Clinical aspect of male breast cancer: a burgeoning and unaddressed issue

Abstract

Rare among male cancers, male breast cancer (MBC) accounts for less than one percent of all male tumors. The prevalence of this illness and female breast cancer (FBC) have both been on the rise in recent years. While reports have implicated hormonal, environmental, and genetic variables in the development of MBC, nothing is known about its aetiology. Radiation exposure, hormonal imbalances caused by other medical conditions, and, most significantly, a positive family history of breast cancer-which indicates a hereditary predisposition-are major risk factors. While low-penetrance gene mutations (such as CHEK-2) are more prevalent, they do not enhance the risk of breast cancer development to the same extent as rare mutations in high-penetrance genes (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2). Speculated risk factors, including BRCA2 and lifestyle changes in the last few decades, are considered in light of the reasons for the rising occurrence. Topics covered include aromatase inhibitors, fulvestrant, and the prolactin and androgen receptor targeting pathways, as well as the therapeutic therapy of male breast cancer. Invasive ductal carcinomas, which account for about 90% of breast cancers in men, express many hormone receptors and show clear signs of treatment benefit. No single therapy method has been supported by published evidence from prospective randomized trials in MBC to yet. The treatment decision should be guided by the primary prognostic markers, which include tumor size and the number of axillary nodes involved. Detailed descriptions of the clinicopathologic characteristics of MBC are included in the present review. Our focus is on molecular profiling of MBC as a means to discover potential biomarkers and potential pharmacologic intervention targets. Endocrine treatment, which includes tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors, and GnRH analogues, as well as cytotoxic chemotherapy, are characterized in light of the existing research. We also outline the possible function of targeted medications such as HER2-directed treatments, PARP inhibitors, and angiogenesis inhibitors.

Keywords: Androgen receptor; Genetic factor; Male breast cancer; Molecular profiling treatment.