nippleareola

The nipple and areola form the nipple-areolar complex, the prominent projection at the center of the breast and the surrounding pigmented ring. The nipple is the site where lactiferous ducts open on the surface, and it serves as the target for infant latch during breastfeeding. The areola helps define the nipple and provides a surface texture and pigmentation contrast that can aid in feeding and infant cues.

Anatomy and function: The nipple contains multiple lactiferous ducts that converge toward the tip, with openings visible as small pores on the surface. The areola houses Montgomery glands, sebaceous glands that secrete lubricating substances during lactation. The skin over the areola contains smooth muscle fibers that can cause the nipple to become erect. Blood supply comes mainly from the internal thoracic and lateral thoracic arteries, with innervation primarily from intercostal nerves.

Development and variation: Nipple and areola size, color, and projection vary widely among individuals and across populations. In females, hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and lactation alter pigment and glandular activity; breastfeeding can cause temporary enlargement and darkening. In males, nipples are normally present but nonfunctional. Some people have inverted nipples or larger areolar patches; pigmentation often correlates with ethnic background.

Clinical relevance: Changes in the nipple-areolar complex can be benign or indicative of pathology. Nipple discharge, persistent inversion, or skin changes such as redness, cracking, or scales may require evaluation. Paget disease of the breast and certain cancers can involve the nipple-areolar complex and warrant medical assessment. Dermatologic conditions such as dermatitis may also affect this region.