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Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is a condition affecting anatomical males where they have chest tissue that is female-appearing Breasts.

The conditon is an overdevelopment of the breast tissue. Ocassionally, the tissue may grow unevenly from one side compared to the other.

Often the cause is hormones, but other issues such as medications, illegal drugs, diseases, and others.

When it occurs in Adolescents

When Gynecomastia occurs in a younger age it often triggered by puberty and hormone changes that are occuring. It is often considered normal.

There can be clear confusion compared to obesity.

In many cases in adolescents, this should resolve on its own.

It has also been seen in newborn babies and is believed to be a short term change caused by the mother’s estrogen staying in the baby’s blood after birth. As in Adolescents, it should resolve on its own.

In Adults:

Chest enlargment or overdevelopment can occur in adults. There are many potential causes for this change including medicaitons, drug use, medical contions, and more.

It can also be seen in those who use Anabolic steroids and Klinfelter’s syndrome.

Adults are less likely to have the changes resolve on their own. They may need to see a doctor for discussion on potential risks, treatments, and such.

Many men may become embarrased and use shirts or other tight fitting clothing to hide the changes. But a further work-up may be indicated.

Other causes than hormones are as follows:

–  Obesity
–  Endocrine disorders
–  Some cancers
–  Several types of drugs and/or medications can be involved
–  Other medical condtions such as liver diseas, thyroid disease, trauma, injury, others.

Symptoms

– Glandular enlargement of breast tissue
– Typically non-tender in adult
– Can be more tender prior to puberty

Diagnosis

– Blood work
– Urine Tests
– X-ray or Mammogram of tissue

–  Biopsy or small sample of the breast tissue for evaluation

Treatment

1.)  Pre-puberty gynecomastia will resolve on its own.

2.)  Drug induced gynecomastia may resolve once affecting drug is stopped…but not always.

3.)  Surgical correction in some patients may be advisable.

Medication

.     Raloxifene
.     Tamoxifen
.     Letrozole
.     Anastrozole