Male Breast Cancer Biology, Screening, Treatment, and Follow-Up: A Narrative Review.

Abstract

Male breast cancer (MBC) is a rare type of cancer that affects men, accounting for only 1% of all cancers in men and all breast cancer cases worldwide. Its rarity is due to the differences in male endocrine function and the smaller amount of mammary tissue in males. Due to its infrequency, there is limited knowledge about the disease, and treatment recommendations are often based on extrapolation from clinical trial data involving female breast cancer patients. Men with MBC typically present in their 50s or older and may mistake a suspicious breast mass for a benign condition called gynecomastia. Various known risk factors contribute to breast cancer in men. Currently, there are no international randomized control trials (RCTs) specifically focused on MBC, and management guidelines are primarily derived from studies conducted among female patients. Localized and resectable cases of breast cancer typically require surgical intervention, followed by radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, or potentially utilizing recent advancements in immune-oncology agents. A comprehensive approach that involves a multidisciplinary team ensures appropriate treatment and can lead to favorable outcomes. However, screening for MBC is limited due to the lack of large-scale international RCTs demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing MBC-related mortality.