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Endocrinopathies and Male Infertility. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 12:life12010010. [PMID: 35054403 PMCID: PMC8779600 DOI: 10.3390/life12010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility is approaching a concerning prevalence worldwide, and inflicts various impacts on the affected couple. The hormonal assessment is a vital component of male fertility evaluation as endocrine disorders are markedly reversible causatives of male infertility. Precise hormonal regulations are prerequisites to maintain normal male fertility parameters. The core male reproductive event, spermatogenesis, entails adequate testosterone concentration, which is produced via steroidogenesis in the Leydig cells. Physiological levels of both the gonadotropins are needed to achieve normal testicular functions. The hypothalamus-derived gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is considered the supreme inducer of the gonadotropins and thereby the subsequent endocrine reproductive events. This hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis may be modulated by the thyroidal or adrenal axis and numerous other reproductive and nonreproductive hormones. Disruption of this fine hormonal balance and their crosstalk leads to a spectrum of endocrinopathies, inducing subfertility or infertility in men. This review article will discuss the most essential endocrinopathies associated with male factor infertility to aid precise understanding of the endocrine disruptions-mediated male infertility to encourage further research to reveal the detailed etiology of male infertility and perhaps to develop more customized therapies for endocrinopathy-induced male infertility.
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Kallali W, Gray E, Mehdi MZ, Lindsay R, Metherell LA, Buonocore F, Suntharalingham JP, Achermann JC, Donaldson M. Long-term outcome of partial P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme deficiency in three brothers: the importance of early diagnosis. Eur J Endocrinol 2020; 182:K15-K24. [PMID: 31917682 PMCID: PMC7087497 DOI: 10.1530/eje-19-0696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE CYP11A1 mutations cause P450 side-chain cleavage (scc) deficiency, a rare form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia with a wide clinical spectrum. We detail the phenotype and evolution in a male sibship identified by HaloPlex targeted capture array. FAMILY STUDY The youngest of three brothers from a non-consanguineous Scottish family presented with hyperpigmentation at 3.7 years. Investigation showed grossly impaired glucocorticoid function with ACTH elevation, moderately impaired mineralocorticoid function, and normal external genitalia. The older brothers were found to be pigmented also, with glucocorticoid impairment but normal electrolytes. Linkage studies in 2002 showed that all three brothers had inherited the same critical regions of the maternal X chromosome suggesting an X-linked disorder, but analysis of NR0B1 (DAX-1, adrenal hypoplasia) and ABCD1 (adrenoleukodystrophy) were negative. In 2016, next-generation sequencing revealed compound heterozygosity for the rs6161 variant in CYP11A1 (c.940G>A, p.Glu314Lys), together with a severely disruptive frameshift mutation (c.790_802del, K264Lfs*5). The brothers were stable on hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone replacement, testicular volumes (15-20 mL), and serum testosterone levels (24.7, 33.3, and 27.2 nmol/L) were normal, but FSH (41.2 µ/L) was elevated in the proband. The latter had undergone left orchidectomy for suspected malignancy at the age of 25 years and was attending a fertility clinic for oligospermia. Initial histology was reported as showing nodular Leydig cell hyperplasia. However, histological review using CD56 staining confirmed testicular adrenal rest cell tumour (TART). CONCLUSION This kinship with partial P450scc deficiency demonstrates the importance of precise diagnosis in primary adrenal insufficiency to ensure appropriate counselling and management, particularly of TART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafa Kallali
- Children’s Hospital El Bechir Hamza of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ewan Gray
- David Elder Medical Practice, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Robert Lindsay
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Louise A Metherell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Federica Buonocore
- Genetics & Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jenifer P Suntharalingham
- Genetics & Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - John C Achermann
- Genetics & Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Malcolm Donaldson
- Child Health Section of University of Glasgow School of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to M Donaldson;
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Piskinpasa H, Ciftci Dogansen S, Kusku Cabuk F, Guzey D, Sahbaz NA, Akdeniz YS, Mert M. BILATERAL ADRENAL AND TESTICULAR MASS IN A PATIENT WITH CONGENITAL ADRENAL HYPERPLASIA. ACTA ENDOCRINOLOGICA-BUCHAREST 2019; -5:113-117. [PMID: 31149069 DOI: 10.4183/aeb.2019.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) autosomal recessive disorders characterized by impaired adrenal steroid hormone synthesis. The most common form is 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD). Testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs) are benign intratesticular masses that occur in male patients with CAH. TARTs are quite common in patients with 21OHD who were diagnosed late. Case report A 41-year-old male patient with CAH secondary to 21OHD. The patient was referred to our endocrinology department from the andrology clinic for bilateral adrenal masses. Bilateral orchiectomy had been performed due to bilateral testicular masses and azoospermia two years ago. The pathology was reported as Leydig cell tumor. In hormonal assessment, baseline cortisol levels were low, 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels with baseline and after cosyntropin stimulation test were high. As a result of clinic and laboratory assessment, the patient was diagnosed with simple virilising CAH due to 21OHD and adrenal insufficiency. Then, prednisolone replacement was initiated. Bilateral orchiectomy tissue blocks of the patient were re-assessed and were considered TART. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed bilateral adrenal masses with 88x55 mm on the right and 41x22 mm on the left. Laparoscopic right adrenalectomy was applied and pathology was reported as myelolipoma. Follow-up of the mass on the left adrenal gland is ongoing. The patient is monitored under prednisolone and testosterone replacement therapy. Early diagnosis of CAH is very important because of the complications it causes. It should be considered especially for bilateral testicular and/or adrenal masses. Both fertility and adrenal glands can be protected with an early diagnosis and an early glucocorticoid replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Piskinpasa
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital - Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - S Ciftci Dogansen
