GYNECOMASTIA or MALE BREAST -Dr. Pranav Kumar Best Gynecomastia Surgen in Patna
What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is an enlargement or swelling of breast tissue in males. It can affect one or both breasts.
What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is most commonly caused by an imbalance between the hormones estrogen and testosterone. Estrogen controls female traits, including breast growth. Testosterone controls male traits, such as muscle mass and body hair. Although each of these hormones produces the usual traits seen in males and females, males produce a small amount of estrogen and females produce a small amount of testosterone. Male estrogen levels that are too high or are out of balance with testosterone levels cause gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia occurs naturally at different times in a male’s life. These phases are:
After birth. Newborn boys are still under the effects of the estrogen they received from their mothers while developing in the womb. More than half of newborn males are born with enlarged breasts. The gynecomastia goes away within two to three weeks after birth.
At puberty. Hormone levels are changing during puberty (usually 12 to 14 years of age). Breast enlargement usually goes away six months to two years after the start of puberty.
At mid-life and beyond. Breast enlargement often peaks in men between the ages of 50 and 80. About one in four men in this age range have breast enlargement.
There are many other conditions that can cause gynecomastia. These include:
Obesity
Lack of proper nutrition
Tumors in the testicles or adrenal glands
Liver disease
Hyperthyroidism
Hypoandrogenism
Hypogonadism
Kidney failure
How is gynecomastia diagnosed?
The diagnosis is based on physical symptoms, breast exam, medical history and medication review, and other exams. Breast pain and tenderness are common symptoms. Often times a firm rubbery disk of tissue, located directly beneath the nipple area, is felt during the exam. The lump is easily moveable within the breast tissue. Your doctor will review all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you take. Your doctor will also review your medical history and order tests to determine if other diseases/conditions are the cause of the gynecomastia. Breast imaging tests — a mammogram and/or breast ultrasound — may be ordered. These tests are usually ordered to rule out breast cancer. Your doctor may also order blood tests to check your hormone levels.
Some Articals on Gynecomastia
Mayo Clinic – Gynecomastia
Webmd – What is Gynecomastia
