Diseases and abnormalities of the nipple-areolar complex: a case report series

Abstract

The nipple-areolar complex (NAC) is a specific anatomical and histological structure. Normal structure variabilities, pathological processes various and the complexity of diagnostic imaging cause difficulties for radiologists and physicians. Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is highly sensitive method for structural features, cancer detection of NAC. MRI is useful as an additional diagnostic tool when mammography and ultrasound findings are inconclusive. MRI allows visualization of the retroareolar region, suitable for the diagnosis of papillomas, adenomas, Paget's disease, ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive ductal carcinoma.
 This article is a literature review and case report of diagnosing pathology and anomalies of the nipple-areolar complex, which may be useful for radiologists, gynecologists and residents.