What medical condition is characterized by the benign enlargement of male breast tissue?

Gynecomastia is the medical condition characterized by the benign enlargement of male breast tissue. This condition often results from an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen levels in the body, leading to the proliferation of glandular tissue in the male breast. It can occur during various life stages, such as puberty or in older age, and can be associated with certain hormonal changes, medications, or underlying health conditions. Understanding gynecomastia is important because it involves hormonal regulation and can sometimes reflect more significant health issues, although it is typically not a serious health concern.

The other conditions listed do not accurately describe this enlargement of breast tissue. Micromastia refers to underdeveloped breasts rather than enlargement. Hypermastectomy, though not a common term, would imply an excessive removal of breast tissue and is not related to benign tissue enlargement. Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue typically due to infection and is associated more with pain and swelling rather than benign enlargement.