22-Year-Old Male Experiences Sudden Breast Enlargement and Pain

A 22-year-old male presents with gynecomastia, and recently, the left breast has suddenly enlarged and become painful?

Hello doctor, I am a 22-year-old male.
Since elementary school, my chest has been getting larger, suspected to be gynecomastia.
As an adult, it only slightly changed according to my body age and physique.
However, recently, for the past two months, my left breast has started to enlarge and has mild pain.
Initially, the symptoms felt like pain caused by pressure while sleeping, but it hasn't improved after more than two months, and my left breast has also started to grow larger.
Currently, my symptoms are: 1.
The left breast is larger and firmer than the right breast, which is relaxed; the left breast feels elastic and tight (the volume has suddenly increased by more than 20%).
2.
When I squeeze the left breast, I can feel what seems to be a lump under the skin, which is much more pronounced than on the right side.
3.
Pressing on the left breast causes mild pain, and friction and pressure on the left nipple also cause discomfort.
Could this possibly be a sign of breast cancer?

22-Sui Nanxing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/25

Dr. Wu Jianting reply Breast and Thyroid

During adolescence, due to growth and hormonal development, males may experience asymmetry in breast size, with one side often appearing larger and potentially accompanied by tenderness when squeezed.
These symptoms typically resolve on their own after a period of time (the exact duration varies by individual) and usually do not require excessive concern.
Male breast cancer is relatively rare compared to female breast cancer; however, if there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an examination.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2016/06/25

More Info

Your concerns about sudden breast enlargement and pain in a 22-year-old male are certainly valid and warrant careful consideration. While gynecomastia, which is the enlargement of breast tissue in males, is a common condition, the specific symptoms you describe—such as the sudden increase in size, hardness, and localized pain—could indicate a need for further evaluation.

Gynecomastia can occur due to hormonal imbalances, particularly an increase in estrogen or a decrease in testosterone. This condition can be physiological, often seen during puberty, or it can be pathological, resulting from various factors such as medications, health conditions, or lifestyle choices. In your case, the fact that the left breast has become significantly larger and harder than the right, along with the presence of palpable lumps and pain, raises some concerns that should not be overlooked.

While gynecomastia itself is usually benign, the sudden changes you are experiencing could potentially indicate other underlying issues, including but not limited to:
1. Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions that affect hormone levels, such as hyperthyroidism or tumors that produce estrogen, could lead to breast enlargement and discomfort.

2. Breast Tissue Changes: The presence of a lump or mass in the breast tissue could suggest the development of a benign tumor, such as a lipoma or a more serious condition. Although breast cancer is rare in men, it is not impossible, especially if there are changes in the breast tissue.

3. Infections or Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as mastitis or abscesses can cause localized pain and swelling in the breast tissue.

4. Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, including some used for treating anxiety, depression, or prostate conditions, can lead to gynecomastia as a side effect.

Given the duration of your symptoms (over two months) and the specific characteristics of the changes in your breast, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the breast tissue further. Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels may also be necessary to determine if there is an underlying hormonal imbalance.

In summary, while gynecomastia is a common condition, the specific symptoms you are experiencing—especially the sudden enlargement, hardness, and pain—should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to addressing any potential underlying issues effectively. Please do not hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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