Pubertal gynecomastia: years of progress – the Hacettepe experience

Abstract

Abstract Gynecomastia is defined as an enlargement of the male breast. Although it is commonly seen during puberty, it is often overlooked by many physicians. As adolescent medicine specialists, we believe there is a gap in the literature concerning both the etiology and maybe more importantly the care of these adolescents. Thus, we have been dedicated to conducting research on this topic. The aim of this review article was to evaluate the studies concerning pubertal gynecomastia that took place at the Division of Adolescent Medicine, Hacettepe University, published between the years 2003 and 2016. The review covers in detail both the short- and long-term effectivity and safety of tamoxifen used for the treatment of pubertal gynecomastia. As the exact basis for the pathogenesis of gynecomastia remains unknown, we also evaluate three studies that aimed to answer this question. We additionally review a study that aimed to assess the psychological distress and effect on body image that gynecomastia may have on the adolescent male. An important contribution this review article adds to the literature is as a conclusion to all the studies performed, we present the ‘Hacettepe indications for tamoxifen treatment for pubertal gynecomastia’. These indications will aid physicians when considering treating these patients.