The typical time frame for resolution of adolescent gynaecomastia after onset is?

The typical time frame for resolution of adolescent gynaecomastia after onset is?

• A. 1 to 3 months
• B. 6 to 24 months
• C. 3 to 6 weeks
• D. 5 to 10 years

Answer: (B)

Adolescent gynecomastia comes from a temporary imbalance of estrogen and androgen activity during puberty. Because the hormonal milieu normalizes as puberty progresses, the breast tissue typically regresses on its own within six to twenty-four months after the onset of symptoms. This natural course is why observation and reassurance are appropriate in most cases, rather than active treatment. The shorter timeframes would imply a rapid tissue change that isn’t consistent with pubertal physiology, while a span of five to ten years is longer than what is typically expected for pubertal gynecomastia to resolve. If symptoms persist beyond about two years, or if there are red flags such as asymmetry, hard or unilateral masses, or signs of systemic illness, further evaluation is warranted.

Adolescent gynecomastia comes from a temporary imbalance of estrogen and androgen activity during puberty. Because the hormonal milieu normalizes as puberty progresses, the breast tissue typically regresses on its own within six to twenty-four months after the onset of symptoms. This natural course is why observation and reassurance are appropriate in most cases, rather than active treatment.

The shorter timeframes would imply a rapid tissue change that isn’t consistent with pubertal physiology, while a span of five to ten years is longer than what is typically expected for pubertal gynecomastia to resolve. If symptoms persist beyond about two years, or if there are red flags such as asymmetry, hard or unilateral masses, or signs of systemic illness, further evaluation is warranted.