Assistant Professor of the Academy of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Gynecomastia is characterized by the enlargement of male breast, due to glandular proliferation and fat deposition. Gynecomastia is a common condition which occurs in three different age groups: adolescents, adults and old people. In this review the pathogenesis, etiology, evaluation and treatment of this condition will be discussed. A hormonal imbalance between estrogen and androgen is the key cause of the gynecomastia occurrence. Physiologic factors, Endocrine dysfunction, endocrine tumors, non endocrine disorders, drug usage and idiopathic causes are among the etiologic factors of gynecomastia. In the clinical evaluation, a thorough etiologic investigation should be considered. Therapeutic options for gynecomastia can be listed as: weight loss, reassurance, medical treatment with Tamoxifen, and surgery. Liposuction and mammary, adenectomy as a combined surgery, gives the best result for long standing gynecomastia.
