ABSTRACT
Persistence of remnants of the mammary line may give rise to accessory nipples (polythelia). They are found along the line of the mammary line and are commonly mistaken for moles. An extra breast develops if a remnant of the mammary line completely develops into a breast (polymastia) (Figure 2.3). Amastia is the congenital absence of the breast. It can be either unilateral or bilateral and is very rare. In amazia there is absence of breast tissue but the nipple is formed.1-5
The adult (female) breast lies on the anterior thoracic wall. Its base extends from the 2nd to the 6th rib. It lies from the edge of the sternum to almost the mid-axillary line. Part of the superior lateral quadrant is sometimes extended towards the axilla. This is the axillary tail of the breast.
