What could be the cause of a hard lump and pain in the breast of a man over 70 years old, and what should be done about it?
Apr 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Dapeng
Introduction
A man in his 70s with a breast lump and pain may have conditions such as trauma, mastitis, mammary hyperplasia, chest wall tuberculosis, or fibroadenoma. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and good sleep habits, which can support recovery. Additionally, it is recommended that the patient seek prompt medical evaluation at a hospital for appropriate examinations and treatment.
Men over 70 years old who experience breast lumps and pain may be affected by various causes, including trauma, mastitis, mammary hyperplasia, chest wall tuberculosis, or fibroadenoma.
1. Trauma
Trauma can damage small blood vessels within the breast tissue, leading to blood accumulation in the surrounding tissues and resulting in hematoma or bruising. This may feel like a hard lump in the breast and is often accompanied by pain. Under medical guidance, medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, acetaminophen tablets, or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets can be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
2. Mastitis
When the breast becomes infected with bacteria, it may lead to mastitis, causing local inflammatory reactions such as breast swelling, warmth, and pain. As directed by a physician, medications such as Prunella vulgaris granules, Xiaorusanjie capsules, or dandelion capsules may be taken to clear heat, resolve nodules, and reduce swelling for effective treatment.
3. Mammary Hyperplasia
Male breasts contain glandular tissue, and elderly men may develop mammary hyperplasia due to prolonged hormonal fluctuations. This condition can cause breast lumps and tenderness. Under medical supervision, androgenic drugs such as testosterone undecanoate soft capsules or testicular tablets may be prescribed for treatment.
4. Chest Wall Tuberculosis
The male breast area lies close to the sternum, ribs, and soft tissues of the chest wall. When these areas are infected and invaded by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, chest wall tuberculosis may develop, leading to painful lumps. Treatment should strictly follow medical advice using anti-tuberculosis drugs such as isoniazid tablets, rifampicin tablets, or pyrazinamide capsules. If drug therapy proves ineffective, surgical removal of the affected tissue may be required.
5. Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenomas may alter the structure of breast ducts and lobules, forming solid masses or nodules in the breast, which may cause discomfort when pressed or touched. If the fibroadenoma continues to grow without shrinking, surgical excision by a physician at a hospital should be considered.
It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle—including balanced nutrition, moderate exercise, and regular sleep patterns—to support recovery. Patients are also strongly advised to seek prompt medical evaluation at a hospital for appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment.
