Table of contents:
- Causes of lumps in male breasts
- 1. Breast cancer
- 2. Gynecomastia
- 3. Fibroadenoma
- How to diagnose a lump in the male breast?
If lumps in women's breasts are mostly identified with cancer, then the lumps in men's breasts are often questionable. Tumors or breast cancer in men may occur, it's just that the cases are rare. Then, what is the cause of the lump in the male breast?
Causes of lumps in male breasts
Male breasts are composed of various types of tissue. These tissues can become swollen until they form a lump. Lumps in men's breasts are not uncommon. However, some men experience this. These lumps can indicate non-cancerous breast disorders or they can be caused by hormonal system disorders. Here are some causes of lumps in male breasts.
1. Breast cancer
Breast cancer cases in men are very rare. According to the National Cancer Institute, the figure is less than one percent of all incidents. This cancer generally develops tissue that is located behind the nipple, which is a hard, painless lump. Men who experience it may experience changes in skin color and texture of the nipples.
Most cases are found in men who are elderly, namely around the age of 60 years and over. However, it is possible that this cancer will develop at a younger age.
Experts are not sure what causes breast cancer in men. However, some of these things can increase a man's risk of developing breast cancer, namely:
- Excessive radiation exposure
- Have a family history of breast cancer
- Inheriting certain gene mutations such as the BRCA2 gene
- Have a genetic disorder called Klinefelter syndrome in which a man has an excess of the X chromosome
- Have severe liver disease or cirrhosis of the liver
2. Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a non-cancerous disorder characterized by an increase and swelling of the breast tissue in men due to an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone. The lump usually appears on one or both breasts, sometimes evenly. Sometimes it hurts, but sometimes you don't feel anything.
Gynecomastia usually forms at puberty and at an older age. This disease is often caused by hormonal effects and certain drugs. Men with gynecomastia generally have a special medical background such as cirrhosis of the liver, chronic kidney disease, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism), and testicular tumors.
Gynecomastia can go away on its own. If this condition persists for a long time, you can see a doctor and start the treatment process until surgery to remove it.
3. Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenomas are non-cancerous growths that usually feel soft and spongy when held. Generally fibroadenomas occur in women aged 20 years. This tumor consists of breast and stromal tissue that can affect one or both breasts.
Experts have not found the exact cause of this disease in men. Hormonal imbalance can be one of the causes. An unhealthy lifestyle usually encourages the growth of these tumors. The percentage of incidence in men is small, but it does not rule out men who will experience it.
How to diagnose a lump in the male breast?
During the first examination, the doctor may ask a number of things such as how long the lump has been lodged, whether or not it is painful, or what medicines you are taking. The doctor will also perform a series of examinations, including:
- Bump biopsy
- Mammogram (breast ultrasound)
- Microscopic evaluation of cells in the nipple
- MRI to examine the lymph nodes and surrounding tissue
- Hormone levels in the blood
If you or someone closest to you detect a lump around the breast, it's a good idea to immediately consult a doctor.
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