Hypogonadism

Hypogonadism is the name given to the decrease of the serum testosterone levels biochemically and physiologically the testicular volume. It may be due to primary or secondary causes. The causes of primary hypogonadism are low testosterone levels, normal or high LH when FSH is secreted from the anterior pituitary gland.

An example of this is Klinefelter syndrome. Secondary hypogonadism results from low serum testosterone levels and low FSH and LH levels. An example of this condition is hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.

Why do men have hypogonadism?

Hypogonadism in men indicates low testosterone levels. Testosterone is produced in the testicles and is important for the formation of masculine features such as deepening of the voice, development of facial and body hair, and growth of the penis and testicles. A decrease in testosterone levels can occur due to conditions affecting the testicles, hypothalamus, or pituitary gland. Hypogonadism can occur at any age and different symptoms may occur depending on the time of onset of the disease.

Male hypogonadism can be divided into two groups:

Classic hypogonadism is when low testosterone levels are caused by a certain medical condition. Klinefelter syndrome, Kallmann syndrome, or pituitary tumors are examples of this condition.

There are two types of classic male hypogonadism.

Primary or primary hypogonadism; It occurs when low testosterone levels are caused by conditions affecting the testicles. Primary hypogonadism is also called hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. The pituitary gland produces too much luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the testicles to produce more testosterone. However, because there is a problem in the testicles, increased gonadotropin levels cannot be responded to and very little testosterone is produced. Some patients with primary hypogonadism may have testosterone levels in the normal range. However, increased LH and FSH hormones indicate that the pituitary gland is trying to correct a deficiency and treatment may be required. Inflammations such as mumps, chemotherapy or radiotherapy applied to the testicles,

Secondary or secondary hypogonadism is caused by conditions that affect the function of the pituitary gland. Also known as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism due to low LH and FSH levels, it causes decreased testosterone production. Conditions such as pituitary tumors and their treatment, isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, anabolic steroid use, Prader-Willi syndrome may lead to secondary hypogonadism.

late-onset hypogonadism; The decrease in testosterone level occurs due to aging or age-related diseases such as obesity and diabetes. The incidence in men over the age of 40 is approximately 2%.

What are the symptoms of hypogonadism?

Common symptoms of hypogonadism in men include:

• Lack of testicular development and enlargement of the penis
• delayed bone age
• Insufficient erection, loss of libido and poor sexual performance
• momentary tiredness
• Loss of motivation and concentration
• mood changes
• increased body fat
• growth of breast tissue
• Decreased muscle mass and physical strength
• Wrinkled appearance on the skin
• excessive sweating

What are the treatment methods of hypogonadism?

Testosterone supplements should be given to increase testosterone levels in men. Testosterone should not be given if the patient has prostate cancer. This is because the tumor is likely to grow faster. Before starting testosterone therapy, men over the age of 50 should have a blood test to measure a hormone produced by the prostate called prostate-specific antigen.

If hypogonadism is caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland; Radiation, medication, or surgery may be needed to shrink or remove the tumor.