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Howard SR, Quinton R. Outcomes and experiences of adults with congenital hypogonadism can inform improvements in the management of delayed puberty. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2024; 37:1-7. [PMID: 37997801 PMCID: PMC10775020 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2023-0407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Patients with congenital hypogonadism will encounter many health care professionals during their lives managing their health needs; from antenatal and infantile periods, through childhood and adolescence, into adult life and then old age. The pubertal transition from childhood to adult life raises particular challenges for diagnosis, therapy and psychological support, and patients encounter many pitfalls. Many patients with congenital hypogonadism and delayed or absent puberty are only diagnosed and treated after long diagnostic journeys, and their management across different centres and countries is not well standardised. Here we reconsider the management of pubertal delay, whilst addressing problematic diagnostic issues and highlighting the limitations of historic pubertal induction protocols - from the perspective of both an adult and a paediatric endocrinologist, dealing in our everyday work with the long-term adverse consequences to our hypogonadal patients of an incorrect and/or late diagnosis and treatment in childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha R. Howard
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Richard Quinton
- Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
- Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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2
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Hazell P, Balzer BWR, Garden F, Handelsman DJ, Paxton K, Hawke C, Ivers R, Skinner SR, Luscombe G, Steinbeck KS. Association of urinary sex hormones with mood and behavior changes in a community adolescent cohort. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293040. [PMID: 37844097 PMCID: PMC10578568 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the contribution of variation in sex hormone excretion to mood and behavioral changes in adolescent females and males. DESIGN Prospective, longitudinal observational cohort study. METHODS Participants were 342 volunteers aged 10-12 years living in rural Australia. Urinary estradiol and testosterone levels measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry were obtained at three-month intervals for three years. Integrated measures (area-under-curve) of urinary steroid excretion summarised as absolute and variability during each 12-month period of the study. Psychosocial data were gathered annually with the primary outcome of depressive symptomatology. Secondary outcomes were the other subscales of the Youth Self-Report, impulsive-aggression, sleep habits, and self-harm. RESULTS 277 (158 male) participants contributed data over the full duration of the study and could be included in the analyses. In females, analyses of absolute urine hormone levels found no relationship between estradiol and any outcome, but higher testosterone was significantly associated with depression and poorer sleep. Greater variability of both urine estradiol and testosterone was associated with lower total psychopathology, anxious/depressed and social problems scores. Greater variability in urine estradiol was associated with lower attention problems and impulsive aggression in females. In males, higher testosterone and estradiol levels were associated with rule-breaking, and poorer sleep, and no associations were found for gonadal hormone variability for males. CONCLUSIONS Longitudinal measurement of both iso-sexual and contra-sexual gonadal hormones contributes to a more nuanced view of the impact of sex steroids on mood and behavior in adolescents. These findings may enlighten the understanding of the impact of sex steroids during normal male and female puberty with implications for hormone replacement therapies as well as management of common mood and behavioral problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Hazell
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Medicine, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Ben W. R. Balzer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Medicine, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- The University of New South Wales Faculty of Medicine, School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Randwick, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Frances Garden
- Ingham Institute for Medical Research, The University of New South Wales, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - David J. Handelsman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Medicine, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Karen Paxton
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Medicine, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Catherine Hawke
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Medicine, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca Ivers
- The University of New South Wales Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - S. Rachel Skinner
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Medicine, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Georgina Luscombe
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Medicine, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Katharine S. Steinbeck
