A reproduction system is a group of internal and external body organs that work together for procreation. Because of its crucial role in species survival, the reproductive system is considered one of the most vital systems in the human body ( Hammer & McPhee, 2019) . The structure and functions of the reproductive system depend on the sex hormones and their antecedents. Different diseases can affect different parts of the female and male reproductive systems. This paper seeks to discuss Galactorrhea and Gynecomastia, their differences and similarities, and lastly, how gender impacts the diagnosis and treatment.
Galactorrhea
Galactorrhea is a milky discharge from the nipple that is not related to the average production of milk due to breastfeeding. This condition is common in women, even those who are not pregnant or have never had children. Galactorrhea can occur in men, women, and even children (Huether & McCance, 2017). This condition can be caused by pituitary glands disorders, excessive stimulation of the breasts, and side effects from medications. Galactorrhea often results from an increase in prolactin levels, which is the hormone that catalyzes the production of milk. In males, galactorrhea can be caused by a deficiency in testosterone levels ( Huang & Molitch, 2015) . Testosterone deficiencies may be caused by a lack of sexual urges or erectile dysfunction ( Hammer & McPhee, 2019) . Symptoms of galactorrhea include milky discharge from the nipple, irregular or absent menstrual periods, headaches, vision problems, and spontaneous leakage of nipple discharge.
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Gynecomastia
Males can also have issues with their breasts. Gynecomastia is a condition in men characterized by swelling or enlargement of breast tissue. The most common cause of Gynecomastia is an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen (Huether & McCance, 2017). Naturally, men produce small amounts of estrogen than women who produce lower amounts of testosterone. However, when estrogen levels in men are too high or altered, this causes gynecomastia. Many conditions can cause gynecomastia. These conditions include hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, obesity, lack of proper nutrition, Hypogonadism, tumors in adrenal glands or testicles, and hypoandrogenism (Sansone et al ., 2017) .
How Gender Impact Diagnosis and Treatment
Galactorrhea primarily occurs in women, while gynecomastia mainly occurs in women. In both conditions, alterations in the breast are caused by hormonal imbalances associated with systemic diseases, neoplasms, or side effects from drugs. Both genders are recommended to learn how to conduct breast self-examinations. Imaging scans, such as CT and MRI, can help diagnose these conditions. Diagnostic tests may be obtained from blood levels, estrogen levels, testosterone levels, luteinizing hormone, and thyroid-stimulating hormone. Treatment for both conditions stems from identification and usually includes medical therapy and interventions (Huether & McCance, 2017).
References
Hammer, G. D., & McPhee, S. J. (2019). Pathophysiology of disease: An introduction to clinical medicine (8th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education.
Huang, W., & Molitch, M. E. (2015). Evaluation and management of galactorrhea. American family physician , 85 (11), 1073.
Huether, S. E., & McCance, K. L. (2017). Understanding pathophysiology (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby.
Sansone, A., Romanelli, F., Sansone, M., Lenzi, A., & Di Luigi, L. (2017). Gynecomastia and hormones. Endocrine , 55 (1), 37-44.
