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Fiot E, Léger J, Martinerie L. Hormone Therapy During Infancy or Early Childhood for Patients with Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism, Klinefelter or Turner Syndrome: Has the Time Come? Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2024; 53:307-320. [PMID: 38677872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Managing patients unable to produce sex steroids using gonadotropins to mimic minipuberty in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, or sex steroids in patients with Klinefelter or Turner syndrome, is promising. There is a need to pursue research in this area, with large prospective cohorts and long-term data before these treatments can be routinely considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Fiot
- Endocrinologie Pédiatrique, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et du Développement, Hôpital Universitaire Robert-Debré, Paris 75019, France
| | - Juliane Léger
- Endocrinologie Pédiatrique, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et du Développement, Hôpital Universitaire Robert-Debré, Paris 75019, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, UFR de Médecine, Paris, France
| | - Laetitia Martinerie
- Endocrinologie Pédiatrique, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et du Développement, Hôpital Universitaire Robert-Debré, Paris 75019, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, UFR de Médecine, Paris, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre 94276, France.
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Lockie AWC, Grice P, Mathur R, Pearce I, Modgil V. Diagnosis and treatment of hypogonadism in men seeking to preserve fertility - what are the options? Int J Impot Res 2024:10.1038/s41443-024-00897-4. [PMID: 38693209 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-024-00897-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Male hypogonadism is a clinical syndrome that results in low testosterone levels and frequently leads to infertility. The syndrome occurs due to disruption at one or more levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the most common treatment utilised for male hypogonadism. However, long-acting forms of TRT leads to infertility and so is inappropriate for patients wishing to conceive. For patients who wish to remain fertile, nasal TRT, clomiphene citrate, exogenous gonadotropins, gonadotropin releasing hormone and aromatase inhibitors have been used as alternative treatment options with different degrees of success. A review of the literature was performed to identify the safety and efficacy of alternative treatment options. Gonadotropin releasing hormone can successfully induce spermatogenesis but is impractical to administer. Likewise, aromatase inhibitors have limited use due to inducing osteopenia. Nasal TRT may be a good treatment option for these patients, but its efficacy has so far only been demonstrated in small sample sizes. However, clomiphene citrate and exogenous gonadotropins are safe, offer good symptom control and can successfully induce fertility in hypogonadism patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Grice
- Northampton General Hospital, Northampton, UK
| | - Raj Mathur
- Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
| | - Ian Pearce
- Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
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Zhang J, Zhu Y, Zhang R, Liu H, Sun B, Zhang W, Wang X, Nie M, Mao J, Wu X. Pulsatile Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Therapy Is Associated With Better Spermatogenic Outcomes than Gonadotropin Therapy in Patients With Pituitary Stalk Interruption Syndrome. Endocr Pract 2024; 30:146-154. [PMID: 38029930 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of combined gonadotropin and pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) therapy on spermatogenesis in patients with pituitary stalk interruption syndrome (PSIS). METHODS Male patients with PSIS (N = 119) were retrospectively studied. Patients received pulsatile GnRH therapy (N = 59) were divided into response and poor-response groups based on luteinizing hormone (LH) levels after 1-month treatment with a cutoff value of 1 or 2 IU/L. Participants with gonadotropin therapy were divided into human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG)/human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) group (N = 60), and patients with pulsatile GnRH therapy were classified into GnRH group (N = 28) with treatment duration ≥6 months. RESULTS The overall success rates of spermatogenesis for hMG/hCG and GnRH therapy were 51.67% (31/60) vs 33.90% (20/59), respectively. GnRH group required a shorter period to induce spermatogenesis (8 vs 15 months, P = .019). hMG/hCG group had higher median total testosterone than GnRH group [2.16, interquartile range(IQR) 1.06-4.89 vs 1.31, IQR 0.21-2.26 ng/mL, P = .004]. GnRH therapy had a beneficial effect on spermatogenesis compared to hMG/hCG therapy (hazard ratio 1.97, 95% confidence interval 1.08-3.57, P = .026). In patients with pulsatile GnRH therapy, compared with the poor-response group, the response group had a higher successful spermatogenesis rate (5.00% vs 48.72%, P = .002) and higher median basal total testosterone (0.00, IQR 0.00-0.03 vs 0.04, IQR 0.00-0.16 ng/mL, P = .026) with LH = 1 IU/L as the cutoff value after 1-month pulsatile GnRH therapy. CONCLUSIONS Pulsatile GnRH therapy was superior to hMG/hCG therapy for spermatogenesis in patients with PSIS. Earlier spermatogenesis and higher concentrations of sperm could be obtained in the GnRH group if patients received therapy over 6 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi Zhang
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yiyi Zhu
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongying Liu
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bang Sun
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Wang
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Min Nie
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangfeng Mao
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xueyan Wu
