ABOUT THE DISEASE

Gynecomastia is a term used to indicate a condition in which firm breast gland tissue gets formed in males. This should not be mistaken with normal fat deposit (false gynecomastia). The breast tissue is usually less than 1-1/2 inches across and is located directly under the nipple. Gynecomastia may be present on one side or on both sides. It may occur during puberty and generally goes away after a few months however in some cases it persists even after that period.

CAUSES

Gynecomastia is usually caused by changes in hormones (estrogen and testosterone) at birth, puberty or as part of aging. In adults, the balance of hormones might get affected by any of the following underlying factors:
- Aging
- Disease, such as:

• Tumors of the adrenal glands, testes or pituitary glands
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypogonadism
• Kidney disease
• Liver failure

• AIDS medicines
• Anti-anxiety medicines
• Antibiotics
• Chemotherapy
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Ulcer medicines
• Anabolic steroids

DIAGNOSIS

- Medical history
- Physical examination

In some cases:
- Mammogram
- Blood hormone level test
- Breast ultrasound
- Kidney and liver function tests

TREATMENT METHODS

Mostly no specific treatment is required, in teenage boys the problem disappears in 2-3 years. If any kind of medication is causing this problem, once the medication is stopped, the problem also is cured.

In extreme cases the following might be prescribed:

• Hormone treatment that blocks the effects of estrogens
• Breast reduction surgery/Gynecomastia surgery

You may also like to learn about:

Breast cancer
Hyperthyroidism
Hypogonadism
Adrenal gland disorders
Pituitary tumor
Depression