Psychological Aspects of Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism

Health Disparities and Disrupted Puberty in Males

Disrupted puberty in males may result from self-limiting constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) or abiding hypogonadism (ie, congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, CHH). This article provides an overview of normal puberty, CDGP, and CHH and synthesizes current evidence on health and wellbeing outcomes. Particular attention is given to the drivers of disparities in outcomes and discussion of future directions to advance the care of males with disrupted puberty.

Nursing's Role in Advancing Care for Rare Genetic Diseases

Rare diseases (RDs) are predominantly genetic in etiology and characterized by low frequency and high medical complexity. Although individually infrequent, the cumulative public health impact of ∼7000 RDs is significant, and patients and families experience significant psychosocial burden. Health disparities stem from delays in diagnosis (diagnostic odyssey), difficulty accessing care, and lack of effective treatments. This article provides an overview of rare genetic diseases and highlights exemplar cases demonstrating nursing's role in advancing comprehensive, person-centered care for rare genetic diseases. Resources and recommendations are provided for nurses to enhance quality care for individuals and families living with RDs.

The aporetic dialogues of Modena on gender differences: Is it all about testosterone? Episode II: Empathy

The exploration of gender differences in non-andrological fields was the core focus of a series of discussions, which took place at the Endocrinology Unit in Modena, Italy in the form of the aporetic dialogue of ancient Greece. This second episode reports the transcript of the actual debate on testosterone's role in defining empathic behavior in males and females. The two groups of discussants sustained that empathic gender differences may rely either on testosterone exposure (group 1) or on other factors (group 2). The first group supported the hypothesis that females are more empathic than males due to reduced exposure to fetal testosterone, which correlates with higher empathic scores at all ages and lower sensitivity to testosterone in adulthood. This hypothesis is also supported by evolutionary mechanisms and evidence in animal ethology. Conversely, the second group affirmed that gender differences rely on structural diversities in brain organization, hormonal factors such as vasopressin, oxytocin, and cortisol, as well as sociological aspects. An expert in neurophysiology, acting as a referee, moderated the discussion and decided whether the two theories were equivalent or one was predominant.

Kallmann syndrome: Diagnostics and management

Kallmann syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by delayed or absence of puberty and a reduced or absent sense of smell (anosmia). Kallmann syndrome is a form of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism due to lack of the production of sex hormones which is associated with development of secondary sexual characteristics. Kallmann Syndrome is a genetically heterogeneous disorder, characterized by the combination of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (a deficiency in sex hormone production) and anosmia. Germline mutations in KAL1 gene causes deficiency in GnRH hormone followed by low level of circulating gonadotropin and testosterone which finally leads to the failure of puberty (development of secondary sexual characters). Kallmann Syndrome can be inherited in several manners including X-linked recessive (e.g., mutations within KAL1) and autosomal dominant and recessive forms. Germline mutation in KAL1 gene was identified among 8% of patients with Kallmann Syndrome. A review of the recent literature done reveals numerous clinical manifestations in Kallmann Syndrome patients with the KAL1 mutation, including microgenitalia, impotence, reduced libido, infertility, unilateral renal agenesis, and synkinesia. Genetic molecular diagnostics through prenatal diagnosis and preimplantation genetic testing are most significant way to reduce the risk of Kallmann syndrome in next generation. Complication associated with Kallmann syndrome can be prevented by early diagnosis, diet supplementation and medical therapy. Goal of therapeutic intervention is to the development of secondary sexual characteristics, build and sustain bone density as well as muscle mass and restore fertility. This review aims to explore the genetic diagnosis and management strategies for Kallmann Syndrome, particularly focusing on KAL1 gene mutations.

Current landscape of fertility induction in males with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a rare reproductive disorder caused by deficient secretion or action of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and is a hormonally treatable form of male infertility. Both pulsatile GnRH treatment and combined gonadotropin therapy effectively induce spermatogenesis in 75%-80% of males with CHH, albeit the ejaculate does not usually approach normal semen parameters by WHO criteria. This is in some contrast to the cumulative fertility outcomes in females with CHH on gonadotropin treatment that are indistinguishable from those of reproductively normal females. Emerging data provide insights into early life determinants of male fertility (i.e., minipuberty), and research has identified key predictors of outcomes for fertility-inducing treatment in men with CHH. Such developments provide mounting evidence for tailoring approaches to maximize fertility potential in CHH, although there is no clear consensus to date on the optimal approach to fertility-inducing treatment. This review provides an up-to-date review on the current evidence underpinning therapeutic approaches for inducing spermatogenesis in males with CHH. In the absence of evidence-based clinical guidelines, this synthesis of current evidence provides guidance for clinicians working with males with CHH seeking fertility.