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital - Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - F Kusku Cabuk
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital - Department of Pathology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - D Guzey
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital - Department of General Surgery, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - N A Sahbaz
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital - Department of General Surgery, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Y S Akdeniz
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital - Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - M Mert
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital - Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul, Turkey
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Mazzilli R, Stigliano A, Delfino M, Olana S, Zamponi V, Iorio C, Defeudis G, Cimadomo D, Toscano V, Mazzilli F. The High Prevalence of Testicular Adrenal Rest Tumors in Adult Men With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Is Correlated With ACTH Levels. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:335. [PMID: 31214118 PMCID: PMC6558150 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of testicular-adrenal rest tumors (T-ARTs) in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and to evaluate the related ultrasound (US) features, hormonal profiles, and semen parameters. Therefore, we attempted to understand the potential impact of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) on the persistence or disappearance of T-ART. Methods: We conducted a longitudinal cohort study including patients with CAH who were undergoing treatment with cortisone and, when indicated, fludrocortisone replacement therapy. We performed andrological examinations, US of the testis, hormone profiling, and semen analysis. Results: Of the 25 patients (mean ± SD age, 32.2 ± 7.5 years), T-ARTs were detected by US in 14 (56.0%) patients. The mean ± SD diameter of the lesions was 13.2 ± 6.8 mm. Among 3 (21.4%) patients, the lesions were observed in one testis, whereas both testes were affected in the remaining 11 (78.6%) patients. The lesions were hypoechoic in 12 (85.7%) patients and hyperechoic in 2 (14.3%). Plasma ACTH and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) levels were significantly higher in patients with T-ART than in patients without lesions (319.4 ± 307.0 pg/ml and 12.4 ± 2.7 ng/ml vs. 33.5 ± 10.7 pg/ml and 8.2 ± 1.8 ng/ml, respectively; p < 0.01). The mean values of sperm concentration and motility were significantly lower in patients with T-ART than in patients without lesions (12.1 ± 12.4 × 106 cells/ml and 18.4 ± 11.1% vs. 41.5 ± 23.2 × 106 cells/ml and 30.8 ± 15.4%, respectively; p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed ACTH level as a significant predictor of T-ART (p < 0.05). In patients with T-ART, the dose of hydrocortisone was increased by ~25-30%, while the fludrocortisone treatment remained unchanged. After 6 months of steroid treatment, patients underwent US and hormonal evaluation. Disappearance and a reduction in T-ART were observed in 6 (42.9%) and 5 (35.7%) patients, respectively; a reduction in ACTH levels (from 319.4 ± 307.0 to 48.1 ± 5.1 pg/ml; p < 0.01) was reported. A significant correlation between ACTH level reduction and T-ART diameter reduction was observed (p < 0.5; r = 0.55). Conclusions: T-ARTs were detected in 56% of patients with CAH and were associated with impaired semen parameters. However, these lesions are potentially reversible, as demonstrated by the disappearance/reduction after adjustment of cortisone therapy and by the reduction in plasma ACTH level. Our study supports the importance of periodic US evaluation and maintenance of plasma ACTH levels within the normal range in men with CAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Mazzilli
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Rossella Mazzilli ;
| | - Antonio Stigliano
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Delfino
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Soraya Olana
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Virginia Zamponi
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Iorio
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Defeudis
- Unit of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Toscano
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | - Fernando Mazzilli
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
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Nistal M, Paniagua R, González-Peramato P, Reyes-Múgica M. Perspectives in Pediatric Pathology, Chapter 22. Testicular Involvement in Systemic Diseases. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2017; 19:431-451. [PMID: 25333836 DOI: 10.2350/14-09-1556-pb.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Normal testicular physiology requires appropriate function of endocrine glands and other tissues. Testicular lesions have been described in disorders involving the hypothalamus-hypophysis, thyroid glands, adrenal glands, pancreas, liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract. Testicular abnormalities can also associate with chronic anemia, obesity, and neoplasia. Although many of the disorders that affect the above-mentioned glands and tissues are congenital, acquired lesions may result in hypogonadism in children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Nistal
- 1 Department of Pathology, Hospital La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Ricardo Paniagua
- 2 Department of Cell Biology, Universidad de Alcala, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar González-Peramato
- 1 Department of Pathology, Hospital La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Miguel Reyes-Múgica
- 3 Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
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Naouar S, Braiek S, El Kamel R. Testicular tumors of adrenogenital syndrome: From physiopathology to therapy. Presse Med 2017; 46:572-578. [PMID: 28549629 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular tumor of adrenogenital syndrome is a rare and benign anomaly usually presenting as bilateral testicular masses. It is the most important cause of infertility in adult male congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Distinction between testicular tumors of adrenogenital syndrome and Leydig cell tumors can be problematic; it is based on clinical, histopathologic, immunohistochemical and endocrine features. Biopsy is advised in cases of longstanding tumors in infertile patients and when surgery is indicated. Fertility preservation is a key management goal in testicular tumor of adrenogenital syndrome. In stages 2 and 3, intensified glucocorticoid treatment is recommended as a first step treatment. Sparing surgical approach is preferred for tumors of stage 4 and steroid unresponsive masses. Magnetic resonance imaging is recommended before surgery. The only indication of surgery in stage 5 is testicular pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahbi Naouar
- Ibn El Jazzar teaching hospital, Les Aghlabides surgical division, urology department, 3100 Kairouan, Tunisia.
