O92.6: Galactorrhoea

Galactorrhoea is a medical condition characterized by the inappropriate flow or discharge of milk or a milk-like substance from the breast in both men and women, not associated with breastfeeding or childbirth. While this condition can occur in any gender, it is more commonly seen in women. Galactorrhoea can occur because of several reasons including hormonal imbalances, often involving prolactin, a hormone responsible for milk production, certain medications, or physical damage or irritations to the breast. Hormone-related causes often involve issues with the pituitary gland, located in the brain. Although Galactorrhoea itself does not usually suggest a serious disorder, it could be a sign of an underlying problem that needs medical attention, such as a pituitary tumor. Symptoms accompanying the discharge can include irregular menstrual periods in women and breast enlargement in men.