Gynecomastia

GYNECOMASTIA, or enlargement of the male breast, is a common disorder. In recent years, clinical, pathological, and biochemical advances have clarified the nature, cause, and importance of gynecomastia. This discussion reviews these developments and suggests a reasonable approach to the clinical problems posed by the patient with breast enlargement.Characteristics of GynecomastiaDetection and PathologyGynecomastia may take the form of either a discrete, palpable subareolar plate of tissue, easily distinguished from adipose tissue, or a more diffuse mass that may resemble surrounding fat. Comparison of the breast with nearby subcutaneous tissue may allow a definitive diagnosis. The histologic appearance . . .