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Subareaolar abscess

Subareolar abscess is an inflammatory lesion involving the lactiferous ducts in the subareolar region. Squamous metaplasia of the lactiferous duct results in obstruction and subsequent rupture of the duct, with release of keratinous debris into the surrounding stroma. This induces a foreign body reaction, with acute and chronic inflammation.

Cytological diagnostic features

• Squamous epithelium
• Anucleate squamous cells
• Acute and chronic inflammation
• Foreign body type giant cells
• Epithelial repair and inflammatory atypia may be present
• Granulation tissue may be present