[1] They present as a firm mass, often subareolar, and are caused by the obstruction of a lactiferous duct.

It may rarely be complicated by a secondary infection and result in abscess formation.

These cysts may rupture leading to formation of inflammatory reaction and may mimic malignancy.

[citation needed] Once lactation has ended the cyst should resolve on its own without intervention.

A galactocele is not normally infected as the milk within is sterile and has no outlet through which to become contaminated.