| | - Salem Braiek
- Ibn El Jazzar teaching hospital, Les Aghlabides surgical division, urology department, 3100 Kairouan, Tunisia
| | - Rafik El Kamel
- Ibn El Jazzar teaching hospital, Les Aghlabides surgical division, urology department, 3100 Kairouan, Tunisia
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Sha YK, Sha YW, Ding L, Liu WW, Song YQ, Lin J, He XM, Qiu PP, Zhang L, Li P. A Case of Bilateral Testicular Tumors Subsequently Diagnosed as Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2016; 9:574-80. [PMID: 26985347 PMCID: PMC4793180 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2015.4618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) caused congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a
group of autosomal recessive genetic disorders resulting from mutations in genes involved
with cortisol (CO) synthesis in the adrenal glands. Testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs)
are rarely the presenting symptoms of CAH. Here, we describe a case of simple virilizing
CAH with TARTs, in a 15-year-old boy. The patient showed physical signs of precocious
puberty. The levels of blood adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), urinary 17-ketone
steroids (17-KS), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), and serum progesterone
(PRGE) were elevated, whereas those of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing
hormone (LH), and CO were reduced. Computed tomography (CT) of the adrenal glands
and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the testes showed a soft tissue density (more
pronounced on the right side) and an irregularly swollen mass (more pronounced on the
left side), respectively. Pathological examination of a specimen of the mass indicated
polygonal/circular eosinophilic cytoplasm, cord-like arrangement of interstitial cells, and
lipid pigment in the cytoplasm. Immunohistochemistry results precluded a diagnosis of
Leydig cell tumors. DNA sequencing revealed a hackneyed homozygous mutation, I2g,
on intron 2 of the CYP21A2 gene. The patient’s symptoms improved after a three-month
of dexamethasone therapy. Recent radiographic data showed reduced hyperplastic adrenal nodules and testicular tumors. A diagnosis of TART should be considered and prioritized in CAH patients with testicular tumors. Replacement therapy using a sufficient
amount of dexamethasone in this case helps combat TART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Kun Sha
- Department of Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning Medical University, Jinzhou City 121000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yan-Wei Sha
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen City 361005, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Lu Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen City 361005, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Wei-Wu Liu
- Department of Radiation, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun City 130041, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yue-Qiang Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen City 361005, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jin Lin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen City 361005, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Xue-Mei He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen City 361005, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Ping-Ping Qiu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen City 361005, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen City 361005, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Ping Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen City 361005, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China
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Kavoussi PK, Summers-Colquitt RB, Odenwald KC, Kressin M, Kavoussi KM, Pool TB, Kavoussi SK. Sperm retrieval and concomitant tumor resection in azoospermic men with congenital adrenal hyperplasia and bilateral testicular adrenal rest tumors: a case report. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:545-8. [PMID: 26861965 PMCID: PMC4818631 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0665-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The objective of this study was to offer a new treatment approach for sperm retrieval simultaneously with tumor resection in azoospermic men with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), orchialgia, and bilateral testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs) who fail to respond to medical treatment. Methods This is a retrospective chart review from a couple’s fertility center. Results Between May 2013 and May 2015, two azoospermic men with CAH and bilateral TARTs, with orchialgia, and desire to conceive underwent bilateral TART resection in the same surgical setting as sperm retrieval after remaining azoospermic with normalization of gonadotropins with treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Both men had adequate sperm retrieved for in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm retrieval (IVF/ICSI) at the time of bilateral TART resections. They had complete TART resections with resolution of orchialgia. The wife of one patient had a successful pregnancy with use of retrieved sperm resulting in a live birth, and the sperm from the other man is cryopreserved for future use. Conclusions It is feasible to perform successful sperm retrieval simultaneously with TART resection in azoospermic men with CAH after medical treatments with persistent azoospermia, rather than subjecting these men to multiple invasive procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parviz K Kavoussi
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, 300 Beardsley Lane, Building B, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78746, USA.