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney School of Medicine, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Delayed puberty, defined as the appearance of pubertal signs after the age of 14 years in males, usually affects psychosocial well-being. Patients and their parents show concern about genital development and stature. The condition is transient in most of the patients; nonetheless, the opportunity should not be missed to diagnose an underlying illness. AREAS COVERED The aetiologies of pubertal delay in males and their specific pharmacological therapies are discussed in this review. EXPERT OPINION High-quality evidence addressing the best pharmacological therapy approach for each aetiology of delayed puberty in males is scarce, and most of the current practice is based on small case series or unpublished experience. Male teenagers seeking attention for pubertal delay most probably benefit from medical treatment to avoid psychosocial distress. While watchful waiting is appropriate in 12- to 14-year-old boys when constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CGDP) is suspected, hormone replacement should not be delayed beyond the age of 14 years in order to avoid impairing height potential and peak bone mass. When primary or central hypogonadism is diagnosed, hormone replacement should be proposed by the age of 12 years provided that a functional central hypogonadism has been ruled out. Testosterone replacement regimens have been used for decades and are fairly standardised. Aromatase inhibitors have arisen as an interesting alternative for boy with CDGP and short stature. Gonadotrophin therapy seems more physiological in patients with central hypogonadism, but its relative efficacy and most adequate timing still need to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo A Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Histología, Embriología, Biología Celular y Genética, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Federici S, Goggi G, Quinton R, Giovanelli L, Persani L, Cangiano B, Bonomi M. New and Consolidated Therapeutic Options for Pubertal Induction in Hypogonadism: In-depth Review of the Literature. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:824-851. [PMID: 34864951 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Delayed puberty (DP) defines a retardation of onset/progression of sexual maturation beyond the expected age from either a lack/delay of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis activation or a gonadal failure. DP usually gives rise to concern and uncertainty in patients and their families, potentially affecting their immediate psychosocial well-being and also creating longer term psychosexual sequelae. The most frequent form of DP in younger teenagers is self-limiting and may not need any intervention. Conversely, DP from hypogonadism requires prompt and specific treatment that we summarize in this review. Hormone therapy primarily targets genital maturation, development of secondary sexual characteristics, and the achievement of target height in line with genetic potential, but other key standards of care include body composition and bone mass. Finally, pubertal induction should promote psychosexual development and mitigate both short- and long-term impairments comprising low self-esteem, social withdrawal, depression, and psychosexual difficulties. Different therapeutic options for pubertal induction have been described for both males and females, but we lack the necessary larger randomized trials to define the best approaches for both sexes. We provide an in-depth and updated literature review regarding therapeutic options for inducing puberty in males and females, particularly focusing on recent therapeutic refinements that better encompass the heterogeneity of this population, and underlining key differences in therapeutic timing and goals. We also highlight persistent shortcomings in clinical practice, wherein strategies directed at "the child with delayed puberty of uncertain etiology" risk being misapplied to older adolescents likely to have permanent hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Federici
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Goggi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 4LP, UK.,Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 4EP, UK
| | - Luca Giovanelli
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Biagio Cangiano
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
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Rodanaki M, Rask E, Lodefalk M. Delayed puberty in boys in central Sweden: an observational study on diagnosing and management in clinical practice. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057088. [PMID: 35115358 PMCID: PMC8814808 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the usefulness of the classical definition of delayed puberty (DP) in boys with puberty nomograms and to describe the management of DP in boys in a hospital-based setting. STUDY DESIGN Observational retrospective multicentre study with a short-term follow-up. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Boys diagnosed with DP during 2013-2015 at paediatric departments in four counties in central Sweden. The medical records of 165 boys were reviewed. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Number of boys with DP after re-evaluation of the diagnosis according to the classical definition in comparison with puberty nomograms. Description of investigations performed and treatment provided to boys with DP. RESULTS In total, 45 and 58 boys were found to have DP according to the classical definition and the nomograms, respectively. Biochemical and/or radiological testing was performed in 91% of the 58 boys, but an underlying disease was only found in 9% of them. Approximately 79% of the boys received testosterone treatment, either as injections of testosterone enanthate or as testosterone undecanoate. CONCLUSIONS Puberty nomograms may be helpful instruments when diagnosing pubertal disorders in boys as they are not limited to an age close to 14 years and also identify boys with pubertal arrest. The majority of boys with DP undergo biochemical or radiological examinations, but underlying diseases are unusual emphasising the need for structural clinical practice guidelines for this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rodanaki
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Eva Rask
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- University Health Care Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Maria Lodefalk
