Gynaecomastia - Male Breast

Gyneacomastia or Man boobs or moobs 

is a condition in which unilateral (one side) or bilateral (both sides) breast development occurs in males. The overall reported incidence is about 32% to 36% of male population. In adolescent boys, the incidence is reported as up to 64% and in most cases resolves over some months to years.

The extent of breast tissue development varies greatly between individuals, from a small disc of breast tissue which is not visible but can only be felt on examination to development of large breasts.

Fat deposits in the breast area in a male can mimic gynaecomastia (male breast tissue) and is called pseudogynaecomastia.

The causes of gynaecomastia are many. In about 25% no cause can be identified. Other causes include medicines, hormonal imbalance, taking of anabolic steroids, drug abuse, congenital disorders etc. Some common causes are listed below:

Risk of Male Breast Cancer

Many studies on males with gynaecomastia have demonstrated no increased risk of breast cancer when compared with the normal population. Male breast cancer accounts for 1% of all breast cancers.

Treatment of Male Breast Development (Gynaecomastia)

Spontaneous correction of male breast development can take place in cases of pubertal breast development, withdrawal of medicines or drugs causing the condition or correction of systemic disorder. However, when gynaecomastia is present over long duration, it is unlikely to resolve without surgical intervention.

Treatment options include: