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Gynecomastia following spinal cord disorder
R J Heruti1, R Dankner, M Berezin
1Department of Neurologic Rehabilitation, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Gynecomastia, or male breast growth, can occur in men with spinal cord disorders. This study presents six cases and recommends clinical examination and endocrinological workup for affected patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Urology
Background:
- Gynecomastia is an overdevelopment of male breast tissue.
- It is a known, yet under-described, phenomenon in spinal cord disorder (SCD) patients.
- The condition can significantly impact body image and psychological well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the occurrence of gynecomastia in patients with spinal cord disorder.
- To review potential etiologies of gynecomastia in this population.
- To propose a diagnostic and management strategy.
Main Methods:
- Case series of six male patients with SCD who developed gynecomastia.
- Review of existing literature on gynecomastia and spinal cord injury.
- Description of a suggested endocrinological workup protocol.
Main Results:
- Six patients with SCD (traumatic injury, decompression sickness, transverse myelitis) developed gynecomastia.
- Onset ranged from 1 to 6 months post-injury.
- The study highlights the need for awareness and systematic evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Gynecomastia is a relevant clinical finding in spinal cord disorder patients.
- A clinical exam and endocrinological workup are crucial for diagnosis and management.
- Addressing gynecomastia can alleviate patient anxiety and improve body image.