Gynecomastia and hypertension.
Palpable dense and mobile subareolar tissue in the male breast defines the presence of gynecomastia. For the hypertension specialist, breast enlargement in men provides a clue to a secondary cause of hypertension or an adverse antihypertensive drug reaction. Hyperthyroidism, chronic renal failure, adrenal hyperplasia or tumors, amphetamine, cyclosporine, and anabolic steroids are secondary causes of hypertension associated with gynecomastia. Reserpine, methyldopa, and spironolactone are older drugs associated with gynecomastia; however, calcium antagonists (more commonly), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and alpha1 blockers may also be associated with this finding. Treatment is directed to removal of the underlying cause.
Prisant
L Michael
LM
Department of Hypertension and Clinical Pharmacology, Section of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Augusta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912, USA. mprisant@mail.mcg.edu
Chin
Edward
E
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D006177:Gynecomastia / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents