What Is Amastia
Amastia is a rare condition in which a woman is born without breast tissue on one or both sides. It is different from athelia, where the nipple is missing, and from amazia, where breast tissue is absent but the nipple and areola may still be present.
What Is Missing in Amastia
In true amastia, the mammary glands and surrounding fatty and connective breast tissue are missing. The nipple and areola may also be absent or underdeveloped. This absence affects both the physical structure of the breast and the milk-producing tissue needed for lactation.
Causes and Associated Features
Amastia can occur as an isolated condition or alongside other developmental issues. It is sometimes linked to ectodermal dysplasia or Poland syndrome, which may also involve chest muscle abnormalities. The exact cause is often unknown, but it is thought to involve disrupted embryonic development of the mammary ridges.
Diagnosis and Management Options
Diagnosis is usually based on physical examination and imaging. Management focuses on psychological support and reconstructive options. Surgical approaches can include breast reconstruction with implants or autologous tissue to restore a natural breast shape.