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Grob F, Keshwani R, Angley E, Zacharin M. Fertility outcomes in male adults with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism treated during puberty with human chorionic gonadotropin and recombinant follicle stimulating hormone. J Paediatr Child Health 2024; 60:53-57. [PMID: 38572627 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.16540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
AIM Hormone replacement therapy with testosterone for pubertal induction in boys with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) achieves virilization but not spermatogenesis. By contrast, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH) provides both virilization and spermatogenesis. Fertility outcomes of boys treated with recombinant therapy during adolescence have been infrequently described. We report fertility induction and pregnancy outcomes in CHH patients treated with recombinant gonadotropins during puberty. METHODS Data of six subjects with CHH (n = 3 Kallmann syndrome & n = 3 Isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism) treated with hCG and FSH for pubertal induction were reviewed. Of these, five underwent subsequent fertility induction while one desired fertility at the end of pubertal induction. RESULTS Partners of all subjects achieved pregnancies using hCG and rFSH, all with full term live births. All infants were clinically normal. CONCLUSION This study provides early evidence of proof of concept of use of gonadotropin induction of puberty being beneficial in subsequent fertility outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Grob
- Department of Endocrinology, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Division of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rachna Keshwani
- Department of Endocrinology, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Pediatrics, Surya Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Eleanor Angley
- Department of Endocrinology, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret Zacharin
- Department of Endocrinology, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Alexander EC, Faruqi D, Farquhar R, Unadkat A, Ng Yin K, Hoskyns R, Varughese R, Howard SR. Gonadotropins for pubertal induction in males with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Endocrinol 2024; 190:S1-S11. [PMID: 38128110 PMCID: PMC10773669 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma C Alexander
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Duaa Faruqi
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, Guy’s Campus, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Farquhar
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, Guy’s Campus, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - Ayesha Unadkat
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, Guy’s Campus, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - Kyla Ng Yin
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Hoskyns
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Varughese
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Trust, London WC1N 3JH, United Kingdom
| | - Sasha R Howard
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London E1 1BB, United Kingdom
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Aung Y, Kokotsis V, Yin KN, Banerjee K, Butler G, Dattani MT, Dimitri P, Dunkel L, Hughes C, McGuigan M, Korbonits M, Paltoglou G, Sakka S, Shah P, Storr HL, Willemsen RH, Howard SR. Key features of puberty onset and progression can help distinguish self-limited delayed puberty from congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1226839. [PMID: 37701896 PMCID: PMC10493306 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1226839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Delayed puberty (DP) is a frequent concern for adolescents. The most common underlying aetiology is self-limited DP (SLDP). However, this can be difficult to differentiate from the more severe condition congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (HH), especially on first presentation of an adolescent patient with DP. This study sought to elucidate phenotypic differences between the two diagnoses, in order to optimise patient management and pubertal development. Methods This was a study of a UK DP cohort managed 2015-2023, identified through the NIHR clinical research network. Patients were followed longitudinally until adulthood, with a definite diagnosis made: SLDP if they had spontaneously completed puberty by age 18 years; HH if they had not commenced (complete, cHH), or had commenced but not completed puberty (partial, pHH), by this stage. Phenotypic data pertaining to auxology, Tanner staging, biochemistry, bone age and hormonal treatment at presentation and during puberty were retrospectively analysed. Results 78 patients were included. 52 (66.7%) patients had SLDP and 26 (33.3%) patients had HH, comprising 17 (65.4%) pHH and 9 (34.6%) cHH patients. Probands were predominantly male (90.4%). Male SLDP patients presented with significantly lower height and weight standard deviation scores than HH patients (height p=0.004, weight p=0.021). 15.4% of SLDP compared to 38.5% of HH patients had classical associated features of HH (micropenis, cryptorchidism, anosmia, etc. p=0.023). 73.1% of patients with SLDP and 43.3% with HH had a family history of DP (p=0.007). Mean first recorded luteinizing hormone (LH) and inhibin B were lower in male patients with HH, particularly in cHH patients, but not discriminatory. There were no significant differences identified in blood concentrations of FSH, testosterone or AMH at presentation, or in bone age delay. Discussion Key clinical markers of auxology, associated signs including micropenis, and serum inhibin B may help distinguish between SLDP and HH in patients presenting with pubertal delay, and can be incorporated into clinical assessment to improve diagnostic accuracy for adolescents. However, the distinction between HH, particularly partial HH, and SLDP remains problematic. Further research into an integrated framework or scoring system would be useful in aiding clinician decision-making and optimization of treatment. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Aung
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL), London, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vasilis Kokotsis
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL), London, United Kingdom
| | - Kyla Ng Yin
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL), London, United Kingdom
