Gynaecomastia: a decade of experience

Gynaecomastia is the most common benign condition of the male breast and accounts for up to 80% of male breast referrals. We sought to identify any changes in the number of patients referred with the condition and assess its impact on clinical practice.

Patients were identified from two prospectively maintained databases. Diagnosis of gynaecomastia was based on clinical findings, ultrasound scan (USS) assessment and/or histology.

There was a significant increase in the number of men referred to a specialist unit and diagnosed with gynaecomastia. Gynaecomastia was more prevalent in the under twenties age group. Core biopsy (CB) became the histological investigation of choice for men with unilateral disease and there was no change in the percentage of men undergoing surgery.

Most men are looking for reassurance that their condition is benign and that no intervention is required. Thus it is important to offer these men psychological support as part of their treatment.