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- University Health Care Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Jayasena CN, Anderson RA, Llahana S, Barth JH, MacKenzie F, Wilkes S, Smith N, Sooriakumaran P, Minhas S, Wu FCW, Tomlinson J, Quinton R. Society for Endocrinology guidelines for testosterone replacement therapy in male hypogonadism. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 96:200-219. [PMID: 34811785 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Male hypogonadism (MH) is a common endocrine disorder. However, uncertainties and variations in its diagnosis and management exist. There are several current guidelines on testosterone replacement therapy that have been driven predominantly by single disciplines. The Society for Endocrinology commissioned this new guideline to provide all care providers with a multidisciplinary approach to treating patients with MH. This guideline has been compiled using expertise from endocrine (medical and nursing), primary care, clinical biochemistry, urology and reproductive medicine practices. These guidelines also provide a patient perspective to help clinicians best manage MH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Channa N Jayasena
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Sofia Llahana
- School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London & Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, University College London Hospitals (UCLH) NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julian H Barth
- Specialist Laboratory Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Finlay MacKenzie
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Scott Wilkes
- School of Medicine, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, UK
| | | | - Prasanna Sooriakumaran
- Department of Uro-oncology, UCLH NHS Foundation Trust, London & Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sukhbinder Minhas
- Department of Urology, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Frederick C W Wu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Jeremy Tomlinson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust & Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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Swee DS, Quinton R. Current concepts surrounding neonatal hormone therapy for boys with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2022; 17:47-61. [PMID: 34994276 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2022.2023008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a genetic disorder of reproduction and development, characterized by deficient gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion or action, affecting 1-in-4,000-15,000 males. Micropenis and undescended testes are cardinal features of antenatal GnRH deficiency and could indicate absent minipuberty in the first postnatal months. In this review, we outline the pathophysiology and clinical consequences of absent minipuberty and its implications for optimal approaches to the endocrine management of affected boys. AREAS COVERED Deficient GnRH activity during fetal development and neonatal-infancy phase of minipuberty accounts for the diminished mass of Sertoli cells and seminiferous tubules among CHH males, enduring impairment of reproductive function even during gonadotropin replacement in adult life. In overcoming this obstacle, several clinical studies of neonatal gonadotropin replacement have consistently shown positive results in inducing testicular development and correcting cryptorchidism. EXPERT OPINION A high index of clinical suspicion, combined with hormonal testing undertaken in the postnatal period of 1-4 months, can reliably confirm or refute the diagnosis of CHH. Timely identification of CHH in affected male infants (having characteristic "red flag' developmental anomalies) opens up the possibility for gonadotropin replacement as a targeted therapy to restore the normal hormonal milieu of minipuberty. Further work is necessary in formulating optimal gonadotropin treatment regimens to be more widely adopted in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Du Soon Swee
- Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
- Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK
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8
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Abstract
Many of the recent advances in our understanding of human reproductive biology and its genetic basis have arisen directly via the genetic investigation of patients with Kallmann syndrome and their families. The disease is characterised by the association of an isolated defect in the secretion (or, less commonly, action) of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and consequent infertility, with anosmia and potentially other associated non-reproductive features. GnRH-producing neurons are located in the hypothalamic brain region after a peculiar migration during embryonic life. To date, different genes affecting GnRH neuron development/migration have so far been implicated in Kallmann syndrome, but our knowledge of the genetic basis of the syndrome remains incomplete. From a clinical point of view, the disease has suffered from a lack of definitive diagnosis and treatment, and although progress has been made in terms of timely diagnosis and evidence-based treatment of patients, implementation remains inconsistent. These aspects will be discussed in this review, which examines new strategies for arriving at more evidence-based and patient-centred medical practice in Kallmann syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Du Soon Swee
- Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
- Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Roberto Maggi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, MI, Italy
