Differential Diagnosis for Male Breast Lump
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gynecomastia: This is the most common cause of male breast lump, accounting for approximately 85% of cases. It is characterized by the benign proliferation of glandular breast tissue in males, often due to hormonal imbalance.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lipoma: A benign tumor composed of fat tissue, which can occur in the breast area of males.
- Cyst: A fluid-filled sac that can develop in the breast tissue of males, similar to those found in females.
- Pseudogynecomastia: Also known as "false gynecomastia," this condition involves the accumulation of fat in the breast area, mimicking the appearance of gynecomastia but without the glandular tissue proliferation.
- Breast abscess: An infection of the breast tissue that can cause a lump, more common in males with risk factors such as diabetes or immunocompromised states.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Male Breast Cancer: Although rare, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, breast cancer in men is often diagnosed at a later stage, making early detection crucial. Risk factors include family history, BRCA2 mutations, and radiation exposure.
- Testicular cancer metastasis: Testicular cancer can metastasize to the breast, presenting as a lump. Given the aggressive nature of testicular cancer, early detection is vital.
Rare Diagnoses
- Phyllodes tumor: A rare tumor of the breast that can be benign, borderline, or malignant. It is more common in females but can occur in males.
- Sarcoma: A rare type of cancer that can occur in the breast tissue of males, including angiosarcoma or liposarcoma.
- Hematoma: A collection of blood outside of blood vessels, which can occur in the breast tissue due to trauma or anticoagulant therapy.
- Granulomatous mastitis: A rare inflammatory condition of the breast that can mimic cancer or infection, often associated with autoimmune disorders or infections.