Athelia of the breast refers to the congenital absence of one or both nipples.
Understanding Athelia
Athelia is a rare condition characterized by the absence of the nipple(s) from birth. The condition can affect one or both breasts. According to the provided reference [15], it can occur due to the obliteration of the milk line during embryogenesis (the early development stage of an embryo).
Causes and Associated Conditions
While athelia can occur as an isolated condition, it is sometimes associated with underlying genetic syndromes or conditions, including:
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Congenital ectodermal dysplasia: A group of genetic disorders affecting the development of ectodermal tissues, such as skin, hair, teeth, and sweat glands.
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Poland Syndrome: A rare congenital disorder characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of the chest muscles on one side of the body.
Summary
In summary, athelia is a rare congenital condition defined by the absence of one or both nipples, potentially linked to other syndromes.