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Stancampiano MR, Lucas-Herald AK, Russo G, Rogol AD, Ahmed SF. Testosterone Therapy in Adolescent Boys: The Need for a Structured Approach. Horm Res Paediatr 2020; 92:215-228. [PMID: 31851967 DOI: 10.1159/000504670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In adolescents, testosterone may have several effects including promotion of secondary sexual characteristics and pubertal growth, attainment of optimal muscle mass and peak bone mass, optimization of the metabolic profile, and psychosocial maturation and well-being. SUMMARY Testosterone therapy is a cornerstone of the management of hypogonadism in boys. Since the initial report of the chemical synthesis of testosterone, several formulations have continued to develop, and although many of these have been used in boys, none of them have been studied in detail in this age group. Given the wide ranging effects of testosterone, the level of evidence for their effects in boys and the heterogeneity of conditions that lead to early-onset hypogonadism, a standardized protocol for monitoring testosterone replacement in this age group is needed. Key Messages: In this review, we focus on the perceived benefits of androgen replacement in boys affected by pubertal delay and highlight the need to improve the health monitoring of boys who receive androgen replacement therapy, proposing different approaches based on the underlying pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Rita Stancampiano
- Department of Pediatrics, Endocrine Unit, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy, .,Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom,
| | - Angela K Lucas-Herald
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Gianni Russo
- Department of Pediatrics, Endocrine Unit, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Alan D Rogol
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - S Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Chen YW, Niu YH, Xu H, Wang DQ, Jiang HY, Pokhrel G, Wang T, Wang SG, Liu JH. Testosterone undecanoate supplementation together with human chorionic gonadotropin does not impair spermatogenesis in males with isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: a retrospective study. Asian J Androl 2020; 21:413-418. [PMID: 30604694 PMCID: PMC6628746 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_107_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin therapy is commonly used to induce virilization and spermatogenesis in male isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) patients. In clinical practice, 5.6%–15.0% of male IHH patients show poor responses to gonadotropin treatment; therefore, testosterone (T) supplementation can serve as an alternative therapy to normalize serum T levels and promote virilization. However, treatment with exogenous T impairs spermatogenesis and suppresses intratesticular T levels. This retrospective study aimed to determine whether oral testosterone undecanoate (TU) supplementation together with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) would negatively affect spermatogenesis in IHH patients compared with hCG alone. One hundred and seven IHH patients were included in our study. Fifty-four patients received intramuscular hCG and oral TU, and 53 patients received intramuscular hCG alone. The median follow-up time was 29 (range: 12–72) months in both groups. Compared with the hCG group, the hCG/TU group required a shorter median time to normalize serum T levels (P < 0.001) and achieve Tanner stage (III and V) of pubic hair and genital development (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in the rate of seminal spermatozoa appearance, sperm concentration, or median time to achieve different sperm concentration thresholds between the groups. In addition, there were no significant differences in side effects, such as acne and gynecomastia, observed in both groups. This study indicates that oral TU supplementation together with hCG does not impair spermatogenesis in treated IHH patients compared with hCG alone, and it shortens the time to normalize serum T levels and promote virilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Wei Chen
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yong-Hua Niu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Dao-Qi Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Hong-Yang Jiang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Gaurab Pokhrel
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shao-Gang Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ji-Hong Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
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11
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Papadimitriou DT, Chrysis D, Nyktari G, Zoupanos G, Liakou E, Papadimitriou A, Mastorakos G. Replacement of Male Mini-Puberty. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1275-1282. [PMID: 31240270 PMCID: PMC6584110 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Clinical management of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) remains a challenge in pediatric endocrinology. Objective To investigate whether daily subcutaneous injections of the recombinant human LH/FSH preparation could mimic the physiological male mini-puberty. Design and Setting The REMAP (REplacement of MAle mini-Puberty) study with up to 10 years of follow-up. Patients and Intervention Ten neonates or infants, all with bilateral cryptorchidism in intra-abdominal/inguinal position and micropenis with the absence of neonatal male mini-puberty, received daily subcutaneous injections of Pergoveris® (LH/FSH 75/150 IU) for 3 months. Main Outcome Measures Restoration of bilateral cryptorchidism/micropenis and the Leydig/Sertoli cells function. Results At the end of treatment, median LH and FSH, both undetectable before treatment, reached high normal levels of 4.45 IU/L and supranormal levels 83 IU/L, respectively; median inhibin-b and anti-Mullerian hormone levels increased from subnormal (27.8 and 1.54 ng/mL, respectively) to normal levels (365 and 150 ng/mL, respectively); median testosterone increased from just detectable (0.02 ng/mL) to normal levels (3.3 ng/mL). Stretched penile length increased from a median of 2 to 3.8 cm. During therapy, all testes descended to the scrotal position (by the end of the first month in three patients, the second month in four patients, and the third month in three patients), measuring 1.5 mL and appearing normal in ultrasonography. Three infants received additional treatment with testosterone enanthate. In two infants, one of two testes regressed in the low inguinal area; both infants were successfully treated surgically. After 1 to 10 years of follow-up, all testes are still in scrotal position and have slightly regressed in size. Conclusions The proposed regimen mimics neonatal male mini-puberty and successfully treats infants with micropenis and cryptorchidism in CHH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dionysios Chrysis
