Milchgänger

Milchgänger, singular Milchgänger (English: lactiferous duct), denotes the duct system within the mammary gland that conducts milk from the alveoli to the nipple. A breast contains an extensive network of ducts that drain the lobules through progressively larger channels. The ducts originate at the terminal ductal-lobular units and converge toward the nipple, where they widen into lactiferous sinuses just beneath the areola, allowing milk storage during nursing.

Structure and function: The walls of the Milchgänger are lined by luminal epithelial cells and supported by a layer of myoepithelial cells and connective tissue. Myoepithelial contraction aids milk expression. During pregnancy, hormonal changes promote ductal growth and alveolar development. After birth, suckling triggers oxytocin release, causing the myoepithelial cells to contract and milk to be ejected through the ducts to the nipple.

Clinical relevance: The ductal system can be affected by various conditions. Duct ectasia involves dilation and inflammation of the ducts, often occurring in perimenopausal individuals. Intraductal papilloma is a benign ductal tumor that may present with unilateral nipple discharge. Infections such as mastitis or blocked ducts can cause tenderness and abscesses if untreated. Diagnostic approaches include ultrasound, mammography, and, in selected cases, ductography or MRI.

Etymology and terminology: The term derives from German, with Milch meaning milk and Gänger meaning duct or channel. In English, the term lactiferous duct is used, with “milk ducts” as a common colloquial alternative.