A Unique Case of Unilateral Pseudogynecomastia

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Plastic Surgery
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Gynecomastia, a benign enlargement of male breast tissue, is often linked to hormonal imbalances.
• Unilateral pseudogynecomastia, a rare variant, involves adipose tissue accumulation without glandular proliferation.
• Occupational factors, such as repetitive microtrauma, may contribute to pseudogynecomastia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of unilateral pseudogynecomastia in a male mechanic.
• To emphasize the distinction between pseudogynecomastia and true gynecomastia.
• To illustrate the successful surgical management and cosmetic outcome.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 45-year-old male mechanic with unilateral left breast enlargement.
• Clinical evaluation, imaging, and hormonal assays to diagnose lipomatosis without glandular involvement.
• Surgical excision of adipose tissue using the Kornstein technique, preserving the nipple-areola complex.

Main Results:

• Histopathology confirmed the absence of malignancy.
• The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative recovery.
• A 12-month follow-up showed symmetrical breast appearance with no recurrence.

Conclusions:

• Differentiating pseudogynecomastia from true gynecomastia is crucial.
• Occupational risks, like microtrauma, should be considered in cases of unilateral breast enlargement.
• Surgical techniques preserving the nipple-areola complex yield excellent cosmetic results for pseudogynecomastia.