Male Breast Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Background: Male breast cancer (MBC) is a rare malignancy, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancers. Its diagnosis and management present unique challenges due to its rarity and late presentation, often at advanced stages.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out at VIMSAR, Burla from July 2020 to July 2022, with 10 male patients diagnosed with breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, treatment outcome, and follow-up results. All patients were found to have a painless hard lump, and diagnosis was confirmed through trucut biopsy. Clinical data, imaging findings, treatment protocols, and follow-up results were analyzed.

Results: Mean age at presentation was 57 years. More than 50% patients presented with cutaneous involvement and 70% patients had axillary lymph nodes. The most common histopathological finding was invasive ductal carcinoma. Eight patients were positive for hormone receptors (ER/PR+). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by modified radical mastectomy is given to all patients. Postoperative recovery was quite good, and one of them developed local recurrence. However, in any patient, no metastasis was seen.

Conclusion: Male breast cancer, though very rare, needs early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary treatment approach for the best possible outcomes. The study brings forward the need for increased awareness and early screening and personalized treatment protocols. Larger studies and collaboration between different medical disciplines are also necessary to improve the management and prognosis of MBC.