Overview
Male breast cancer is a rare form of cancer that develops in the breast tissue of males. It begins as an abnormal growth of cells in the breast and can occur at any age, but is most common in older men. Male breast cancer is relatively uncommon compared to breast cancer in women. Symptoms of male breast cancer may include the presence of a painless lump or thickening of the skin on the chest, changes in the skin covering the chest, alterations in the nipple, or discharge or bleeding from the nipple. Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the breast tissue, and may also include chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of male breast cancer may include: a painless lump or thickening of the skin on the chest, changes to the skin covering the chest such as dimpling, puckering, scaling or changes in skin color, changes to the nipple such as changes in skin color or scaling, or a nipple that begins to turn inward, discharge or bleeding from the nipple.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing male breast cancer include older age, hormone therapy for prostate cancer or medicines containing estrogen, family history of breast cancer, liver disease, obesity, testicle disease or surgery. Inherited DNA changes that increase breast cancer risk, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, and certain genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome can also increase the risk. Radiation exposure, beginning your period at a younger age, beginning menopause at an older age, having your first child at an older age, and having never been pregnant can contribute to breast cancer risk in women, but there is no specific information on these factors for male breast cancer.
Development
Male breast cancer can develop in several ways. The most common types of male breast cancer are ductal carcinoma and lobular carcinoma. Ductal carcinoma begins in the milk ducts, while lobular carcinoma starts in the milk-producing glands called lobules. These cancers can occur due to changes in the DNA of breast cells, causing them to grow and multiply uncontrollably. Other, rarer types of male breast cancer include Paget's disease of the nipple and inflammatory breast cancer.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you notice any signs or symptoms of male breast cancer, such as a painless lump or thickening of the skin on the chest, changes to the skin covering the chest, changes to the nipple, or discharge or bleeding from the nipple.
Diagnosis
To diagnose male breast cancer, a healthcare professional will likely conduct a clinical breast exam to feel the breasts and surrounding areas for lumps or other changes. Imaging tests, such as a breast X-ray (mammogram), an ultrasound, or an MRI scan, may also be used to look for signs of cancer in the breast tissue. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to remove a sample of suspicious breast tissue for testing in a lab. These tests and procedures can help determine the presence of breast cancer and guide the development of an appropriate treatment plan.
Management and Treatment
Treatment
Treatment for male breast cancer typically involves surgery to remove the breast tissue. Other treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, may be recommended as well.
Preparing for medical consultation
Preparing for an appointment for male breast cancer involves taking a similar approach as for female breast cancer. Here's what you should do:
- Make the appointment with a healthcare provider who specializes in treating cancer (oncologist).
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to breast cancer. Note when they began.
- Write down key personal information, including your medical history and whether you have a family history of breast cancer.
- List all medications, vitamins, or other supplements you take, including doses.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your healthcare provider, such as:
- What type of breast cancer do I have?
- What is the stage of my cancer?
- Has my cancer spread beyond the breast?
- Can my cancer be cured?
- Will I need more tests?
- What are my treatment options?
- What side effects might there be for each option?
- Is there a treatment option you feel is best for me?
- How long will cancer treatment last?
- How will cancer treatment affect my daily life?
- Should I see a specialist?
- If you have other health conditions, prepare to discuss how you can best manage them together during cancer treatment.
- Consult with your healthcare team, which may include breast health specialists, breast surgeons, radiologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, genetic counselors, and plastic surgeons.
- Connect with other cancer survivors for support. Ask your doctor about support groups in your community or explore online resources provided by organizations such as the American Cancer Society or BreastCancer.org. Remember to be proactive and communicate openly with your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific situation.