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Medical School, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - Georgia Nyktari
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaia Maternity, Athens Medical Center, Athens, Greece
| | - George Zoupanos
- Pediatric Urology Clinic, Athens Medical Center, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anastasios Papadimitriou
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, 3rd Department of Pediatrics, Attikon University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - George Mastorakos
- Endocrine Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Young J, Xu C, Papadakis GE, Acierno JS, Maione L, Hietamäki J, Raivio T, Pitteloud N. Clinical Management of Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:669-710. [PMID: 30698671 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The initiation and maintenance of reproductive capacity in humans is dependent on pulsatile secretion of the hypothalamic hormone GnRH. Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a rare disorder that results from the failure of the normal episodic GnRH secretion, leading to delayed puberty and infertility. CHH can be associated with an absent sense of smell, also termed Kallmann syndrome, or with other anomalies. CHH is characterized by rich genetic heterogeneity, with mutations in >30 genes identified to date acting either alone or in combination. CHH can be challenging to diagnose, particularly in early adolescence where the clinical picture mirrors that of constitutional delay of growth and puberty. Timely diagnosis and treatment will induce puberty, leading to improved sexual, bone, metabolic, and psychological health. In most cases, patients require lifelong treatment, yet a notable portion of male patients (∼10% to 20%) exhibit a spontaneous recovery of their reproductive function. Finally, fertility can be induced with pulsatile GnRH treatment or gonadotropin regimens in most patients. In summary, this review is a comprehensive synthesis of the current literature available regarding the diagnosis, patient management, and genetic foundations of CHH relative to normal reproductive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Young
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hôpital, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,INSERM Unité 1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Cheng Xu
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Georgios E Papadakis
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - James S Acierno
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luigi Maione
- University of Paris-Sud, Paris-Sud Medical School, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hôpital, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,INSERM Unité 1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Johanna Hietamäki
- Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Translational Stem Cell Biology and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Taneli Raivio
- Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Translational Stem Cell Biology and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Dwyer AA, Smith N, Quinton R. Psychological Aspects of Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:353. [PMID: 31333578 PMCID: PMC6624645 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism/Kallmann syndrome (CHH/KS) is a rare, treatable form of infertility. Like other rare disease patients, individuals with CHH/KS frequently experience feelings of isolation, shame, and alienation. Unlike many rare diseases, CHH/KS is not life threatening and effective treatments are available. Nevertheless, it remains a profoundly life-altering condition with psychosocial distress on a par with untreatable or life-limiting disease. Patients with CHH/KS frequently express lasting adverse psychological, emotional, social, and psychosexual effects resulting from disrupted puberty. They also frequently experience a "diagnostic odyssey," characterized by distressing and convoluted medical referral pathways, lack-of-information, misinformation, and sometimes-incorrect diagnoses. Unnecessary delays in diagnosis and treatment-initiation can significantly contribute to poor body image and self-esteem. Such experiences can erode confidence and trust in medical professionals as well as undermine long-term adherence to treatment-with negative sequelae on health and wellbeing. This review provides a summary of the psychological aspects of CHH/KS and outlines an approach to comprehensive care that spans medical management as well as appropriate attention, care and referrals to peer-to-peer support and mental health services to ameliorate the psychological aspects of CHH/KS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A. Dwyer
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Boston, MA, United States
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Andrew A. Dwyer
| | - Neil Smith
- International Patient Support Group for Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism (HYPOHH), London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Quinton
- Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust (Royal Victoria Infirmary) and Institute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
- Richard Quinton
