Gynecomastia after cytotoxic therapy for metastatic testicular cancer

Four men with metastatic nonseminomatous testicular cancer, who had received combination chemotherapy, experienced transient gynecomastia. Serum hormone levels were measured during and after the resolution of the gynecomastia. These levels indicated toxic effects on Leydig's cells and germinal epithelium concurrent with raised serum estradiol levels in the absence of tumor. The gynecomastia may have been caused by Leydig's cell dysfunction or refeeding after substantial weight loss. This benign form of gynecomastia must be recognized to avoid unnecessary investigation and treatment.