Though breast cancer occurs more frequently in women, nearly 2,000 men were diagnosed with this form of cancer in 2009, according to the National Cancer Institute. Breast cancer symptoms in men mimic those experienced by women with this disease. Men who develop any noticeable changes to their breast tissue should consult a physician for further evaluation and care.
Breast Lump or Mass
When cancerous cells accumulate within the breast tissue, men with breast cancer may notice a small lump or mass in the affected tissue. The skin lump may feel unusually thick or swollen and is typically painless, reports the American Cancer Society. In certain men with breast cancer, unusual skin lumps can develop beneath the armpits rather than within the breast tissue of the chest. Affected patients should discuss these breast changes with a medical professional as soon as possible to prevent the spread of this form of cancer to other regions of the body.
Breast Skin Abnormalities
Men with breast cancer can develop unusual skin changes as a symptom of this disease. The skin across the breast or chest may appear unusually red or irritated. Affected men may notice that their nipples appear inflamed, dry or scaly, explain health experts with the American Cancer Society. The inflamed skin region can begin to flake or may itch. Abnormal skin puckering or dimpling across the breast tissue can also occur in men with this disease, reports MayoClinic.com. Additionally, cancerous cell growth within the breast tissue can cause the nipples to retract or invert in affected men. Men who develop these breast skin abnormalities should consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Nipple Discharge
Unusual nipple discharge may occur as a symptom of breast cancer in men. In certain men, this nipple discharge may contain small amounts of blood, explain health professionals with Cancer Research UK, a cancer charity based in London. Men who develop any type of nipple changes or discharge should seek further care from a medical professional immediately.