Restoring function to inactivating G protein-coupled receptor variants in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis1

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are central to the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG axis) and include the rhodopsin-like GPCR family members, neurokinin 3 receptor, kappa-opioid receptor, kisspeptin 1 receptor, gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the gonadotropin receptors, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor. Unsurprisingly, inactivating variants of these receptors have been implicated in a spectrum of reproductive phenotypes, including failure to undergo puberty, and infertility. Clinical induction of puberty in patients harbouring such variants is possible, but restoration of fertility is not always a realisable outcome, particularly for those patients suffering from primary hypogonadism. Thus, novel pharmaceuticals and/or a fundamental change in approach to treating these patients are required. The increasing wealth of data describing the effects of coding-region genetic variants on GPCR function has highlighted that the majority appear to be dysfunctional as a result of misfolding of the encoded receptor protein, which, in turn, results in impaired receptor trafficking through the secretory pathway to the cell surface. As such, these intracellularly retained receptors may be amenable to 'rescue' using a pharmacological chaperone (PC)-based approach. PCs are small, cell permeant molecules hypothesised to interact with misfolded intracellularly retained proteins, stabilising their folding and promoting their trafficking through the secretory pathway. In support of the use of this approach as a viable therapeutic option, it has been observed that many rescued variant GPCRs retain at least a degree of functionality when 'rescued' to the cell surface. In this review, we examine the GPCR PC research landscape, focussing on the rescue of inactivating variant GPCRs with important roles in the HPG axis, and describe what is known regarding the mechanisms by which PCs restore trafficking and function. We also discuss some of the merits and obstacles associated with taking this approach forward into a clinical setting.

Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism

Delayed puberty is defined as absent testicular enlargement in boys or breast development in girls at an age that is 2 to 2.5 SDS later than the mean age at which these events occur in the population (traditionally, 14 years in boys and 13 years in girls). One cause of delayed/absent puberty is hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH), which refers to inadequate hypothalamic/pituitary function leading to deficient production of sex steroids in males and females. Individuals with HH typically have normal gonads, and thus HH differs from hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, which is associated with primary gonadal insufficiency.

S, Williams AM, Lubas M, Brinkman TM, Chemaitilly W, Robison LL, Hudson MM, Krull KR, Delaney A. Hypogonadism and neurocognitive outcomes among childhood cancer survivors

OBJECTIVE

Childhood cancer survivors are at risk for hypogonadism. The impact of hypogonadism on neurocognitive impairment and emotional distress in the non-cancer population has been shown; however, the relationship among the childhood cancer survivor population is unknown. We aimed to evaluate the contribution of hypogonadism to neurocognitive impairment and emotional distress among survivors.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study using retrospective cohort.

METHODS

In total, 3628 survivors who completed standard neurocognitive tests (six domains: processing speed, memory, executive function, attention, academics, and global cognition) and self-reported emotional distress were included in our study. Participants were stratified by sex and gonadal status. Outcomes were compared between hypogonadal and eugonadal groups by multivariable analysis, adjusting for established predictors, and mediation analyses to determine the direct/indirect effects of hypogonadism on outcomes.

RESULTS

The hypogonadal group exhibited a higher prevalence of neurocognitive impairment across domains, but no difference in emotional distress. Hypogonadal females exhibited higher relative risk (1.7, 95% CI, 1.2-2.5) for impaired visual processing speed, compared to eugonadal females after adjusting for cancer-related variables. In mediation models, hypogonadism had a significant direct (P < .01) and indirect (from P < .01) impact on impairment in visual processing speed among females. Males demonstrated direct (P = .03) and indirect (P = .04) impact of hypogonadism on motor processing speed.

CONCLUSION

Processing speed may be the most vulnerable neurocognitive domain associated with hypogonadism in survivors, while other domains were mainly impacted by cancer-related variables. Our findings support the need for further evaluation of the impact of sex hormone replacement therapy on neurocognitive function.

Outcomes and experiences of adults with congenital hypogonadism can inform improvements in the management of delayed puberty

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.

