the discharge become concerning or bothersome, microdochectomy is the recommended approach. Hence, microdochectomy is often the preferred treatment option for dealing with symptoms associated with duct ectasia.