Gynaecomastia

Abstract

Gynaecomastia refers to the benign enlargement of glandular breast tissue in men. It is defined by the presence of more than 2 cm of breast tissue and can affect males of any age between infancy and old age. True gynaecomastia must be distinguished from pseudo-gynaecomastia where, although the breasts appear enlarged due to excess adipose tissue, there is in fact no actual breast tissue present. In many cases gynaecomastia is an incidental finding when patients are examined for other reasons, however, occasionally patients present with gynaecomastia as the primary problem. Most cases are physiological; however, it is important to identify pathological causes, as these require specific treatment. This article aims to cover the causes of gynaecomastia and an approach to assessment and its management.