Overview
Breast cancer in men is a rare but serious disease in which malignant cells form in the breast tissue. Although men have much less breast tissue than women, they still possess ducts and lobules where cancer can develop. It accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancers, but delayed diagnosis is common because men are less likely to recognize early signs. Early detection and prompt treatment significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes.
Commonly Associated
- Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) – the most common type in men
- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) – non-invasive early stage
- Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) – rare due to limited lobular tissue
- Paget disease of the nipple – involves the skin of the nipple and areola
- Inflammatory breast cancer – rare, aggressive type causing redness and swelling
Causes Of – Breast Cancer (Male)
Breast cancer in men develops when mutations trigger uncontrolled growth of breast cells. Risk factors include:
- Genetic mutations – especially BRCA2 (and less commonly BRCA1)
- Family history of breast cancer
- Age – most cases occur in men over 60
- Hormonal imbalances – higher estrogen levels due to obesity, liver disease, or hormone therapy
- Klinefelter syndrome – a genetic condition linked to increased risk
- Radiation exposure to the chest
Symptoms Of – Breast Cancer (Male)
Common signs and symptoms include:
- A painless lump or swelling in the breast, usually under the nipple
- Nipple retraction or inversion
- Nipple discharge, possibly bloody
- Changes in skin texture – dimpling, puckering, redness, or scaling
- Pain or tenderness in the breast or nipple
- Swelling of lymph nodes under the arm
Exams & Tests – Breast Cancer (Male)
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests:
- Clinical breast exam – physical examination by a healthcare provider
- Mammography and ultrasound – imaging to detect and evaluate abnormalities
- MRI – provides detailed images when needed
- Biopsy – confirms diagnosis and determines tumour type
- Hormone receptor and HER2 testing – helps guide treatment decisions
Treatment Of – Breast Cancer (Male)
Treatment strategies are similar to those for female breast cancer and depend on cancer stage and biology:
- Surgery – most often a mastectomy to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue
- Radiation therapy – to target residual cancer cells
- Chemotherapy – systemic treatment to kill cancer cells
- Hormone therapy – for hormone receptor-positive cancers
- Targeted therapy – used for HER2-positive cancers
- Immunotherapy – in certain advanced cases
- Rehabilitation and follow-up – ongoing monitoring for recurrence and management of side effects
Source – Breast Cancer (Male)
- American Cancer Society – Male Breast Cancer
- National Cancer Institute – Male Breast Cancer Treatment
- NHS UK – Breast Cancer in Men
