What genetic problems can cause gynaecomastia?
Klinefelters syndrome affects one in every 650 males and is the main genetic cause of gynaecomastia. Men with Klinefelter’s syndrome have an extra X chromosome and do not produce enough testosterone for the body to function normally. Male physical and reproductive development is affected and men with Klinefelter’s have small testes, are usually infertile and often develop gynaecomastia. Men with Klinefelter’s syndrome have an imbalance in their oestrogen to testosterone ratio because they have low testosterone levels. Testosterone replacement therapy increases the amount of testosterone in the body, corrects the imbalance in hormones and the degree of gynaecomastia can be reduced but often persists and may need surgical intervention.
