What are the treatment options for breast cancer in men?

Breast tissue in men is limited, so surgery often involves removing the breast tissue and the tumour. The team also assesses nearby lymph nodes and the tumour’s size, grade, hormone receptors, and other markers. These findings help determine whether treatment should focus on the breast, the whole body, or both.

Hormone therapy can be useful when cancer cells carry hormone receptors. It works by blocking hormone signals or lowering their effect on cancer cells. The choice of medicine depends on the pathology report, other health conditions, and medicines already being taken.

Ask for a copy of the pathology report and have the treatment plan explained in plain language. A mastectomy may be discussed to remove the breast tumour; the surgeon can explain lymph-node assessment, recovery, and reconstruction or chest-wall options. If hormone receptors are present, ask how hormone therapy would fit before or after surgery.

Your team may recommend additional treatment to reduce the chance of cancer returning in the treated area or elsewhere. Tell clinicians about heart conditions, blood-clot history, fertility concerns, and all medicines before treatment begins.

Arrange a medical assessment for a new breast lump, nipple inversion, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, or a sore that does not heal. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, sudden breathlessness, chest pain, or severe swelling after an operation. A breast change can have causes other than cancer, so examination and testing are needed.

What do my hormone-receptor and marker results mean? Is mastectomy recommended, and will lymph nodes be assessed? Would hormone therapy help me? Which side effects need an urgent call?