Male Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the male breast. It may occur in one or both breasts from birth to old age.

INFANT GYNECOMASTIA

Shortly after birth, male babies may have enlarged breasts that produce a small amount of milky discharge. This period of gynecomastia comes from the high levels of the mother’s hormones that the baby receives before birth. The condition usually resolves itself within a few weeks, however, may last longer in babies that are breast fed. This is a normal condition.

ADOLESCENT GYNECOMASTIA

Gynecomastia often occurs at puberty between the ages of 11-17 when the hormones begin to fluctuate. Pubertal gynecomastia affects both breasts in about 75% of cases; the remaining cases involve only one breast. The nipple and areola enlarge, and may be tender. The condition is transient, usually passing unnoticed or resolving in several months. However, for a few young males, the condition may persist for two years or longer. If this occurs, the condition will require surgery which consists of removing only the glandular tissue, leaving the nipple and areola intact.

ADULT GYNECOMASTIA

Gynecomastia may also occur in the later stages in males between 50 and 70 years. The breasts may become enlarged and tender. The condition is usually in both breasts and is usually a symptom of a hormonal imbalance, medications or underlying disease. It usually is not related to cancer of the breast in men.

CAUSES OF GYNECOMASTIA

·        Hormonal- both breasts 75% of the time

·        Secondary to other Diseases - (usually both breasts) such as liver disease, thyroid disorders, or pituitary tumors

• Drug Related:

• Antacids

• Antibiotics

• Anti-hypertensive- blood pressure

• Anti-Nauseates

• Anti-Neoplastics-cancer

• Some cardiac medications

• Diuretics-fluid control

• Hormones

• Narcotics

• Tranquilizers

• As well as many other drugs

·        Cause not known

TREATMENT FOR GYNECOMASTIA

If the gynecomastia is in one breast, only a physician may closely evaluate the area by feeling for signs of a lump or thickening and may recommend a mammogram in order to rule out cancer.

Puberty

Gynecomastia during puberty is not treated because it usually diminishes over several months. However, if it extends over a longer period of time, an underlying cause will be investigated and, occasionally, surgical removal of the glandular tissue may be considered. An incision is made around the edge or the areola and the enlarged breast tissues were removed, leaving the nipple and areola intact with no noticeable visible evidence of a surgical scar.

Adult

In the treatment of adult gynecomastia the intake of all medications is evaluated by a physician or pharmacist. If a medication is the cause of the enlargement, a physician may suggest an alternative medication that does not have the same side effect. On occasion, surgery may also be needed for persistent gynecomastia. The greatest concern is when one breast experiences enlargement. Since cancer usually occurs in one breast and has a firm distinct lump, any singular breast enlargement needs close examination by a physician.