Male gynecomastia is the enlargement of the glandular tissue in a man's breast. Typically, the breast diameter exceeds 0.5 cm. It is important to distinguish male gynecomastia from fat accumulation in the male breast due to obesity.
Causes of Male Gynecomastia
Male gynecomastia can result from:
- Hormonal imbalance in men, characterized by an increased ratio of estrogen (female hormone) to testosterone (male hormone).
- In infants or during puberty, it is usually not a problem as it typically resolves without treatment; this is called physiological gynecomastia.
- Malnutrition followed by proper refeeding may create a hormonal environment conducive to gynecomastia.
- Disorders of the male reproductive organs, which may result from genetic issues, infection, trauma, poor blood supply, aging or testicular cancer.
- Other causes include chronic kidney failure and hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms of Male Gynecomastia
Symptoms of male gynecomastia appear as:
- Enlarged breast tissue in men, usually symmetrical around the nipple.
- Nipples may feel rubbery or firm.
- Typically affects both breasts but may occur in one breast.
- Breast tissue is usually soft with increased sensitivity, but there is no pain.
How is Male Gynecomastia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of male gynecomastia depends on:
- Taking the patient’s medical history.
- Performing a physical examination.
- Breast imaging studies.
- Laboratory blood tests.
- Kidney function tests.
- Thyroid function tests.
- Hormone level assessments.
Treatment of Male Gynecomastia depends on:
- Discontinuing causative medications under medical supervision, if possible.
- Surgical procedures.
- In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications, although there is limited evidence of effectiveness, including testosterone replacement, clomiphene, tamoxifen and danazol.
Complications of Male Gynecomastia
Male gynecomastia may lead to:
- Embarrassment in young men.
- Breast fibrosis, which can make treatment more difficult.