Digenic CHD7 and SMCHD1 inheritance Unveils phenotypic variability in a family mainly presenting with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

Objectives

CHARGE syndrome is a congenital hereditary condition involving multiple systems. Patients are easily misdiagnosed with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) due to the overlap of clinical manifestations. An accurate clinical diagnosis remains challenging when the predominant clinical manifestation resembles hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.

Methods

This original research is conducted based on the genetic finding and analysis of clinical cases. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and in-silico analyse were performed on two sisters to investigate the pathogenesis in this family. Homology modelling was conducted to evaluate structural changes in the variants.

Results

WES and Sanger sequencing revealed two siblings carrying a nonsense mutation (NM_017780.4: c.115C > T) in exon 2 of CHD7 inherited from a mildly affected mother and a missense mutation (NM_015295.3: c.2582T > C) in exon 20 of SMCHD1 inherited from an asymptomatic father. The nonsense mutation in CHD7 was predicted to generate nonsense-mediated decay, whereas the missense mutation in SMCHD1 decreased protein stability.

Conclusions

We identified digenic CHD7 and SMCHD1 mutations in IHH-associated diseases for the first time and verified the synergistic role of oligogenic inheritance. It was also determined that WES is an effective tool for distinguishing diseases with overlapping features and establishing a molecular diagnosis for cases with digenic or oligogenic hereditary disorders, which is beneficial for timely treatment, and family genetic counseling.

Gonadotropins for pubertal induction in males with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is characterized by inadequate secretion of pituitary gonadotropins, leading to absent, partial, or arrested puberty. In males, classical treatment with testosterone promotes virilization but not testicular growth or spermatogenesis. To quantify treatment practices and efficacy, we systematically reviewed all studies investigating gonadotropins for the achievement of pubertal outcomes in males with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic review of Medline, Embase, Global Health, and PsycINFO databases in December 2022. Risk of Bias 2.0/Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies of Interventions/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute tools for quality appraisal. Protocol registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022381713).

RESULTS

After screening 3925 abstracts, 103 studies were identified including 5328 patients from 21 countries. The average age of participants was <25 years in 45.6% (n = 47) of studies. Studies utilized human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) (n = 93, 90.3% of studies), human menopausal gonadotropin (n = 42, 40.8%), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (n = 37, 35.9%), and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (28.2% n = 29). The median reported duration of treatment/follow-up was 18 months (interquartile range 10.5-24 months). Gonadotropins induced significant increases in testicular volume, penile size, and testosterone in over 98% of analyses. Spermatogenesis rates were higher with hCG + FSH (86%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 82%-91%) as compared with hCG alone (40%, 95% CI 25%-56%). However, study heterogeneity and treatment variability were high.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review provides convincing evidence of the efficacy of gonadotropins for pubertal induction. However, there remains substantial heterogeneity in treatment choice, dose, duration, and outcomes assessed. Formal guidelines and randomized studies are needed.

Clinical challenge: When is delayed puberty more than a "late bloomer"?

Delayed puberty is a common reason for adolescents seeking consultation; most have constitutional delay of puberty (CDP) and will initiate puberty spontaneously although later than their peers. However, some individuals will not initiate or progress through puberty (i.e., congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism [CHH]). Differentiating CDP from CHH is diagnostically challenging. This article provides a high-level overview of this clinical challenge, underscores the importance of clinical ‘red flags’ facilitating diagnosis, and highlights a holistic, comprehensive approach to care.

Successful pregnancy and delivery after ovulation induction therapy in a woman with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: a case report

BACKGROUND

Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a rare disorder resulting from a deficient secretion of the episodic gonadotropin-releasing hormone, leading to delayed or absent puberty and infertility. In female patients with CHH, the most commonly used treatment is gonadotropin (Gn) therapy. Due to the rarity of the disease in females, there are limited case reports available. This article offers a management approach for this unusual disease that can be helpful for clinicians.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of a 29-year-old woman who successfully achieved pregnancy and delivered healthy twin girls after ovulation induction therapy. The patient was diagnosed with CHH at 18 years of age due to primary amenorrhea and the absence of secondary sexual characteristics. After experiencing infertility for three years, the patient sought medical assistance for conceiving. The patient was treated with gonadotropin therapy due to anovulation. In her first treatment cycle, the initial dose of HMG used for treatment was 75IU, which was increased to 150IU after six days. However, the cycle was canceled due to follicular dysplasia. In the second cycle, the treatment began with an initial dose of 150IU, and the follicles grew normally, but the estrogen level was low. Consequently, the treatment was interrupted. In a third ovulation stimulation cycle, HMG was adjusted to 150IU, and recombinant LH was added. After 12 days of ovulation, three mature follicles grew, the estrogen level was normal,and the treatment resulted in successful ovulation and subsequent pregnancy. At 35 weeks of gestation, the patient underwent a cesarean section and delivered two healthy female infants weighing 2,405 g and 2,755 g with an Apgar score of 10/10.