| | - Roxanne B Summers-Colquitt
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, 300 Beardsley Lane, Building B, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78746, USA
| | - Kate C Odenwald
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, 300 Beardsley Lane, Building B, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78746, USA
| | - Megan Kressin
- Department of Pathology, St. David's South Austin Medical Center, 901 W. Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX, 78704, USA
| | - Keikhosrow M Kavoussi
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, 300 Beardsley Lane, Building B, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78746, USA
| | - Thomas B Pool
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, 300 Beardsley Lane, Building B, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78746, USA
| | - Shahryar K Kavoussi
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, 300 Beardsley Lane, Building B, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78746, USA
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Lekarev O, Lin-Su K, Vogiatzi MG. Infertility and Reproductive Function in Patients with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: Pathophysiology, Advances in Management, and Recent Outcomes. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2015; 44:705-22. [PMID: 26568487 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with congenital adrenal hyperplasia have reduced fertility. However, reproductive outcomes have improved over the years. This review provides an update on the multiple pathologic processes that contribute to reduced fertility in both sexes, from alterations of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis to the direct effect on gonadal function by elevated circulating adrenal androgens. In addition, elevated serum progesterone concentrations may hinder ovulation and embryo implantation in women, whereas in men testicular adrenal rest tumors can be a major cause of infertility. Suppression of adrenal androgen secretion represents the first line of therapy toward spontaneous conception in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Lekarev
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karen Lin-Su
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria G Vogiatzi
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Yu MK, Jung MK, Kim KE, Kwon AR, Chae HW, Kim DH, Kim HS. Clinical manifestations of testicular adrenal rest tumor in males with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Ann Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2015; 20:155-61. [PMID: 26512352 PMCID: PMC4623344 DOI: 10.6065/apem.2015.20.3.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In male patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), the presence of testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs) have been reported, however their prevalence and clinical manifestations are not well known. Untreated TARTs may lead to testicular structural damage and infertility. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of TARTs in male patients with CAH, and characterize the manifestations to identify contributing factors to TART. METHODS Among 102 CAH patients aged 0-30 years, 24 male patients have been regularly followed up in our outpatient clinic at Severance Children's Hospital from January 2000 to December 2014. In order to reveiw the characteristics of TART patients, we calculated the mean levels of hormones during the 5 years before the time of investigation. Five patients underwent follow-up scrotal ultrasonography (US) after adjusting the dosage of glucocorticoids. RESULTS TARTs were detected in 8 of the 13 patients (61.5%). The median age of TARTs diagnosis was 20.2 years with the youngest case being 15.5 years old. The mean serum level of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was higher in the TARTs patient group compared to the non-TARTs group (P<0.05). The tumor size decreased in 3 cases, slightly increased in 1 case, and had no change in another case. CONCLUSION The serum ACTH level might be associated with the growth promoting factor for TARTs, but the exact mechanism has not been clearly identified. Screening for TARTs using US is important in male patients with CAH for early-detection and prevention of ongoing complications, such as infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Kyung Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mo Kyung Jung
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki Eun Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ah Reum Kwon
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Wook Chae
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Duk Hee Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Sohwa Children's Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ho-Seong Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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12
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Ali HH, Samkari A, Arabi H. Testicular adrenal rest "tumor" or Leydig cell tumor? A report of a challenging case with literature review. Avicenna J Med 2013; 3:15-9. [PMID: 23984262 PMCID: PMC3752856 DOI: 10.4103/2231-0770.112789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) refers to group of inherited diseases resulting from impaired adrenal steroidogenesis, and its most common cause is 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs) are an important complication of CAH, which probably develop from ectopic remnants of intra-testicular adrenal tissue stimulated by Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) hypersecretion. These lesions are typically located within the rete testis and are bilateral, synchronous, nodular and multiple. TART usually, but not always, responses to suppressive medical therapy. TART leads to testicular structural damage, spermatogenesis disorders, infertility and most importantly, mass-forming lesions that could be mistaken for Leydig cell tumor (LCT). The later has a significantly different behavior with up to 10% of being malignant. Nowadays, due to advances in diagnosing and treating CAH, mass-forming TART is rarely encountered. As a result, there is the paucity in the medical literature regarding its features from pathological perspective. We herein present a case of mass-forming TART and we discuss the clinical, radiological, and morphological features as well as the major differential diagnosis of this rare lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba Hassan Ali
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdul-Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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13
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McLachlan RI. When is azoospermic infertility treatable without intracytoplasmic sperm injection? Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2013; 78:176-80. [PMID: 22998070 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Revised: 06/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Infertility with azoospermia requires a diligent search for reversible factors and treatment to restore natural fertility, even though most cases are due to untreatable primary spermatogenic failure and are destined to require consideration of assisted reproductive treatment (ART) options. Complete clinical and diagnostic evaluation is essential for avoiding both unnecessary ART and overlooking important co-morbidities. Gonadotrophin deficiency is the most treatable cause, resulting from drug effects or congenital or acquired disease, and medical therapy is highly efficacious. A range of uncommon endocrinocrinopathies may also result in reversible azoospermia. Finally, obstructive azoospermia may be surgically remediable in selected cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert I McLachlan
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
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14
