Gynaecomastia
Definition
The enlargement of breast glandular tissue in boys or men, due to hormonal imbalance of increased estrogen and reduced testosterone.
Physiologically, it can affect adolescent men and boys going through puberty due to the abnormal changes in hormone levels.
Causes
Gynaecomastia in infants – due to increased maternal hormonal estrogen
Gynaecomastia in adults – usually age 50-70 years old
Medications
Eg; anti-androgens, anabolic steroids, AIDS medication, Anti-anxiety medication, antidepressants
- Antibiotics
- Ulcer medications
- Cancer Treatment
Co-morbid condition
- Hypogonadism
- Aging
- Hyperthyroidism
- Kidney or liver failure, Cirrhosis
Health supplements
- Over consumption of soy products.
- Plant oils eg Tea tree oil / lavender
Symptoms and Signs
- Breast enlargement
- Breast pain
- Rarely nipple discharge
Prevention
- To treat the underlying causes
- Surgery -
- Subcutaneous Mastectomy with/out oncoplastic techniques.
- Liposuction
Gynaecomastia – before Surgery
After Surgery
Before Surgery (side view)
After Surgery (side view)
Treatment
- Many do not need any treatment or follow up if there are no signs suspicious of malignancy
- Symptomatic treatment with analgesia if painful
- For persistent discharge or suspicious lump, surgical removal of duct @ Microdochectomy is carried out