CONCLUSIONS

Early diagnosis and timely and appropriate hormone replacement therapy are important for future pregnancy. Ovulation induction therapy is necessary to stimulate fertility. Gn therapy is a feasible and effective treatment for reproduction in CHH females, but the selection of Gn type and dosage must be personalized to maximize fertility outcomes. Effective treatment is available not only for inducing estrogenization and promoting fertility, but also for addressing concerns about psychological and emotional well-being.

The initiation and maintenance of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuron identity in congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

Neurons that secrete gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) drive vertebrate reproduction. Genetic lesions that disrupt these neurons in humans lead to congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) and reproductive failure. Studies on CHH have largely focused on the disruption of prenatal GnRH neuronal migration and postnatal GnRH secretory activity. However, recent evidence suggests a need to also focus on how GnRH neurons initiate and maintain their identity during prenatal and postnatal periods. This review will provide a brief overview of what is known about these processes and several gaps in our knowledge, with an emphasis on how disruption of GnRH neuronal identity can lead to CHH phenotypes.

Clinical and Biochemical Characteristics of Male Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism Patients: A Retrospective Cross Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is a medical condition where there is a deficiency or insensitivity of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) without a known cause. Not only are the sexual characteristics of a person affected by this condition but also are the psychological and physical development, thus necessitating its early recognition and treatment. This research was carried out to identify the laboratory parameters and to present symptoms of the patients with complaints of IHH.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective, center, single-center, cross-sectional study was carried out in Aga Khan University from December 2000 until December 2020 on the patients that presented to the clinic with IHH. The patients included in the study were those that presented with hypogonadism, a low concentration of sex steroid hormone, and an abnormal gonadotropin level without any expansive pituitary or hypothalamic lesion.

RESULTS

Seventy nine patients presenting with IHH were included with their mean age of 24.2 ± 7.5 years. Of these, 64 (81.0%) had genital atrophy, 50 (63.6%) showed an absence of secondary sexual characteristics, 53 (67.1%) complained of infertility, 44 (55.7%) had not shown signs of puberty, 52 (65.8%) had erectile dysfunction, 46 (58.2%) had a decrease in libido, 11(13.9%) had a previous familial history, 24 (30.3%) had gynecomastia, 9 (11.4%) had non-descended testes, and 6 (7.6%) had anosmia. These patients had serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels of 26.3 ± 60, 1.3 ± 2.4, and 2.7 ± 5.0 (IU/L), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Thus, it can be stated that small genitalia is the most common complaint among patients with IHH, followed by infertility and lack of secondary sexual characteristics. The testosterone level in serum is also found to be low among these patients.

Panel testing for the molecular genetic diagnosis of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism – a clinical perspective

Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a rare endocrine disorder that results in reproductive hormone deficiency and reduced potential for fertility in adult life. Discoveries of the genetic aetiology of CHH have advanced dramatically in the past 30 years, with currently over 40 genes recognised to cause or contribute to the development of this condition. The genetic complexity of CHH is further increased by the observation of di- and oligogenic, as well as classic monogenic, inheritance and incomplete penetrance. Very recently in the UK, a panel of 14 genes has been curated for the genetic diagnosis of CHH within the NHS Genomic Medicine Service programme. The aim of this review is to appraise the advantages and potential pitfalls of the use of a CHH panel in clinical endocrine diagnostics, and to consider the future avenues for developing this panel including the potential of whole exome or whole genome sequencing data analysis in this condition.

Advancing qualitative rare disease research methodology: a comparison of virtual and in-person focus group formats

Background

Rare disease research is hampered in part by the fact that patients are geographically dispersed. Rare disease patient communities are recognized for their use of the internet to learn about their condition and find peer-to-peer support. As such, web-based technologies offer promise for overcoming geographic barriers in rare disease research for many. Qualitative focus groups (FGs) are a widely used methodology used to understand patients and parents/families ‘lived experience’ and unmet needs is important to improve care for rare diseases. It is unclear if web-enabled (virtual) FGs are comparable to traditional in-person approaches. We conducted in-person (n = 3) and virtual (n = 3) FGs with rare disease patients to determine if virtual FGs produce similar results in-person FGs.