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Papatya Çakır ED, Şentürk Mutlu F, Eren E, Paşa AÖ, Sağlam H, Tarım Ö. Testicular adrenal rest tumors in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. J Clin Res Pediatr Endocrinol 2012; 4:94-100. [PMID: 22672867 PMCID: PMC3386780 DOI: 10.4274/jcrpe.563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Early diagnosis and treatment of testicular adrenal rest tumors (TART) is important for gonadal functions and fertility protection in boys with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). In this descriptive study, we investigated the prevalence of TART in boys with 21-hydroxylase deficient (21OHD) CAH followed in our pediatric endocrine clinic. METHODS The study group consisted of 14 male patients with a mean age of 9.6 ± 5.1 (range: 0.8-18.3) years. Six (42.9%) of the 14 patients were diagnosed as having salt-wasting type (SW) and eight (57.1%) patients - as having the simple virilizing (SV) form of 21OHD. Mean age at diagnosis was 2.9 ± 2.7 (range: 0.03-6.3) years. Two different radiologists performed scrotal ultrasonography. Chronological age, bone age, and anthropometric measurements were evaluated. Serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) and androstenedione levels were also evaluated in all patients during the follow-up period. RESULTS Scrotal ultrasonography revealed bilateral TART in two patients (14.3%) and testicular microlithiasis (TM) in four patients (28.6%). One patient had both TART and TM bilaterally. During the follow-up period, the mean serum adrenocorticotropic hormone, 17OHP and androstenedione levels in the total group of patients were 130.0 ± 179.1 pg/mL (21.7-726.5), 5.8 ± 3.3 ng/mL (0.8-11.4) and 4.3 ± 4.1 (0.2-11.0) ng/mL, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Microlithiasis or TART may be frequently encountered during the follow-up of patients with CAH. In order to prevent late complications including infertility, we suggest that ultrasonographic evaluations be performed yearly in all male CAH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatma Şentürk Mutlu
- Uludağ University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Erdal Eren
- Uludağ University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Aliye Özlem Paşa
- Uludağ University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Halil Sağlam
- Uludağ University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Ömer Tarım
- Uludağ University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Bursa, Turkey
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15
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Delfino M, Elia J, Imbrogno N, Argese N, Mazzilli R, Toscano V, Mazzilli F. Testicular adrenal rest tumors in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: prevalence and sonographic, hormonal, and seminal characteristics. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2012; 31:383-388. [PMID: 22368128 DOI: 10.7863/jum.2012.31.3.383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Testicular adrenal rest tumors have been described in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). The aim of this work was to (1) evaluate the prevalence of testicular adrenal rest tumors in patients with CAH; (2) study the hormonal profile; (3) define the sonographic features; (4) assess the seminal profile; and (5) initiate a longitudinal study on the possible role of corticotropin (ACTH) plasma levels in the induction and persistence of testicular adrenal rest tumors. METHODS Eighteen patients affected by CAH, aged 21 to 41 years, were studied. These were all patients referred to our endocrinology unit for the first time to undergo a clinical evaluation. All of the patients were taking long-term cortisone acetate and fludrocortisone replacement therapy. The study included (1) a physical examination, (2) testis sonography, (3) a hormonal profile, (4) semen analysis. RESULTS Sonography showed testicular adrenal rest tumors in 11 patients (61.1%); of these, 9 cases (50.0%) were bilateral, and 2 (11.1%) were unilateral. The diameter ranged from 4 to 38 mm. In 9 patients, the lesions were hypoechoic, whereas in 2, they were hyperechoic. High plasma ACTH levels were detected in all of the patients with tumors despite long-term therapy. Semen analysis found 2 cases of azoospermia and 6 cases of oligoasthenoteratozoospermia; the 3 remaining patients were normospermic. The preliminary longitudinal study has shown 3 patients with a disappearance or reduction of the tumors after 6 months of modified treatment. CONCLUSIONS This study confirms the high prevalence of testicular adrenal rest tumors in patients with CAH and the major role played in its pathogenesis by high plasma ACTH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Delfino
- Department of Medical and Molecular Medicine, Unit of Andrology, Sant’Andrea Hospital, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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16
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Jin HY, Choi JH, Kim GH, Lee CS, Yoo HW. Testicular adrenal rest tumors in a patient with untreated congenital adrenal hyperplasia. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2011; 54:137-40. [PMID: 21738545 PMCID: PMC3121001 DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2011.54.3.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2010] [Revised: 10/10/2010] [Accepted: 10/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs) are considered to be formed from aberrant adrenal tissue that has become hyperplastic because of elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in male patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). A 6-year-old boy presented with testicular enlargement and pubic hair. He was diagnosed with CAH complicated by precocious puberty. However, he was not followed-up. At the age of 17, he visited the outpatient clinic because of testicular enlargement and short stature. His right and left testicles were 10×6 cm and 7.5×4.5 cm, respectively. His height was 155.1 cm (standard deviation score [SDS], -2.90). The diagnosis of CAH due to 21 hydroxylase deficiency was confirmed by mutation analysis of CYP21A2. Histological examination of the testes showed large, polygonal, eosinophilic cells with round nuclei and prominent nucleoli, which were suggestive of TARTs. He was treated with dexamethasone for 3 weeks and tumors regressed. Subsequently, dexamethasone was replaced by prednisolone and 9α-fludrocortisone; thereafter, the reduced testis size has been maintained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Young Jin
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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17
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Marchini GS, Cocuzza M, Pagani R, Torricelli FC, Hallak J, Srougi M. Testicular adrenal rest tumor in infertile man with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: case report and literature review. SAO PAULO MED J 2011; 129:346-51. [PMID: 22069134 PMCID: PMC10868949 DOI: 10.1590/s1516-31802011000500010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2010] [Revised: 08/03/2010] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Synthesis of cortisol and aldosterone is impaired in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) because of 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Men with CAH have low fertility rates compared with the normal population, and this is related to testicular adrenal rest tumors. Findings of azoospermia in combination with a testicular tumor on ultrasound are likely to have a mechanical cause, especially when in the testicular mediastinum. The preferred treatment method consists of intensive corticoid therapy. However, when the tumor is unresponsive to steroid therapy, surgical treatment should be considered. CASE REPORT We present the case of a male patient with CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency who presented a testicular tumor and azoospermia. Treatment with low daily corticoid doses had previously been started by an endocrinologist, but after 12 months, no significant change in sperm count was found. Although the adrenocorticotrophic hormone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels returned to normal values, the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone and testosterone levels remained unchanged. Ultrasound examination confirmed that the testicles were small and heterogenous bilaterally, and revealed a mosaic area at the projection of the testis network bilaterally. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the finding. Testicular biopsy revealed the presence of preserved spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis in 20% of the seminiferous tubules in the right testicle. The patient underwent testis-sparing tumor resection. After 12 months of follow-up, there was no tumor recurrence but the patient still presented azoospermia and joined an intracytoplasmic sperm injection program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Scala Marchini
