Self-Resolving Vulvar Breast Tissue Arising in the Post-Partum Setting: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Introduction

During the postpartum period, breast engorgement in preparation for lactation may trigger the onset of vulvar labial nodules that present with pain and discomfort. These labial nodules may originate from ectopic breast tissue and can rarely present in women during the postpartum period in the labia majora.

Main Issue

A 37-year-old African American female, gravida 1 para 1, presented to the Loma Linda University Medical Center with complaints of new onset labial swelling worsening 6 days following her full term spontaneous vaginal delivery. Additionally, our respondent complained of difficulty breastfeeding due to intermittent lack of milk production. She reported bilateral breast engorgement with tenderness, despite frequent attempts at breastfeeding. The respondent’s presentation did not meet the criteria for other common differentials due to the physical characteristics of the nodules. The location of the nodules along the milk line led physicians to believe that the respondent was presenting with engorged extra-mammary breast tissue in the labia majora.

Management

The participant was told to observe her course over the next few days as she began to have milk production and ejection. The respondent was seen in clinic for her 6-week postpartum visit, and was no longer complaining of difficulty with breastfeeding. The labial nodules had resolved spontaneously.

Conclusion

A literature search yielded no case reports that described a case of an extra-mammary vulvar mass that self-resolved with resolution of breast engorgement. The infrequent presentation of extra-mammary vulvar tissue makes it difficult to conclude a guideline for diagnosis and management.