Results

Three in-person (n = 33 participants) and three virtual (n = 25 participants) FGs were conducted examining attitudes and beliefs regarding genetic testing and family communication of risk. Participants included 30 males, 18 females, and 10 parents/guardians. Two independent investigators identified excerpts (meaningful sections of text) and coded themes/sub-themes using a codebook. Inter-coder agreement across identified excerpts (n = 530) in both FG formats was 844/875 (96.5%). Two additional investigators reviewed coded excerpts and did not identify additional themes/sub-themes—supporting data saturation across FG formats. Virtual FGs accounted for 303/530 (57.2%) of total excerpts and 957/1721 (55.7%) of all identified themes/sub-themes. Formats were similar in terms of overall number of excerpts (101 ± 7.8 vs. 75.7 ± 18.8, p = 0.26) and themes/sub-themes (319 ± 6.1 vs. 254.7 ± 103.6, p = 0.34) between virtual and in-person FGs. However, virtual FGs had significantly more coded excerpts specifically relating to sensitive/intimate topics including ‘attitudes and beliefs’ (n = 320 vs. n = 235, p < 0.001), ‘information and support’ (n = 184 vs. n = 99, p < 0.001), and ‘family communication’ (n = 208 vs. n = 114, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Virtual FGs yielded similar numbers of coded excerpts compared to traditional in-person FGs. Virtual FGs appear to support the relative anonymity of participants, resulting in richer discussion of highly sensitive, intimate topics. Findings support the validity and methodologic rigor of using web-enabled technologies for conducting FGs in rare diseases.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy in the Aged Male: Monitoring Patients’ Quality of Life Utilizing Scoring Systems

Hypogonadism has been associated with significant deterioration of well-being. In the aging male, late-onset hypogonadism affects sexual life, mental health, levels of energy, lower urinary tract symptoms and, therefore, quality of life may be found significantly deteriorated. Testosterone replacement or supplementation therapy has been found efficient to reverse the adverse effects of hypogonadism and improve quality of life. Scales and questionnaires assessing the general health, urinary symptoms, sexual health, and cognition can provide a thorough assessment of the clinical syndrome, optimize treatment, assist the follow-up, and facilitate referrals to other specialties depending on the chief complaint. A systematic assessment might combine several tools, but the optimal ones and the exact usage is unknown. In this narrative review, we are flipping through the literature presenting the available tools per domain for the assessment of quality of life in men on testosterone replacement therapy and we discuss the optimal usage.

Exploring Rare Disease Patient Attitudes and Beliefs regarding Genetic Testing: Implications for Person-Centered Care

Most rare diseases are genetic in etiology and characterized by a ‘diagnostic odyssey’. Genomic advances have helped speed up the diagnosis for many rare disorders, opening new avenues for precision therapies. Little is known about patient attitudes, experiences, and beliefs about genetic testing for the rare disease congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH). Methods: We conducted six focus groups with patients with CHH (n = 58). Transcripts were coded by independent investigators and validated by external reviewers. Results: Major themes relating to pre-test experiences were ‘attitudes & beliefs’ (most frequently cited theme), which revealed altruism as a strong motivator for pursuing research testing and ‘information and support,’ which revealed a striking lack of pre-testing decisional support/genetic counseling. Major post-test themes included ‘return of results,’ revealing frustration with the lack of return of results and limited emotional support, and ‘family communication,’ describing challenging intrafamilial communication. Themes describing ethical concerns (i.e., privacy, use of samples) were least frequently noted and related to pre- and post-test experiences. Conclusions: Patients with CHH are highly motivated by altruism when pursuing testing but have significant unmet needs for pre-test decisional support and post-test counseling. It is regarded that patient values, beliefs and experiences can inform more person-centered approaches to genetic testing for rare diseases.

Identification of Novel Compound Heterozygous Variants of the PNPLA6 Gene in Boucher-Neuhäuser Syndrome

Background: Boucher–Neuhäuser syndrome (BNS, MIM 215470) is a rare autosomal recessive syndrome caused by mutations in the PNPLA6 gene. Few BNS cases have been reported for functional validation at the RNA level. Herein, we report on the family of a 17-year-old girl with clinical characteristics of BNS, genetic validation, and a systematic review of PNPLA6 variants related to BNS.