- Department of Urology, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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18
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Jin HY, Choi JH, Kim GH, Lee CS, Yoo HW. Testicular adrenal rest tumors in a patient with untreated congenital adrenal hyperplasia. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2011. [DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2011.54.3.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hye Young Jin
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Ho Choi
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gu Hwan Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical Genetics Clinic and Laboratory, Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chung Sik Lee
- Department of Pathology, Chungnam National University Hospital, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Han Wook Yoo
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical Genetics Clinic and Laboratory, Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Kang MJ, Kim JH, Lee SH, Lee YA, Shin CH, Yang SW. The prevalence of testicular adrenal rest tumors and associated factors in postpubertal patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia caused by 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Endocr J 2011; 58:501-8. [PMID: 21521928 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.k11e-034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of a testicular adrenal rest tumor (TART) is common in males with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and it can be an important cause of infertility. In the present study, we observed the prevalence of TARTs, and analyzed its associated factors in patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Testicular ultrasonography was performed in 48 postpubertal male patients aged 10.6 to 27.1 years. To determine whether patients were undertreated, we analyzed the serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) levels to the time of ultrasonographic measurement and calculated the percentage of measurements when serum 17-OHP level was >10 ng/mL relative to the total number of measurements during the follow-up period. We divided the 6-year period before ultrasonographic measurement (time 0) into three 2-year intervals and calculated the average concentration of serum 17-OHP in each interval to give a -2(nd) to 0 year-average concentration (-2-0YAC), -4-2YAC and -6-4YAC. A TART was detected by ultrasonography in 31 of 48 patients (64.6%) and the median maximal cross-sectional area of the TARTs was 0.71 (0.03, 4.95) cm(2). The corrected final adult height was lower, and -4-2YAC and body mass index were higher in patients with TART than in those without. After controlling for the type of 21-hydroxylase deficiency, hydrocortisone-equivalent dose, age, and -6-4YAC, the size of TART was associated with a high undertreatment percentage with a marginal statistical significance. These results suggest that strict disease control is mandatory and regular examination with testicular ultrasonography is recommended in male patients, regardless of the type of 21-hydroxylase deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jae Kang
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 110-769, Korea
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20
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Abstract
In the biosynthesis of steroid hormones the neutral lipid cholesterol, a normal constituent of lipid bilayers is transformed via a series of hydroxylation, oxidation, and reduction steps into a vast array of biologically active compounds: mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and sex hormones. Glucocorticoids regulate many aspects of metabolism and immune function, whereas mineralocorticoids help maintain blood volume and control renal excretion of electrolytes. Sex hormones are essential for sex differentiation in male and support reproduction. They include androgens, estrogens, and progestins. A block in the pathway of steroid biosynthesis leads to the lack of hormones downstream and accumulation of the upstream compounds that can activate other members of the steroid receptor family. This review deals with the clinical consequences of these blocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Biason-Lauber
- University Children's Hospital, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Steinwiesstrasse 75, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland.
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21
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Fernandes VO, Barros AIS, Quidute ARP, Montenegro APDR, Fontenele EGP, Sales APAM, Montenegro RM, Ferreira FVDA, Montenegro RM. [Bilateral testicular tumors caused by congenital adrenal rest hyperplasia]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 53:1052-8. [PMID: 20126861 DOI: 10.1590/s0004-27302009000800022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2009] [Accepted: 11/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Testicular tumors are a rare condition associated with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), originated from intratesticular adrenal rest tumors, and they are rarely associated with malignant tumors. Their histological differentiation from Leydig-cell tumors is quite difficult, which would lead to inappropriate orchiectomies. Thus the objective of this report was to present this diagnostic dilemma. METHODS Reported the case of 16-yr-old boy with previous diagnosis of CAH with bilateral testicular enlargement who was recommended to be submitted to a bilateral orchiectomy. RESULTS Considering this findings, it was decided to treat conventionally with prednisone with significant reduction of testicular volume, and normalization of androgens levels. CONCLUSION This case shows the importance of intratesticular adrenal rest tumors in the differential diagnosis of testicular tumors. Cautious approach during investigation and treatment are recommended to avoid inappropriate orchiectomies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Oliveira Fernandes
- Serviço de Endocrinologia e Diabetes, Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
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22
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Claahsen-van der Grinten HL, Otten BJ, Stikkelbroeck MML, Sweep FCGJ, Hermus ARMM. Testicular adrenal rest tumours in congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 23:209-20. [PMID: 19500764 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2008.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In adult patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) the presence of testicular adrenal rest tumours (TART) is an important cause of gonadal dysfunction and infertility. In the last decade several papers have focused on the origin and pathogenesis of these tumours. In this paper we review the embryological, histological, biochemical and clinical features of TART and discuss the treatment options. Furthermore, we propose a new five-stage classification of TART, based on sonographic, clinical and biochemical parameters, that may lead to a better follow up and treatment of patients with TART.
