Supernumerary nipples and accessory breast tissue

Supernumerary nipples and supernumerary breast tissue are often dismissed as cosmetic curiosities. These structures have the potential for pathologic degeneration and may be associated with significant congenital abnormalities. In a prospective comparison of 100 Native American women to 100 non-Native American women, these accessory organs were found much more commonly in Native American women. Careful attention should be given to thorough evaluation and long term follow-up of any patient in whom this anomaly is found.