Methods: Clinical data and blood samples were collected from the patient and their parents, and whole-exome sequencing was performed and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) and quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) were performed, and the three-dimensional protein structures of the variants were predicted.

Results: We report a 17-year-old female with progressive night blindness since the age of four, primary amenorrhea, and non-development of secondary sexual characteristics. Her impaired vision was diagnosed as retinal pigmentary degeneration of the retina. She had congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) but no cerebellar ataxia at present. Two novel compound heterozygous variants (c.2241del/p.Met748TrpfsTer65 and c.2986A>G/p.Thr996Ala) of the PNPLA6 gene (NM_006702.4) were identified by whole-exome sequencing. The former variant was carried from her healthy father and has not been reported previously. The latter was inherited from her healthy mother and was noted in a report without functional studies. The RT-PCR results showed that the mRNA expression of PNPLA6 was lower in this patient and her father than in the control group. She was diagnosed with BNS. Both variants (c.2241del and c.2986A>G) were likely pathogenic according to the ACMG criteria. The novel variants in the PNPLA6 gene related to Boucher–Neuhäuser syndrome were summarized in this article.

Conclusion: The possibility of Boucher–Neuhäuser syndrome should be considered when patients present with night blindness, impaired vision, and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Gene sequencing is currently the primary diagnostic method. Herein, novel compound heterozygous variants of PNPLA6 were identified in a BNS patient, and its function was verified at the RNA level. The PNPLA6 c.2241del variant is novel and potentially pathogenic, expanding the mutation spectrum in PNPLA6.

Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) in congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (CHH) in boys with delayed puberty and adult men

BACKGROUND

Delayed puberty in males is almost invariably associated with constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) or congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (CHH). Establishing the cause at presentation is challenging, with "red flag" features of CHH commonly overlooked. Thus, several markers have been evaluated in both the basal state or after stimulation e.g. with gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa).Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) is a constitutive secretory product of Leydig cells and thus a possible candidate marker, but there have been limited data examining its role in distinguishing CDGP from CHH. In this manuscript, we assess INSL3 and inhibin B (INB) in two cohorts: 1. Adolescent boys with delayed puberty due to CDGP or CHH and 2. Adult men, both eugonadal and having CHH.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort studies of 60 boys with CDGP or CHH, as well as 44 adult men who were either eugonadal or had CHH, in whom INSL3, INB, testosterone and gonadotrophins were measured. Cohort 1: Boys with delayed puberty aged 13-17 years (51 with CDGP and 9 with CHH) who had GnRHa stimulation (subcutaneous triptorelin 100mcg), previously reported with respect to INB. Cohort 2: Adult cohort of 44 men (22 eugonadal men and 22 men with CHH), previously reported with respect to gonadotrophin responses to kisspeptin-54.

RESULTS

Median INSL3 was higher in boys with CDGP than CHH (0.35 vs 0.15 ng/ml; p=0.0002). Similarly, in adult men, median INSL3 was higher in eugonadal men than CHH (1.08 vs 0.05 ng/ml; p<0.0001). However, INSL3 more accurately differentiated CHH in adult men than in boys with delayed puberty (auROC with 95% CI in adult men: 100%, 100-100%; boys with delayed puberty: 86.7%, 77.7-95.7%).Median INB was higher in boys with CDGP than CHH (182 vs 59 pg/ml; p<0.0001). Likewise, in adult men, median INB was higher in eugonadal men than CHH (170 vs 36.5 pg/ml; p<0.0001). INB performed better than INSL3 in differentiating CHH in boys with delayed puberty (auROC 98.5%, 95.9-100%), than in adult men (auROC 93.9%, 87.2-100%).

CONCLUSION

INSL3 better identifies CHH in adult men, whereas INB better identifies CHH in boys with delayed puberty.

Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients With Early-Detected Central Congenital Hypothyroidism

CONTEXT

Central congenital hypothyroidism (CH) requires lifelong medical treatment. The majority of children with central CH have multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies (MPHD), but in some cases central CH is isolated. Most pituitary hormone deficiencies are associated with impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, studies on HRQoL in central CH are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate HRQoL and fatigue in children and young adults with central CH, as well as parent perspectives.

