Causative and risk factors
Cancer of the breast usually affects elderly men beyond the age of 60 years. Men who have had previous exposure of radiation to the chest are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Having a close female relative with breast cancer makes a man more prone to developing breast cancer himself. Gynecomastia, Klinefelter’s syndrome or liver cirrhosis predisposes to breast cancer. Having any disease or injury of the testes is also associated with a higher risk of breast cancer in men.
Clinical presentation
The first symptom is usually a lump on the chest, around the nipple. Bleeding or discharge from the nipple may be present. Gynaecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) may be present in some patients.
Investigations
The physician will perform a physical examination of the chest followed by a USG or CT scan. A biopsy of the breast tissue may be taken for confirmation.
Treatment
Treatment for male breast cancer involves a combination of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Hormone therapy works well in males with breast cancer.
