Answer:
Gynaecomastia occurs due to
1) Feedback inhibition of pituitary.
2) Conversion of exogenous androgens into estrogen (aromatization)
Substrate : Androgen
Product : Estradiol ( estrogen )
Enzyme involved : Aromatase
Explanation:
Gynaecomastia is a condition in which the mammary
glands, or breasts, enlarge and become sore and
tender to touch. It is due to the chemical change
in testosterone brought about by a process called
aromatisation, when the male hormone is converted
to a form of estrogen, the female sex hormone.
There is initially a sore feeling in the breast. A
skin ridge appears on the outer side of the areola
together with a halo appearance around the area
but no swelling. As the course continues, a swelling
develops and it becomes tender. Fatty tissue
builds up around the area and the breast becomes
prominent. At times there may be a secretion of
fluid from the nipple when it is squeezed. Steroids
should be stopped. If recovery does not occur by
the end of 2 months, surgery should be considered.
Other causes of gynaecomastia that may need to
be considered are the use of medications such as
Tagamet, a treatment for gastric problems, HCG and
spironolactone. Some body builders use this latter
drug to reduce body fluid. Occasionally boys in the
post-pubertal phase develop breast enlargement due
to endocrine imbalance totally unrelated to steroids.
Gynaecomastia also occurs as a result of feedback inhibition of the pituitary.