DESIGN

Nationwide cross-sectional study comparing HRQoL between early-detected central CH patients and unaffected siblings with the Pediatric Quality of Life inventory (PedsQL™) and PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale. Participants ≥ 8 years old filled in self-reports; parents of participants aged 3 to 18 years filled in parent reports. Isolated central CH patients, MPHD patients, and siblings were compared using a linear mixed model and Tukey's post hoc test.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight patients and 52 siblings participated, yielding 98 self-reports and 115 parent reports. Isolated central CH patients (n = 35) and siblings showed similar scores on all subscales, both in the self-reports and parent reports. For MPHD patients (n = 53), self-reported scores were similar to those of siblings. Parent reported total HRQoL and fatigue scores were significantly poorer in MPHD patients compared with siblings (mean differences -10.2 and -9.4 points; P < 0.01), as were scores for physical functioning, social functioning and general fatigue.

CONCLUSION

Self-reported HRQoL scores in isolated central CH and MPHD patients were similar to siblings. However, parents reported significantly lower HRQoL and fatigue scores for MPHD patients, suggesting a difference in perceived limitations between MPHD patients and their parents.

Reduced Quality of Life and Sexual Satisfaction in Isolated Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism

(1) Background: Isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is a genetic condition characterized by impaired puberty and fertility. IHH can significantly impact patient health-related quality of life (HRQoL), sexual satisfaction (SS) and mood. (2) Methods: Participants included 132 IHH subjects (89 men and 43 women) and 132 sex- and age-matched controls. HRQoL, depressive symptoms, erectile dysfunction (ED), and SS were assessed in an online survey using the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), 15D instrument of HRQoL (15D), Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (SSQ), and 5-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). (3) Results: QoL and SS were significantly lower in the IHH group vs. controls. There was a high rate of ED (53.2% vs. 33%, p = 0.008) and depressive symptoms (45.00 ± 17.00 vs. 32.00 ± 12.00, p < 0.001) in patients vs. controls. The age of patients at IHH diagnosis inversely correlated with their overall 15D scores. An alarming non-compliance rate was seen (51.6%). No differences were found between scores of patients receiving hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and untreated subjects in any of the scales. (4) Conclusions: The HRQoL, SS, ED, and depression levels observed in IHH patients, despite HRT, are alarming. Late IHH diagnosis may have a particularly negative impact on HRQoL. More attention should be devoted to HRT adherence and various HRQoL aspects of IHH patients.

Validating online approaches for rare disease research using latent class mixture modeling

Background

Rare disease patients are geographically dispersed, posing challenges to research. Some researchers have partnered with patient organizations and used web-based approaches to overcome geographic recruitment barriers. Critics of such methods claim that samples are homogenous and do not represent the broader patient population—as patients recruited from patient organizations are thought to have high levels of needs. We applied latent class mixture modeling (LCMM) to define patient clusters based on underlying characteristics. We used previously collected data from a cohort of patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism who were recruited online in collaboration with a patient organization. Patient demographics, clinical information, Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R) scores and Zung self-rating depression Scale (SDS) were used as variables for LCMM analysis. Specifically, we aimed to test the classic critique that patients recruited online in collaboration with a patient organization are a homogenous group with high needs. We hypothesized that distinct classes (clinical profiles) of patients could be identified—thereby demonstrating the validity of online recruitment and supporting transferability of findings.

Results

In total, 154 patients with CHH were included. The LCMM analysis identified three distinct subgroups (Class I: n = 84 [54.5%], Class II: n = 41 [26.6%], Class III: n = 29 [18.8%]) that differed significantly in terms of age, education, disease consequences, emotional consequences, illness coherence and depression symptoms (all p < 0.001) as well as age at diagnosis (p = 0.045). Classes depict a continuum of psychosocial impact ranging from severe to relatively modest. Additional analyses revealed later diagnosis (Class I: 19.2 ± 6.7 years [95% CI 17.8–20.7]) is significantly associated with worse psychological adaptation and coping as assessed by disease consequences, emotional responses, making sense of one’s illness and SDS depressive symptoms (all p < 0.001).

Conclusions

We identify three distinct classes of patients who were recruited online in collaboration with a patient organization. Findings refute prior critiques of patient partnership and web-based recruitment for rare disease research. This is the first empirical data suggesting negative psychosocial sequelae of later diagnosis (“diagnostic odyssey”) often observed in CHH.

Recent advances in understanding and managing Kallmann syndrome

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.