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23
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Testicular adrenal rest tumours in congenital adrenal hyperplasia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY 2009; 2009:624823. [PMID: 19956703 PMCID: PMC2777016 DOI: 10.1155/2009/624823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2009] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In adult patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), the presence
of testicular adrenal rest tumours (TART) is an important complication leading to
gonadal dysfunction and infertility. These tumours can be already found in childhood and puberty. In this paper, we review the embryological, histological, biochemical,
and clinical features of TART and discuss treatment options.
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24
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Martinez-Aguayo A, Rocha A, Rojas N, García C, Parra R, Lagos M, Valdivia L, Poggi H, Cattani A. Testicular adrenal rest tumors and Leydig and Sertoli cell function in boys with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2007; 92:4583-9. [PMID: 17895312 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2007-0383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Infertility observed in adult males with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) has been associated with testicular adrenal rest tumors (TART) that may originate during childhood. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to describe the prevalence of TART and Sertoli and Leydig cell function in a group of boys aged 2-10 yr with CAH and to compare prevalence with that of a control group. DESIGN From August 2005 to January 2007, 19 patients with classical CAH (CAH group) were referred from seven endocrinology centers. METHODS We studied 19 subjects in the CAH group and, as a control group, 13 boys from the community that did not have testicular diseases. A complete physical exam was performed. High-resolution ultrasound was used to determine TART prevalence. Inhibin B and anti-Müllerian hormone were used as Sertoli cell markers. The ratio between basal testosterone levels and testosterone levels 72 h after beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (5000 U/m2) treatment [(T72- T0)/T0] was used to evaluate Leydig cell response. RESULTS CAH and control groups were comparable in chronological age (5.9 vs. 5.6 yr; P = 0.67) and bone age/chronological age ratio (1.09 vs. 1.03; P = 0.09). TART prevalence was four of 19 (21%) in the CAH group. Lower values for inhibin B (49.2. vs. 65.2 pg/ml; P = 0.018), anti-Müllerian hormone (70.1 vs. 94.2 ng/ml; P = 0.002), and (T72- T0)/T0 (5.6 vs. 13.6; P < 0.01) were observed in the CAH group. CONCLUSION TART in prepubertal males with classic CAH could be found during childhood. We also report differences in markers of gonadal function in a subgroup of patients, especially in those with inadequate control.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Martinez-Aguayo
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 833-0074, Santiago, Chile.
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Ribagnac M, Brac De La Perrière A, Lyonnet D, Rouvière O. [Testicular adrenal rests: the role of imaging]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 88:631-8. [PMID: 17541355 DOI: 10.1016/s0221-0363(07)89869-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Testicular adrenal rests are encountered in ACTH hypersecretion syndromes, most often in congenital adrenal hyperplasia attributable to a deficit in 21-hydroxylase. They are discovered clinically or on systematic sonography, generally in the young adult. On sonography, they appear as confluent hypoechogenic masses, often bilateral, that have developed in the region of the testicular hilum. At a late stage, they take on a highly suggestive attenuating aspect. In color Doppler, they have a regular vascular architecture. They generally regress or stabilize with replacement glucocorticosteroid treatment. They can sometimes progress, which then poses the problem of the type of lesion. Biopsy or spermatic vein samples are not reliable. MRI contributes very little more than sonography. Diagnosis comes with follow-up or, as a last resort, orchidectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ribagnac
- Service de Radiologie Urinaire et Vasculaire, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, 69437 Lyon
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Claahsen-van der Grinten HL, Otten BJ, Sweep FC, Hermus AR. Repeated successful induction of fertility after replacing hydrocortisone with dexamethasone in a patient with congenital adrenal hyperplasia and testicular adrenal rest tumors. Fertil Steril 2007; 88:705.e5-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.11.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2006] [Revised: 11/21/2006] [Accepted: 11/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Torresani T, Biason-Lauber A. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: diagnostic advances. J Inherit Metab Dis 2007; 30:563-75. [PMID: 17694353 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-007-0696-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2007] [Revised: 06/20/2007] [Accepted: 06/20/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is a group of autosomal recessive disorders resulting from the deficiency of one of the five enzymes required for the synthesis of cortisol in the adrenal cortex. The most frequent is steroid 21-hydroxylase deficiency, accounting for more than 90% of cases. Much has been learned about the genetics of the various clinical forms of 21-hydroxylase deficiency, and correlations between the genotype and the phenotype have been studied extensively. Gene-specific diagnosis is now feasible and neonatal screening and prenatal treatment have been widely implemented. This discussion will be limited to the most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, with focus on the diagnostic advances in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Torresani
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, University Children's Hospitals, Zurich, Switzerland.