| | - Kausik Banerjee
- Department of Paediatrics, Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gary Butler
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology, University College London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Great Ormond Street (GOS) Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mehul T. Dattani
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology, University College London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Great Ormond Street (GOS) Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Dimitri
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Sheffield Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Leo Dunkel
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL), London, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Hughes
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael McGuigan
- Department of Paediatrics, Countess of Chester NHS Foundation Trust, Chester, United Kingdom
| | - Márta Korbonits
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL), London, United Kingdom
- Department of Endocrinology, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - George Paltoglou
- 2nd Department of Paediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Sophia Sakka
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Evelina Children’s Hospital, Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pratik Shah
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL), London, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen L. Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL), London, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ruben H. Willemsen
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sasha R. Howard
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL), London, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children’s Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Cannarella R, Petralia CMB, Condorelli RA, Aversa A, Calogero AE, La Vignera S. Investigational follicle-stimulating hormone receptor agonists for male infertility therapy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2023; 32:813-824. [PMID: 37747064 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2023.2263364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION According to estimates by the World Health Organization, about 17.5% of the adult population - roughly 1 in 6 globally - experience infertility. The causes of male infertility remain poorly understood and have yet to be fully evaluated. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) represents an available and useful therapeutic strategy for the treatment of idiopathic infertility. AREAS COVERED We provide here an overview of the molecular mechanisms by which FSH stimulates Sertoli cells and the schemes, dosages, and formulations of FSH most prescribed so far and reported in the literature. We also evaluated the possible predictor factors of the response to FSH administration and the indications of the latest guidelines on the use of FSH for the treatment of male infertility. EXPERT OPINION FSH therapy should be considered for infertile male patients with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and normal serum FSH levels to quantitatively and qualitatively improve sperm parameters and pregnancy and birth rates. The grade of evidence is very low to low, due to the limited number of randomized controlled studies and patients available, the heterogeneity of the studies, and the limited effect size. To overcome these limitations, preclinical and clinical research is needed to evaluate the most effective dose and duration of FSH administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Cristina M B Petralia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Avril T, Hennocq Q, Lambert AS, Leger J, Simon D, Martinerie L, Bouvattier C. Gonadotropin administration to mimic mini-puberty in hypogonadotropic males: pump or injections? Endocr Connect 2023; 12:EC-22-0252. [PMID: 36724045 PMCID: PMC10083662 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Newborns with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) have an impaired postnatal activation of the gonadotropic axis. Substitutive therapy with recombinant gonadotropins can be proposed to mimic physiological male mini-puberty during the first months of life. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and biological efficacy of two treatment modalities of gonadotropins administration during mini-puberty in CHH neonates. DESIGN Multicenter retrospective analytical epidemiological study comparing two treatments, pump vs injection, between 2004 and 2019. METHODS Clinical (penile size, testis size, testicular descent) and biological parameters (serum concentrations of testosterone, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and Inhibin B) were compared between the two groups by multivariate analyses. RESULTS Thirty-five patients were included. A significantly higher increase in penile length and testosterone level was observed in the injection group compared to the pump group (+0.16 ± 0.02 mm vs +0.10 ± 0.02 mm per day, P = 0.002; and +0.04 ± 0.007 ng/mL vs +0.01 ± 0.008 ng/mL per day, P = 0.001). In both groups, significant increases in penile length and width, testosterone, AMH, and Inhibin B levels were observed, as well as improved testicular descent (odds ratio of not being in a scrotal position at the end of treatment = 0.97 (0.96; 0.99)). CONCLUSIONS Early postnatal administration of recombinant gonadotropins in CHH boys is effective in stimulating penile growth, Sertoli cell proliferation, and testicular descent, with both treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Avril
- Pediatric Endocrinology Department, CHU Bicetre, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Reference Center for Rare Disease CRMR DevGen, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, Paris, France
- Correspondence should be addressed to T Avril:
| | - Quentin Hennocq
- Datascience platform, Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Lambert
- Pediatric Endocrinology Department, CHU Bicetre, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Reference Center for Rare Disease CRMR DevGen, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, Paris, France
| | - Juliane Leger
