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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Alternative Names Return to top
Breast development in a maleDefinition Return to top
Gynecomastia is the development of abnormally large breasts in males.
Considerations Return to top
The condition may occur in one or both breasts and begins as a small lump beneath the nipple, which may be tender. The breasts often enlarge unevenly. Gynecomastia during puberty is not uncommon and usually goes away over a period of months.
In newborns, breast development may be associated with milk flow (galactorrhea). This condition usually lasts for a couple of weeks, but in rare cases may last until the child is 2 years old.
Causes Return to top
The most common cause of gynecomastia is puberty.
Other causes include:
Rare causes include:
Home Care Return to top
Apply cold compresses and use analgesics as your health care provider recommends if swollen breasts are also tender.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if the breasts have developed abnormally or if there is swelling or pain in one or both breasts.
Note: Gynecomastia in children who have not yet reached puberty should always be checked by a health care provider.
What to Expect at Your Office Visit Return to top
Your health care provider will take a medical history and perform a physical examination.
Medical history questions may include:
Testing may not be necessary, but the following tests may be done to rule out certain diseases:
Intervention:
If an underlying condition is found, it is treated. Gynecomastia during puberty usually goes away on its own; however, persistent, extreme, or uneven breast enlargement may be embarrassing for an adolescent boy. Breast reduction surgery may be recommended.
After seeing your health care provider:
If your health care provider made a diagnosis related to gynecomastia, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.
Update Date: 12/6/2007 Updated by: Nancy J. Rennert, M.D., Chief of Endocrinology Diabetes, Norwalk Hospital, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
