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Gynaecomastia
This condition is characterised by an overgrowth of glandular tissue in the male breast. It affects 50-70% of men, and is caused by hormone imbalance. The condition occurs in older men with less testosterone and those with excess body fat (who produce more oestrogen). It may also develop in men using marijuana, heroin, alcohol, anabolic steroids, hormonal drugs and other prescribed medications. Gynaecomastia usually resolves without treatment, or when the use of the above agents is stopped. However, medical assessment is required to establish the cause in order to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Accessory nipples or breast tissue
This condition, which can occur in men and women, is a result of leftover foetal breast tissue and is present from birth. Accessory nipples usually occur on the lower part of the breast but can be found anywhere along the embryonic milk lines. Treatment involves surgery for cosmetic reasons or due to ulceration or other clinical concerns.
Accessory breast tissue is a prominent swelling containing extra breast tissue. It is mostly found in the axilla but more than one site may be involved. Both benign and cancerous breast conditions can occur in this tissue. Most cases of accessory breast tissue are so small as to go unnoticed, but large problematic, areas can be treated with surgery and/or liposuction of the tissue.
