Diagnostic Tests, Procedures, Equipment
Gynecomastia in Men
HFFY#7074
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Gynecomastia in Men
What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is an enlargement of breast
tissue in males. A man may feel an area of
firm tissue in one or both breasts. The
breast may become enlarged and tender. A
man with gynecomastia may describe his
breast as feeling rubbery or firm. It occurs
in babies, teens, and men.
How is gynecomastia diagnosed?
Gynecomastia is often found during a
physical exam. Most of the time, no
treatment is needed. This condition will go
away with time. Your doctor may
recommend a mammogram or ultrasound of
the breast. If breast cancer is suspected, you
may need a biopsy of your breast. You may
have lab tests done to look at your hormone
levels and overall health. Your doctor may
stop the use of certain medicines. You may
need to meet with a surgeon to discuss
different surgical options.
What is the cause of gynecomastia?
When gynecomastia occurs in men, it is
often caused by medicine, disease, or
hormone changes.
A lack of testosterone and an
increase in estrogen may be one
cause. Your doctor may prescribe
treatment with hormones.
The thyroid does not work as it
should.
Your doctor will ask for a list of
medicines you are taking. Some
medicines that cause this problem
fall into these groups:
o Heart.
o Steroids.
o Anti-epileptic.
o Anti-depressants.
o Anti-ulcer.
The use of alcohol, marijuana, and
other “street” drugs may be a cause.
In rare cases, breast cancer may be
the cause of breast tissue growth.
Please follow up with your doctor for further
treatment.
Your health care team may have given you this information as part of your care. If so, please use it and call if you
have any questions. If this information was not given to you as part of your care, please check with your doctor. This
is not medical advice. This is not to be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Because each
person’s health needs are different, you should talk with your doctor or others on your health care team when using
this information. If you have an emergency, please call 911. Copyright ©8/2016. University of Wisconsin Hospitals
and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#7074.
