Runners may develop abrasions of the nipple because of recurrent friction and rubbing against clothing. This can be quite uncomfortable.
Clinical features:
(1) erythema
(2) skin erosion and/or fissuring
(3) pain
(4) crusting
(5) bleeding
(6) superficial infection (especially with Staphylococcus aureus)
General risk factors:
(1) shirts made of a hard fabric such as nylon
(2) constrictive clothing (including outer clothing during fall and winter)
(3) strap or sports equipment worn across the chest
Risk factors for men:
(1) gynecomastia
Risk factors for women:
(1) not wearing a sports bra
Differential diagnosis:
(1) abrasions from falls
(2) in older women, breast carcinoma with nipple involvement
(3) mastitis
Prevention:
(1) Wearing a bra (for women)
(2) Wearing less abrasive clothing.
(3) Covering the nipple with a bandage.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
Specialty: Surgery, orthopedic