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Boehm U, Bouloux PM, Dattani MT, de Roux N, Dodé C, Dunkel L, Dwyer AA, Giacobini P, Hardelin JP, Juul A, Maghnie M, Pitteloud N, Prevot V, Raivio T, Tena-Sempere M, Quinton R, Young J. Expert consensus document: European Consensus Statement on congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism--pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2015; 11:547-64. [PMID: 26194704 DOI: 10.1038/nrendo.2015.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 498] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a rare disorder caused by the deficient production, secretion or action of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is the master hormone regulating the reproductive axis. CHH is clinically and genetically heterogeneous, with >25 different causal genes identified to date. Clinically, the disorder is characterized by an absence of puberty and infertility. The association of CHH with a defective sense of smell (anosmia or hyposmia), which is found in ∼50% of patients with CHH is termed Kallmann syndrome and results from incomplete embryonic migration of GnRH-synthesizing neurons. CHH can be challenging to diagnose, particularly when attempting to differentiate it from constitutional delay of puberty. A timely diagnosis and treatment to induce puberty can be beneficial for sexual, bone and metabolic health, and might help minimize some of the psychological effects of CHH. In most cases, fertility can be induced using specialized treatment regimens and several predictors of outcome have been identified. Patients typically require lifelong treatment, yet ∼10-20% of patients exhibit a spontaneous recovery of reproductive function. This Consensus Statement summarizes approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of CHH and discusses important unanswered questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Boehm
- University of Saarland School of Medicine, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Andrew A Dwyer
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Sevice of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), du Bugnon 46, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Sevice of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), du Bugnon 46, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
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Abstract
Puberty is the period during which we attain adult secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive capability. Its onset depends upon reactivation of pulsative GNRH, secretion from its relative quiescence during childhood, on the background of intact potential for pituitary-gonadal function. This review is intended: to highlight those current practices in diagnosis and management that are evidence based and those that are not; to help clinicians deal with areas of uncertainty with reference to physiologic first principles; by sign-posting relevant data arising from other patient groups with shared issues; to illustrate how recent scientific advances are (or should be) altering clinician perceptions of pubertal delay; and finally, to emphasise that the management of men and women presenting in advanced adult life with absent puberty cannot simply be extrapolated from paediatric practice. There is a broad spectrum of pubertal timing that varies among different populations, separated in time and space. Delayed puberty usually represents an extreme of the normal, a developmental pattern referred to as constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP), but organic defects of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis predisposing to hypogonadism may not always be initially distinguishable from it. CDGP and organic, or congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism are both significantly more common in boys than girls. Moreover, around 1/3 of adults with organic hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism had evidence of partial puberty at presentation and, confusingly, some 5-10% of these subsequently may exhibit recovery of endogenous gonadotrophin secretion, including men with Kallmann syndrome. However, the distinction is crucial as expectative ('watch-and-wait') management is inappropriate in the context of hypogonadism. The probability of pubertal delay being caused by organic hypogonadism rises exponentially both with increasing age at presentation and the presence of associated 'red flag' clinical features. These 'red flags' comprise findings indicating lack of prior 'mini-puberty' (such as cryptorchidism or micropenis), or the presence of non-reproductive congenital defects known to be associated with specific hypogonadal syndromes, e.g. anosmia, deafness, mirror movements, renal agenesis, dental/digital anomalies, clefting or coloboma would be compatible with Kallmann (or perhaps CHARGE) syndrome. In children, interventions (whether in the form or treatment or simple reassurance) have been historically directed at maximising height potential and minimising psychosocial morbidity, though issues of future fertility and bone density potential are now increasingly 'in the mix'. Apubertal adults almost invariably harbour organic hypogonadism, requiring sensitive acknowledgement of underlying personal issues and the timely introduction of sex hormone replacement therapy at more physiological doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Dunkel
- Barts and the LondonQueen Mary College, William Harvey Research Institute, Centre for Endocrinology, University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UKEndocrinology Research GroupInstitute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Times Square, Newcastle NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Richard Quinton
- Barts and the LondonQueen Mary College, William Harvey Research Institute, Centre for Endocrinology, University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UKEndocrinology Research GroupInstitute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Times Square, Newcastle NE1 3BZ, UK
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