Rusty Pipe Syndrome: a Rare Syndrome During Breast Feeding-Our Experience

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Lactation Studies
• Neonatal Care

Background:

• Rusty Pipe Syndrome (RPS) is a condition where blood in breast milk causes a rusty or brownish discoloration.
• While generally considered benign, RPS requires further investigation into its presentation and characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase awareness of Rusty Pipe Syndrome (RPS) through case reports.
• To analyze and compare findings from new RPS cases with existing medical literature.

Main Methods:

• Data collection from six confirmed RPS cases at Rea Maternity Hospital and Alexandroupolis General University Hospital.
• Study period: March 2020 to July 2024, involving women aged 25-36.

Main Results:

• Majority of participants (83%) were primigravida with no prior birth history.
• Bilateral presence of blood in milk was noted in 67% of cases.
• Symptoms of RPS commonly appeared on the second postpartum day (50% of cases).

Conclusions:

• RPS is typically a benign condition, frequently presenting bilaterally.
• The occurrence of unilateral RPS cases, as observed in this study, is considered rare and warrants attention.