What causes a painful pimple on the breast?

“I have something that looks like a pimple near my nipple and it hurts. What causes a painful pimple on the breast?”

Dr. Janessa Oliveira
Biochemist and Pharmacist CRF-SP 22143

A painful pimple on the breast that looks like a small bump is often a sign of an infected Montgomery gland, especially when it appears on the areola or around the nipple. Montgomery glands are small oil-producing glands found on the areola, which is the darker area around the nipple.

If an infected Montgomery gland is suspected, it is best to see an OB-GYN or primary care provider for an evaluation. Treatment may involve antibiotics, and in some cases, the gland may need to be drained.

A pimple on the breast or any bump around the nipple should not be squeezed. Squeezing can push more bacteria into the skin and make an existing infection or inflammation worse.

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