Question for the Doctors - Gilbert's Syndrome?

[DPGSenior]

Hi there. I was wondering if anyone knew of the mechanism by which Gilbert's syndrome would cause gynecomastia? Does it have to do with catecholamine production/prolactin, estradiol/estrogen over-conversion, poor androgen clearance? If anyone could help me out, I would appreciate it greatly.

[Paa_Paw]

Gilberts is a hereditary Liver condition.

While I do not understand the mechanics involved, The liver gets rid of Estrogen and people with diminished liver function have higher than usual levels of Estrogen.

We produce (and need) both Estrogen and Testosterone. The balance between the two is important. anything that could impair liver function could throw the balance off and the Estrogen level would be higher. Gynecomastia is common among heavy drinkers because of the impact that alcohol has upon the liver. The liver problem need not be chronic to have an effect. Binge drinkers have been found to have elevated Estrogen levels for several days after a binge.

Yours is a question worthy of serious study because Gilberts is not actually an uncommon condition.

Liver disease is commonly associated with Gynecomastia, but usually in an older population. Yours is the first reference I have seen to Gilberts Syndrome on these pages.

[DPGSenior]

Thank you very much for the response. I have GS and the puffy nips and galactorrhea. Maybe they are unrelated, but I would really like to know why they listed Gilbert's Syndrome on this website and on some others concerning gynecomastia surgery specifically, alluding to the possibility that the gynocomastia could return after surgery. If this is the case, GS seems a bit more serious than one would assume from the general opinion.

[Paa_Paw]

Are you seeing a Gastroenterologist or Endocrinologist?

The material I've been looking through suggests that one or both of these specialists would be your best bet for treatment.

The Galactorrhea could be a part of your overall symptoms, or could mean that there is a concurrent Pituitary problem. Again, an Endocrinologist would be indicated as your best source for treatment.

Many times on these pages we have councelled that sometimes gynecomastia can be an important symptom of other problems while it is not a physical problem in itself. The effects of gynecomastia usually being Psychological in nature. Your plight makes that point quite well.