Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is a condition where males have abnormally enlarged breasts, due to increased proliferation of breast tissues.

Causes:

All men have both androgen and estrogen hormones, that is male and female hormones. When there is alteration in androgens and estrogens balance then it results in Gynecomastia.

Other causes of Gynecomastia:

Chemotherapy for cancer
Deficiency of testosterone
Marijuana use
Radiation treatment for testicles (leading to testosterone deficiency)
Chronic liver disease
Hormone treatment for testicular cancers
Chronic renal failure
Hyperthyroidism
Malnutrition
Klinefelter's syndrome
Trauma
Infections
Unknown reasons

Certain medications can cause Gynecomastia. They interact with the natural levels of testosterone and estrogen, and upset the balance.

Hormones (androgens, anabolic steroids, estrogen agonists)
Anti-ulcer medications such as cimetidine
Antibiotics (isoniazid, ketoconazole, metronidazole)
Cardiovascular drugs, such as captopril and digitoxin
Cancer chemotherapeutics for prostrate cancer.
Psychoactive agents, such as diazepam and tricyclic antidepressants

Symptoms:

Enlargement of male breast
Tenderness and sensitivity may be present

Diagnosis:

Physical examination
Past medical history
Mammogram in case of cancer suspicion

Social impact:

Gynecomastia may not be considered a serious medical condition, however, it has great impact on the mind of the person having it. Low self-esteem may lead to poor social networking, which may lead to some sort of anxiety and depression in some patients.