Diagnosis

We define gynecomastia as the enlargement of the mammary gland more than 0.5 cm in diameter in man.

As we have mentioned before, gynecomastia is the presence of glandular tissue under and around the nipple-areola. Fat deposition without glandular proliferation does not involve real gynecomastia.

In most cases, it is diagnosed by palpation in a plastic surgeon’s office. An evaluation of the patients’ history that includes medications and diseases is very basic.

If there is suspicion of malignancy then a mammography is recommended. Moreover, in cases of suspected hormonal disruption a full hormonal control is recommended in which the function of the liver, kidney and thyroid is investigated

Breast cancer and gynaecomastia

• Cancer of the male breast accounts for the 0.2-1% of cancer in men. Aggressive
• Gynecomastia on its own does not predispose for cancer of the male breast, except for the Kleinfelter syndrome
• Histological examination depends on the physician’s judgment. It is not required in all cases.