Nipple changes. Sometimes breast cancer causes changes to the appearance of the nipples. One or both nipples may become inverted or the skin may appear red, scaly, or thick. The nipple or areola may appear very dry or sunburned. Some women also experience nipple discharge. Any discharge from the nipple other than milk may be caused by injury, an infection, or a benign tumor but it can also be a sign of breast cancer, especially if the discharge is bloody. Watch for persistent lumps or bumps just underneath or on the areola or nipple. This is a sign of early-stage breast cancer called ductal carcinoma in situ. These changes are more likely to be breast cancer if the changes only occur on one side.
