Definition: This condition — abnormally large, firm breasts on males — is relatively common and could be mistaken for excess chest fat. It affects newborns, boys going through puberty and older men. Gynecomastia is not considered serious unless it’s a sign of a tumor, liver disease or hypogonadism.

Symptoms: Pain in the breast area, feminine-looking breasts, swollen nipples and nipple discharge.
Causes: An imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone are to blame. Certain medications, anabolic steroids and marijuana also can cause gynecomastia.

Treatment: The condition usually gets better over time without treatment. If it doesn’t improve, medication may be helpful, and breast tissue can be surgically removed.

Case report: An article in the May/June 2008 edition of Endocrine Practices reports a rare case of a 60-year-old man who had bilateral gynecomastia for six months. He reported erectile dysfunction and decreased libido. He underwent many exams, and the results were normal. The patient was re-interviewed and he described a daily intake of three quarts of soy milk. After he stopped drinking soy milk, his breast tenderness resolved and his estradiol (sex hormone) concentration slowly returned to normal.

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