DIFFERENTIATING TRUE GYNECOMASTIA FROM PSEUDOGYNECOMASTIA: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY

Abstract

Gynaecomastia is the benign enlargement of male breast tissue, characterized by over 2 cm of palpable, firm, subareolar gland and ductal tissue, and is caused by a relative decrease in androgen effects or an increase in estrogen effects. In contrast, pseudogynecomastia is marked by breast enlargement due to excess adipose tissue deposition. This condition can result from various factors, including physiological, endocrine, non-endocrine, drug-induced, and idiopathic causes. This prospective observational study examines 20 male patients with enlarged breasts who presented between July 2022 and December 2023 and met the inclusion criteria at the Surgery OPD. Evaluating gynaecomastia can be complex, but a thorough history and physical examination often streamline the diagnostic process. Confirming gynaecomastia and ruling out malignancy require appropriate clinical evaluation and investigations. Typically, the condition is benign and can be managed conservatively or surgically, depending on its severity. Pseudogynecomastia, on the other hand, results from fat accumulation in the breast area, leading to "female-like breasts," most commonly observed in overweight or obese males. Treatment options include weight loss through diet and exercise, weight loss surgery, or male breast reduction surgery.