threeabreast

Threeabreast is a term used to describe the presence of an extra breast, typically alongside the two standard breasts. In medical literature, the phenomenon is more commonly described as polymastia (or supernumerary breast tissue) and polythelia when extra nipples are involved. Threeabreast can refer to any situation where an individual has an additional breast or breast-like tissue along the typical embryonic milk lines.

Anatomy and presentation vary. The additional breast may be fully formed with a nipple-areolar complex and glandular tissue, or it may be rudimentary tissue without a complete nipple. Extra tissue most often appears along the mammary ridge, commonly in the axillary region, but locations can differ. The accessory breast tissue can lactate and may experience the same hormonal influences as normal breasts; however, cancer and other pathologies can arise in ectopic tissue as well, though at lower reported frequencies.

Causes and diagnosis involve embryology and genetics. Extra breast tissue develops when portions of the milk line persist beyond the usual two breasts. Diagnosis is based on physical examination and imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI to determine tissue type and assess for associated abnormalities. It is important to distinguish accessory breast tissue from lumps or other conditions.

Management is tailored to symptoms and cosmetic concerns. If asymptomatic, observation may be sufficient. Symptomatic or cosmetically disruptive tissue can be removed surgically, or managed if lactation is desired or pregnancy occurs. Counseling may address potential lactation, hormonal changes, and cancer risk in ectopic tissue, which generally mirrors risks in normal breast tissue but requires medical assessment.

In culture, the idea of a three-breasted person has appeared in fiction, contributing to its recognition as a notable but uncommon anatomical variation. See also polymastia, polythelia, and supernumerary nipples.