Male breast cancer
Dr Shiroma De Silva-Minor - Medical oncology
Created on: 10-20-2020
Updated on: 10-18-2023
Edited by: Conor Dunworth
Breast cancer most commonly affects women, however, in rare cases men can also be affected by breast cancer. Breast cancer in men occurs in the very small amount of breast tissue men have, which is found directly behind their nipples.
Symptoms
Symptoms of male breast cancer may include:
- A lump in the breast
- A lingering rash around the nipple
- The nipple turns inwards
- Nipple discharge
- Small bumps in the armpit
Causes
Although the precise cause of breast cancer in men is unknown, there are some factors which can increase the possibility of developing it such as:
- Genetic history - It is believed that inheriting defective versions of certain genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2) can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
- Obesity, Klinefelter syndrome and other conditions that can lead to increased oestrogen levels.
- Previous radiotherapy treatment on the chest.
Diagnosis
The following tests can be used to achieve diagnosis of breast cancer in men:
- Ultrasound scan
- Mammogram
- Biopsy
Treatment
There are a number of treatment options for breast cancer in men, the most suitable one for each case depends on the stage of the cancer. Treatment options include:
- Mastectomy - Surgery to remove the cancerous breast and armpit tissue.
- Chemotherapy - Specialist cancer medicine that kills cancerous cells.
- Radiotherapy - Radiation used to kill cancerous cells.
- Medicine - There are some forms of medication which can help stop breast cancer growing such as tamoxifen and trastuzumab.
Male breast cancer: Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
By Mr Kislaya Kumar Thakur
2024-04-15
One per cent of breast cancer cases in the UK occur in men. It may be a small percentage but the impact it has on the individual is understandably huge. Top Doctors speaks to Mr Kislaya Kumar Thakur, a revered consultant breast surgeon, about male breast cancer. We consider risk factors, symptoms and much more. Read on to find out. See more
How common is male breast cancer?
By Dr Shiroma De Silva-Minor
2024-04-14
In this article, highly experienced and qualified consultant breast oncologist, Dr Shiroma De Silva-Minor, outlines how common male breast cancer is, and what the most common risk factors associated with the cancer are. See more
Male breast cancer: what are the symptoms?
By Mr Hazem Khout
2024-04-11
Although it's a lot less common than in women, men can get breast cancer too! Would you know how to recognise the symptoms of male breast cancer? We spoke to one of our leading breast cancer surgeons Mr Hazem Khout who explains all. See more
Male breast cancer: Expert insight on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
By Ms Gael MacLean
2024-04-06
In this informative article, highly esteemed consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon Ms Gael MacLean reveals the common symptoms of male breast cancer and sheds light on the diagnostic process. The leading specialist also discusses treatment, including the success of breast cancer surgery, and explains the importance of testing for carriers of genetically increased breast cancer risk. See more
Experts in Male breast cancer
-
Mr Kislaya Kumar Thakur
SurgeryExpert in:
- Breast cancer surgery
- Breast surgery
- Male breast cancer
- Mastalgia
- Gynaecomastia
- Mastitis
-
Mr Jason Lee
SurgeryExpert in:
- Breast cancer
- Mammography (breast screening)
- Benign breast lumps
- Breast cancer surgery
- Male breast cancer
-
Dr Shiroma De Silva-Minor
Medical oncologyExpert in:
- Breast cancer
- Radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Mammography (breast screening)
- Male breast cancer
- See all
The Blackheath Hospital - part of Circle Health Group
The Blackheath Hospital - part of Circle Health Group
40-42 Lee Terrace, Blackheath, London SE3 9UD
No existe teléfono en el centro.
By using the telephone number provided by TOP DOCTORS, you automatically agree to let us use your phone number for statistical and commercial purposes. For further information, read our Privacy Policy
Top Doctors
The Ridgeway Hospital - part of Circle Health Group
The Ridgeway Hospital - part of Circle Health Group
Moormead Rd, Wroughton, Swindon SN4 9DD
No existe teléfono en el centro.
By using the telephone number provided by TOP DOCTORS, you automatically agree to let us use your phone number for statistical and commercial purposes. For further information, read our Privacy Policy
Top Doctors
108 Harley Street Medical
108 Harley Street Medical
108 Harley Street
No existe teléfono en el centro.
By using the telephone number provided by TOP DOCTORS, you automatically agree to let us use your phone number for statistical and commercial purposes. For further information, read our Privacy Policy
Top Doctors
-
The Blackheath Hospital - part of Circle Health Group
40-42 Lee Terrace, Blackheath, London SE3 9UD, East LondonExpert in:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiology
- Bariatric Surgery
- Colorectal surgery
- Endocrine Surgery
- General Surgery
-
The Ridgeway Hospital - part of Circle Health Group
Moormead Rd, Wroughton, Swindon SN4 9DD, SwindonExpert in:
- Breast Cancer
- General Surgery
- Orthopaedic surgery
- Plastic surgery, reconstructive and aesthetics
- Refractive surgery
- Cancer screening clinic
-
108 Harley Street Medical
108 Harley Street, W1G Marylebone LondonExpert in:
- Vascular Surgery
- Dermatology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Women’s health
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation
- See all
- Most viewed diseases, medical tests, and treatments
- Family history of breast cancer
- Skin biopsy
- Cleft palate
- Robotic surgery
- FUE hair transplant
- Peritoneal carcinomatosis
- Stereotactic radiotherapy
- Hyperthermia therapy
- Medicolegal
- Endovascular brachytherapy