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28
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Claahsen-van der Grinten HL, Otten BJ, Hermus ARMM, Sweep FCGJ, Hulsbergen-van de Kaa CA. Testicular adrenal rest tumors in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia can cause severe testicular damage. Fertil Steril 2007; 89:597-601. [PMID: 17543962 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2006] [Revised: 03/15/2007] [Accepted: 03/15/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the histological features of testicular tumors and residual testicular parenchyma in male patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and longstanding bilateral testicular adrenal rest tumors (TART). DESIGN Descriptive study. SETTING University medical center in the Netherlands. PATIENT(S) Seven male patients who had CAH with longstanding bilateral TART and who were treated with testis-sparing surgery. INTERVENTION(S) Enucleation of TART and taking biopsies of the surrounding testicular parenchyma. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Description of the histological features of TART and residual testicular parenchyma. RESULT(S) All tumors had a similar histological appearance, with sheets of polygonal cells separated by dense fibrous tissue with focal lymphocytic infiltrates and without Reinke crystals. All biopsies showed a decrease in tubular diameter with peritubular fibrosis and, in four patients, tubular hyalinization. The germinative layer showed decreased spermatogenesis and reduced Johnsen scores. CONCLUSION(S) Testicular adrenal rest tumors can lead to end-stage damage of testicular parenchyma, most probably as a result of longstanding obstruction of the seminiferous tubules. Therefore, treatment at an early stage is advised.
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Sugino Y, Usui T, Okubo K, Nagahama K, Takahashi T, Okuno H, Hatayama H, Ogawa O, Shimatsu A, Nishiyama H. Genotyping of congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency presenting as male infertility: case report and literature review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2006; 23:377-80. [PMID: 17033937 PMCID: PMC3455103 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-006-9062-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2006] [Accepted: 08/07/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe here two infertile male patients who were referred to our hospital with azoospermia at the ages of 33 and 30 years, respectively. Hormonal examinations led to a diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency in both patients. Genotyping revealed that the patients had a homozygous I172N and a heterozygous compound I172N/IVS2-13A/C>G mutation, respectively. Glucocorticoid replacement therapy succeeded in improving the seminal status of one patient, but not the other. For the latter patient and his wife, a pregnancy was achieved by testicular sperm extraction (TESE) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) following genetic counseling. It is important to investigate genotyping and to classify patients on the basis of genotypic information in order to arrive at better treatment strategies for male infertility; especially in counseling of TESE-ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y. Sugino
- />Department of Urology, Kyoto University, Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - T. Usui
- />Clinical Research Center and The Department of Urology, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - K. Okubo
- />Department of Urology, Kyoto University, Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - K. Nagahama
- />Department of Urology, Kyoto University, Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - T. Takahashi
- />Department of Urology, Kyoto University, Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - H. Okuno
- />The Department of Urology, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - H. Hatayama
- />Department of Gynecology, Adachi Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - O. Ogawa
- />Department of Urology, Kyoto University, Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - A. Shimatsu
- />Clinical Research Center and The Department of Urology, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - H. Nishiyama
- />Department of Urology, Kyoto University, Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
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Claahsen-van der Grinten HL, Stikkelbroeck NMML, Sweep CGJ, Hermus ARMM, Otten BJ. Fertility in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2006; 19:677-85. [PMID: 16789634 DOI: 10.1515/jpem.2006.19.5.677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is generally regarded as a paediatric endocrine disease, but nowadays nearly all patients reach adulthood as a result of improved diagnosis and treatment. It is now increasingly recognised that treatment goals shift during life: one of the major treatment goals in childhood and puberty, i.e. normal growth and development, is no longer relevant after childhood, whereas other aspects, such as fertility and side effects of long-term glucocorticoid treatment, become more important in adulthood. This paper focuses on fertility in male and female adult patients with CAH. In males with CAH the fertility rate is reduced compared with the normal population, the most frequent cause being testicular adrenal rest tumours. Development and growth of these tumours is assumed to be ACTH dependent and undertreatment may play an important role. If intensifying glucocorticoid treatment does not lead to tumour decrease, surgical intervention may be considered, but the effect on fertility is not yet known. In females with CAH the degree of fertility depends on the phenotype of the CAH. Most fertility problems are seen in the classic salt-wasting type. Age of menarche and regularity of the menstrual cycle depends on the degree of adrenal suppression. Not only adrenal androgens have to be normalised but also the levels of adrenal progestins (progesterone and 17-OH-progesterone) that interfere with normal ovulatory cycles. The regularity of menstrual cycles can be considered as an important measure of therapeutic control in adolescent females with CAH and therefore as a therapeutic goal from (peri)pubertal years on. Other factors that contribute to impaired fertility in females with CAH are ovarian hyperandrogenism (polycystic ovary syndrome), ovarian adrenal rest tumours, genital surgery and psychological factors. Subfertility in CAH can have its origin already in the peripubertal years and is therefore of interest to the paediatric endocrinologist.
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Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to deficiency of 21-hydroxylase is a disorder of the adrenal cortex characterised by cortisol deficiency, with or without aldosterone deficiency, and androgen excess. Patients with the most severe form also have abnormalities of the adrenal medulla and epinephrine deficiency. The severe classic form occurs in one in 15,000 births worldwide, and the mild non-classic form is a common cause of hyperandrogenism. Neonatal screening for CAH and gene-specific prenatal diagnosis are now possible. Standard hormone replacement fails to achieve normal growth and development for many children with CAH, and adults can experience iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome, hyperandrogenism, infertility, or the development of the metabolic syndrome. This Seminar reviews the epidemiology, genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of CAH, and provides an overview of clinical challenges and future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah P Merke
- Pediatric and Reproductive Endocrinology Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1932, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis W Speiser
- Department of Pediatrics, Schneider Children's Hospital-North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System, New Hyde Park, NY 11042, USA.
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