Minipuberty: Looking Back to Understand Moving Forward

Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis activation occurs three times in life: the first is during fetal life, and has a crucial role in sex determination, the second time is during the first postnatal months of life, and the third is with the onset of puberty. These windows of activation recall the three windows of the "Developmental Origin of Health and Disease" (DOHaD) paradigm and may play a substantial role in several aspects of human development, such as growth, behavior, and neurodevelopment. From the second trimester of pregnancy there is a peak in gonadotropin levels, followed by a decrease toward term and complete suppression at birth. This is due to the negative feedback of placental estrogens. Studies have shown that in this prenatal HPG axis activation, gonadotropin levels display a sex-related pattern which plays a crucial role in sex differentiation of internal and external genitalia. Soon after birth, there is a new increase in LH, FSH, and sex hormone concentrations, both in males and females, due to HPG re-activation. This postnatal activation is known as "minipuberty." The HPG axis activity in infancy demonstrates a pulsatile pattern with hormone levels similar to those of true puberty. We review the studies on the changes of these hormones in infancy and their influence on several aspects of future development, from linear growth to fertility and neurobehavior.

Breast Cancer and Major Deviations of Genetic and Gender-related Structures and Function

We have searched the literature for information on the risk of breast cancer (BC) in relation to gender, breast development, and gonadal function in the following 8 populations: 1) females with the Turner syndrome (45, XO); 2) females and males with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and the Kallmann syndrome; 3) pure gonadal dysgenesis (PGD) in genotypic and phenotypic females and genotypic males (Swyer syndrome); 4) males with the Klinefelter syndrome (47, XXY); 5) male-to-female transgender individuals; 6) female-to-male transgender individuals; 7) genotypic males, but phenotypic females with the complete androgen insensitivity syndrome, and 8) females with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome (müllerian agenesis). Based on this search, we have drawn 3 major conclusions. First, the presence of a Y chromosome protects against the development of BC, even when female-size breasts and female-level estrogens are present. Second, without menstrual cycles, BC hardly occurs with an incidence comparable to males. There is a strong correlation between the lifetime number of menstrual cycles and the risk of BC. In our populations the BC risk in genetic females not exposed to progesterone (P4) is very low and comparable to males. Third, BC has been reported only once in genetic females with MRKH syndrome who have normal breasts and ovulating ovaries with normal levels of estrogens and P4. We hypothesize that the oncogenic glycoprotein WNT family member 4 is the link between the genetic cause of MRKH and the absence of BC women with MRKH syndrome.

Psychosexual effects resulting from delayed, incomplete, or absent puberty

Puberty is a remarkable period of postnatal development culminating in reproductive capacity. Biological changes of puberty are accompanied by social and emotional changes including psychosexual development. Developmental changes of adolescence are influenced by numerous biological, psychological and social influences. Work to date has identified associations between disrupted puberty (i.e. delayed, incomplete or absent) and psychosexual development. This brief review summarizes our current understanding of the psychosexual effects of delayed puberty and congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (Kallmann syndrome). The importance of psychosocial support and transitional care is highlighted and future directions are discussed.

Genetics of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: peculiarities and phenotype of an oligogenic disease

A genetic basis of congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) can be defined in almost 50% of cases, albeit not necessarily the complete genetic basis. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques have led to the discovery of a great number of loci, each of which has illuminated our understanding of human gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, either in respect of their embryonic development or their neuroendocrine regulation as the "pilot light" of human reproduction. However, because each new gene linked to CHH only seems to underpin another small percentage of total patient cases, we are still far from achieving a comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis of CHH. Patients have generally not benefited from advances in genetics in respect of novel therapies. In most cases, even genetic counselling is limited by issues of apparent variability in expressivity and penetrance that are likely underpinned by oligogenicity in respect of known and unknown genes. Robust genotype-phenotype relationships can generally only be established for individuals who are homozygous, hemizygous or compound heterozygotes for the same gene of variant alleles that are predicted to be deleterious. While certain genes are purely associated with normosmic CHH (nCHH) some purely with the anosmic form (Kallmann syndrome-KS), other genes can be associated with both nCHH and KS-sometimes even within the same kindred. Even though the anticipated genetic overlap between CHH and constitutional delay in growth and puberty (CDGP) has not materialised, previously unanticipated genetic relationships have emerged, comprising conditions of combined (or multiple) pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD), hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) and CHARGE syndrome. In this review, we report the current evidence in relation to phenotype and genetic peculiarities regarding 60 genes whose loss-of-function variants can disrupt the central regulation of reproduction at many levels: impairing GnRH neurons migration, differentiation or activation; disrupting neuroendocrine control of GnRH secretion; preventing GnRH neuron migration or function and/or gonadotropin secretion and action.