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What's the Deal with Gynecomastia in Men?
Published: Jan 16, 2024
Gynecomastia is a condition where men develop enlarged breast tissue due to hormone imbalances. While it’s not usually dangerous, understanding the condition can help manage its symptoms.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia can be either physiologic or pathologic. Physiologic gynecomastia happens naturally during life stages like puberty, while pathologic gynecomastia is linked to medication use or medical conditions like liver disease or hormonal imbalances. Understanding the cause is crucial for deciding the best management plan.
Spotting the Symptoms
True gynecomastia involves the enlargement of glandular breast tissue, which needs to be distinguished from pseudogynecomastia, where the breast enlargement is due to fat. Symptoms can include swelling, tenderness, and sometimes pain, which can vary depending on the cause and duration of the condition.
Why It Matters
Although gynecomastia is often benign, it can cause psychological distress and embarrassment. In rare cases, it could indicate more serious health issues like testicular tumors. Thus, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's the enlargement of male breast tissue due to a hormone imbalance.
It affects about 40% of men at some point in their lives.
It's usually not dangerous but can cause distress.
Treatment depends on the cause and may include medication or surgery.
True involves glandular tissue, pseudo involves fat.
Key Takeaways
Understanding gynecomastia can help manage its symptoms and alleviate any distress.
References
- Braunstein GD. Clinical practice. Gynecomastia. N Engl J Med 2007; 357:1229.
- Lapid O, van Wingerden JJ, Perlemuter L. Tamoxifen therapy for the management of pubertal gynecomastia: a systematic review. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2013; 26:803.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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