Normal Development and Physiology

Question 1

Developement of Milk Bud and congenital disorders

Answer 1

> > The milk bud develops from the ectodermal thickening in the pectoral area and extends as the milk streak (mammary ridge) from the axilla to the inguinal area.

> > At 9 weeks of gestation, the milk streak begins to atrophy to normally form a single pair of bilateral glands.

> > When less than the normal atrophy of the milk streak occurs, then polymastia and/or polythelia occurs.

> > Rarely, congenital amastia occurs as a result of failure of the milk bud.

Question 2

“witches milk” ?

Answer 2

• Ninety percent of newborns will have a breast secretion
• Result of elevated maternal hormones and prolactin levels
• Will resolve on its own in 3 to 4 weeks, as will the discharge

Question 3

prepubertal gynecomastia

Answer 3

> > symmetrical enlargement and projection of the breast bud in a girl before the average age of 12 years, unaccompanied by the other changes of puberty.

> > This process, which may be unilateral, should not be confused with neoplastic growth and is not an indication for biopsy

Question 4

What changes happen in pregnancy

Answer 4

> > there is diminution of the fibrous stroma and the formation of new acini or lobules, termed adenosis of pregnancy

Question 5

Expulsion of Milk after Delivery

Answer 5

> > their contraction appears to occur in response to the pituitary-derived peptide oxytocin

> > When breastfeeding ceases, the prolactin level decreases and there is no stimulus for release of oxytocin

Question 6

Menopause Changes to breast

Answer 6

increased fat deposition
diminished connective tissue
and the disappearance of lobular units.

Question 7

How Does HRT affect Mammograms ?

Answer 7

> > HRT can lead to increased breast density, which may decrease the sensitivity of mammography