Management of Accessory Breast Tissue

Evaluation and Diagnosis

Swelling that may mimic axillary lymphadenopathy may be a symptom of accessory breast tissue, and a complete clinical evaluation to assess for other sites of adenopathy and potential non-breast etiologies is recommended, with age-appropriate diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound with mammogram for patients ≥30 years of age, and ultrasound alone for patients <30 years of age, according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 1
Core needle biopsy is recommended for palpable axillary mass that appears suspicious on imaging, as part of the evaluation process for accessory breast tissue 1

For asymptomatic patients, observation is acceptable if the patient is not bothered by the condition, but regular follow-up to monitor for changes is recommended, according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 1
If malignancy is suspected in the accessory breast tissue, management should follow the NCCN Guidelines for Breast Cancer for management of the axillary mass 1