What does breast cancer in men mean in men?

Men have a small amount of breast tissue behind the nipple, so breast cancer can occur there. A firm lump, nipple change, discharge, skin dimpling or a swelling under the arm can be a presentation of breast cancer, although these changes can also have non-cancer causes. Clinicians assess the finding with an examination and may use imaging and a biopsy. The biopsy identifies the cancer type and features that guide treatment.

Arrange a medical appointment for a new breast or underarm lump, nipple discharge, inward pulling of the nipple, persistent skin change or one-sided swelling. Note when it began and whether it is changing. Tell the clinician about family history, previous chest radiation, hormone conditions and medicines. Do not squeeze a lump or delay assessment because breast cancer is less familiar in men; prompt evaluation provides the information needed for a clear plan.

Contact a clinician promptly for a new breast lump or nipple discharge, especially if there is blood, skin breakdown, rapid change or an enlarged underarm area. Seek urgent help for severe infection symptoms, uncontrolled bleeding, sudden breathlessness or rapidly worsening illness. A symptom’s urgency comes from its features and your condition, not from assuming that it is cancer.

Ask which tests are needed, when results should be available, whether a biopsy is recommended and what its findings could change. If cancer is confirmed, ask about its type, hormone receptors, lymph nodes, treatment choices, fertility or sexual health concerns, and emotional support.