Male breast cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Male breast cancer accounts for about 1% of all breast cancers. There are no treatment recommendations based on randomized clinical trials. Aim of the study: The review of the latest information on epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment. Material and methods: Articles on breast cancer in men and study bibliographies. Results: Risk factors are related to high estrogen level, chest wall radiation and family history. BRCA1 mutations have been reported in men with breast cancer, although BRCA2 mutations are more frequent. Ductal carcinoma is the most common histological subtype of breast cancers. Breast cancer in males is more likely to express hormonal receptors and less likely to overexpress HER2 than in females. The most common symptom is a painless lump. Sentinel node biopsy has been coming into prominence. Local therapy is required for non-metastatic cancer. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and trastuzumab-therapy should be applied in men, if these methods of treatment would be found effective with women patients with the same diagnosis. Adjuvant hormonal therapy plays a very important role in male breast cancers with hormonal receptors expression. Conclusions: Breast cancer is similar in males and in females. Since there are differences in treatment response between men and women, the future studies should be focused on disease biology in men and new targeted therapy options. Copyright © 2011 Cornetis.