Pathways
Information on Symptomatic Breast Pain pathways is provided below.
Breast Pain
The Symptomatic Breast Pain Specialty Delivery Group published the Breast Pain Pathway in 2022.
While breast pain accounts for 15% of all clinical referrals, almost all people who are referred with breast/axillary pain have chest wall pain unrelated to the breast itself.
The pathway covers advice for healthcare professionals in relation to the following:
- Imaging for Breast Pain (based on best available evidence)
- Referral to Secondary Care
- Management of patients with breast pain within primary care
NHS Scotland Breast Pain Pathway [PDF] - published May 2022
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Gynaecomastia
The Gynaecomastia Pathway includes recommendations for management in primary care and in the breast unit.
NHS Scotland Gynaecomastia Pathway [PDF] - Published August 2023
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Nipple and Breast Skin Problems
A common theme during the Symptomatic Breast Speciality Delivery group meetings has focused on the referral of women with breast skin issues or nipple problems to secondary care services.
The majority of breast skin and nipple issues are innocent and most can be managed without referral to secondary care.
NHS Scotland Nipple Problems Pathway [PDF] - Published October 2023
NHS Scotland Breast Skin Problems Pathway [PDF] - Published October 2023
Axillary Issues
Development of the Axillary Issues Pathway has also been progressed through the Symptomatic Breast Specialty Delivery Group as it was a common theme identified during meetings held with colleagues across NHS Scotland.
Axillary Issues Pathway [PDF] - Published October 2024
Primary/Secondary Care Interface
Ensuring a whole system approach for patients accessing symptomatic breast services is essential.
Work is underway to support primary care colleagues in highlighting Once for Scotland Pathways developed for symptomatic breast services.
This will be facilitated through information sessions for primary care colleagues through virtual events.