Abstract

GYNECOMASTIA was first described by Basedow in 1848 (26). Since that time isolated reports of this condition have appeared in the literature. In 1938 Glass and Bergman (12) demonstrated that the ratio of the urinary androgens to the urinary estrogens in patients with gynecomastia was lower than normal, approaching the ratio found in females.

In 1942, Klinefelter, Reifenstein and Albright (20) presented a syndrome characterized by gynecomastia, aspermatogenesis, aleydigism and increased urinary excretion of the follicle stimulating hormone. They discussed the possible endocrine relationship in its etiology. Investigating similar cases in 1945, Heller and Nelson (15) showed that gynecomastia was not a constant sign of the syndrome and suggested a different etiology for the enlarged gland.

During World War II gynecomastia assumed the aspect of an occupational disability in the Armed Services because of the mechanical irritation of the enlarged gland and the psychic embarrassment resulting from communal living conditions.

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