Value of diagnostic imaging for the symptomatic male breast: Can we avoid unnecessary biopsies?

PURPOSE: To review the use of diagnostic breast imaging and outcomes for symptomatic male patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 122 males who underwent diagnostic imaging for breast symptoms at our academic center.

RESULTS

The majority (94%) of cases had negative or benign imaging, with gynecomastia being the most common diagnosis (78%). There were two malignancies, both of which had positive imaging. Fifteen patients underwent percutaneous biopsy, and over half (53%) were palpation-guided biopsies initiated by the referring clinician despite negative imaging. Diagnostic imaging demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 96% specificity for identifying cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Malignancy is rarely a cause of male breast symptoms. Diagnostic breast imaging is useful to establish benignity and avert unnecessary biopsies.