PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What percentage of breast malignancy may present as bloody discharge from a single duct?

1. 5-10%

2. 10-15%

3. 20-25%

4. 30-35%

The correct answer is: 10-15%

The correct answer is that about 10-15% of breast malignancies may present as bloody discharge from a single duct. This presentation is significant because bloody discharge is often associated with potential malignancies, particularly when it is unilateral and associated with other risk factors. When evaluating patients with a unilateral bloody nipple discharge, healthcare providers typically consider further investigation, as it can signal underlying ductal carcinoma or other pathology. The presence of bloody discharge raises clinical concern and prompts actions such as ductography, ultrasound, or even biopsy to investigate further. In general, while benign conditions can also cause bloody discharge (such as intraductal papilloma or duct ectasia), a considerable proportion of cases that present this way can indeed be malignant, hence the importance of knowing the specific percentage associated with breast cancer. Recognizing this percentage helps clinicians prioritize diagnostic approaches when faced with a patient experiencing this symptom.