Male breast glandular development
May 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Xiaopeng
Introduction
Male breast gland development may be due to gynecomastia during puberty, which usually gradually shrinks and disappears as male sexual development matures, and generally does not require special treatment. It could also result from obesity; in such cases, appropriate exercise can help with weight loss. Additionally, it might be caused by hyperthyroidism, which can be treated with medications such as methimazole tablets or propylthiouracil tablets, taken orally as directed by a physician.
Generally, male breast gland development may result from non-pathological factors such as physiological gynecomastia during puberty, or be caused by pathological conditions such as obesity or hyperthyroidism. Management should be based on the specific circumstances. The details are as follows:
I. Non-Pathological Factors
Male gynecomastia during puberty is usually due to a transient imbalance between estrogen and androgen levels in adolescence, which may manifest as bilateral symmetric or asymmetric breast enlargement. In most cases, the enlarged breast tissue gradually shrinks and disappears as male sexual development matures, and typically does not require special treatment.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Obesity
Excessive obesity in males may lead to elevated levels of estrogen in the body, thereby causing breast gland development. Men should maintain a balanced diet, reduce intake of greasy foods such as fried chicken and fatty meat, and engage in appropriate physical exercise to aid weight loss. If necessary, medications such as orlistat capsules or liraglutide injection may be used under medical guidance.
2. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a clinical syndrome caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones, characterized primarily by symptoms such as irritability and restlessness. In males, increased levels of hormones such as thyroid-stimulating hormone and gonadotropins may lead to breast gland development. Patients can take antithyroid medications such as methimazole tablets or propylthiouracil tablets as prescribed by a doctor, and should maintain healthy lifestyle and sleep habits.
In addition, this symptom may also be caused by conditions such as orchitis, hepatitis, or liver cirrhosis. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital.
