Isolated supernumerary nipple along embryonic milk line in an adult male patient successfully treated by surgical excision: a case report.
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INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Supernumerary nipples are the most common congenital anomaly of the mammary ridge, resulting from incomplete regression of the embryonic milk line. Most cases are asymptomatic and managed conservatively; surgical excision is reserved for cosmetic concerns, psychological distress, symptomatic lesions, or diagnostic uncertainty. CASE PRESENTATION: A 19-year-old Nepali male presented with an accessory nipple-areolar complex on the right chest, which had been present since childhood. Although asymptomatic, it caused significant cosmetic dissatisfaction and self-consciousness. Examination revealed a well-circumscribed, non-tender lesion measuring 5 × 5 mm2 located 5 cm inferior to the right nipple along the embryonic milk line. Ultrasound showed no underlying glandular tissue or abnormalities. Surgical excision was performed under intravenous anesthesia with primary wound closure. Recovery was uneventful, with satisfactory healing and minimal scarring. Histopathology confirmed a supernumerary nipple without atypia or malignancy. The patient reported high satisfaction with the cosmetic outcome at follow-up. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: A supernumerary nipple is generally benign and managed conservatively; however, cosmetic and psychosocial concerns may significantly impair quality of life, particularly in young patients. Although rare, supernumerary tissue can undergo the same benign and malignant changes as normal breast tissue, highlighting the importance of clinical evaluation and histopathological examination after excision. CONCLUSION: Surgical excision is a safe, effective, and definitive treatment for symptomatic or cosmetically concerning supernumerary nipples, providing excellent esthetic outcomes and histopathological confirmation.