Gynecomastia

I am a 64 year old male in excellant health except for being about 30 pounds overweight.  About 4 months ago, I developed some tenderness in my left breast under and around the nipple.  I also have noticed that the breast is getting larger.  With the use of hot packs, the tenderness is almost gone. My family doctor examined the breast and did not feel anything abnormal other than what he thinks is more fat in the left breast than in the right breast.  My question is:  is soreness normal with gynecomastia?  My doctor said I might have it but was not sure.  He also didn't say anything about the soreness.  I don't know the breast is sore unless I push around on it.  I seem to feel the the tissue under the nipple is harder in the affected breast that in the other one but my Doctor said he thinks that is just more fat in that breast than in the other one. Thanks

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Breast soreness may be possible with gynecomastia.  Things like breast cancer is more severe in males, so you may want to consider further testing.  This would include a mammogram and/or an ultrasound.  Any suspicious mass should be evaluated with a biopsy.

If this is truly gynecomastia, further endocrine tests should be considered for further evaluation.  This would include a prolactin level, thyroid tests, testosterone and estrogen tests, as well as HCG level.  This can be discussed with your personal physician.  An endocrine consult can also be considered.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[I'mallheart]

hello i am a 28 male..i have bigger than normal breast, well there not as bad but i have huge nipples..its so imbarassing..i dont know what to do..hope you get your help

[gaara548]

A related discussion, gynecomastia was started.

[interdev]

A related discussion, This is an answer for I'mallheart's was started.