Can males get breast cancer?

Male breast cancer can begin in the ducts or other breast tissue behind or near the nipple. A firm lump, nipple inversion, discharge, skin change or swelling under the arm may be a presentation of breast cancer, but these findings also have non-cancer causes. The direction matters: breast cancer can present with a breast lump; a breast lump does not establish that cancer is present.

Assessment commonly starts with an examination and breast imaging. A mammogram, breast MRI or breast biopsy may be recommended. Laboratory analysis can identify the tumour features that guide treatment. Family history and inherited gene changes may influence the discussion, and gene-expression testing or genomic tumour profiling may be relevant in selected cases.

Arrange a clinical review for a new lump, nipple discharge, nipple retraction, persistent pain, skin dimpling or a swelling in the armpit. Note when it appeared and whether it changes. Do not wait for it to become painful: breast cancer can present without pain, and pain is not required for assessment.

If cancer is diagnosed, the team may discuss surgery, lymph-node assessment such as sentinel lymph-node biopsy, hormone or other systemic treatment, and imaging or tumour profiling to refine the plan. The recommended sequence depends on the biopsy findings, examination and scans.

Seek prompt medical care for bloody nipple discharge, a rapidly enlarging breast or armpit swelling, an open or bleeding skin area, or signs of infection such as fever and spreading redness. During treatment, report new severe headache, confusion, weakness, seizure or vision change urgently because these symptoms need immediate assessment, including consideration of causes such as brain metastases.

Ask what the examination and imaging show, whether a biopsy is needed, what the tumour features mean, whether lymph nodes need checking, and which treatment aims apply. Ask whether genetic or genomic testing could change the plan and which changes should prompt an urgent call.