- Pediatric Endocrinology Department, CHU Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Reference Center for Rare Disease CRMR de la Croissance et du Développement, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, UFR de Médecine, Paris, France
| | - Dominique Simon
- Pediatric Endocrinology Department, CHU Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Reference Center for Rare Disease CRMR de la Croissance et du Développement, Paris, France
| | - Laetitia Martinerie
- Pediatric Endocrinology Department, CHU Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Reference Center for Rare Disease CRMR de la Croissance et du Développement, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, UFR de Médecine, Paris, France
- Inserm UMR1185, Le Kremlin Bicetre, Paris, France
| | - Claire Bouvattier
- Pediatric Endocrinology Department, CHU Bicetre, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Reference Center for Rare Disease CRMR DevGen, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, Paris, France
- Inserm UMR1185, Le Kremlin Bicetre, Paris, France
- Paris-Saclay University, Paris, France
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9
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Кокорева КД, Чугунов ИС, Карева МА, Безлепкина ОБ. [Puberty induction in boys with congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism]. Probl Endokrinol (Mosk) 2023; 69:59-67. [PMID: 36842078 PMCID: PMC9978876 DOI: 10.14341/probl13141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonadotropin therapy in boys with congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism helps to increase testes volume and induce spermatogenesis in comparison with testosterone therapy. However, difficulties with dose titration, partial therapy success, absence of generally accepted regimen protocols don't allow to use this therapy in order to induce puberty in adolescents with Kallmann syndrome or normosmic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. AIM To assess the effectiveness of combination hormonal replacement therapy via human chorionic gonadotropin and recombinant follicle stimulation hormone in adolescents with congenital isolated normosmic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and with Kallmann syndromeMATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an open single-center prospective non-controlled study. Boys with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were receiving hormonal replacement therapy for 12 months. Initial dose of human chorionic gonadotropin was 500 IU per week. Initial dose of recombinant follicle stimulation hormone was 37.5 IU per week. Doses were doubled in 6 months. Antropometric data, Tanner stage, testes volumes, inhibin B and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels were evaluated in all the patients before the treatment, after 6 and 12 months of the therapy. RESULTS 8 boys with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were included into the study. Median age before therapy initiation was 15.7 years [15.33; 16.41]. In 12 months after the therapy initiation puberty development, testosterone increase from 0.44 [0.34;0.62] to 4.39 [0.88;10.51] nmol/l (p=0.012), AMH decrease from 35.70 [18.00;59.00] to 14.41 [11.60;16.65] ng/ml were noted in all the patients (p=0.017). Testes volumes increase and inhibin B level increase were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION Gonadotropin therapy is effective in order to puberty initiation in adolescents with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. In helps to achieve not only androgenization, but also to Sertoli cells maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- К. Д. Кокорева
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | - И. С. Чугунов
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | - М. А. Карева
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
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10
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Abstract
Infertility affects 15% of couples worldwide and in approximately 50% of cases the cause is secondary to an abnormality of the sperm. However, treatment options for male infertility are limited and empirical use of hormone stimulation has been utilised. We review the contemporary data regarding the application of hormone stimulation to treat male infertility. There is strong evidence supporting the use of hormone stimulation in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism but there is inadequate evidence for all other indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Foran
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Runzhi Chen
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Urology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tharu Tharakan
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Urology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) treatment has been proven effective in stimulating spermatogenesis and improving the reproductive ability of men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, while the usefulness of such a treatment in infertile patients with normal pituitary function is restricted to a subgroup of responders that, however, cannot be identified by the current diagnostic tools before treatment. In this review we summarize the role played by FSH in the modulation of spermatogenesis, the effect of FSH treatment at a standard replacement dose and at higher dose on sperm parameters, spontaneous and in vitro fertilization pregnancy rates, and the efforts made to identify possible responders to FSH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Caroppo
- Asl Bari, Reproductive Unit, Andrology Outpatients Clinics, Conversano, Italy.
| | - Craig S Niederberger
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Engineering, Chicago, Illinois
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12
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Prencipe N, Marinelli L, Varaldo E, Cuboni D, Berton AM, Bioletto F, Bona C, Gasco V, Grottoli S. Isolated anterior pituitary dysfunction in adulthood. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1100007. [PMID: 36967769 PMCID: PMC10032221 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1100007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypopituitarism is defined as a complete or partial deficiency in one or more pituitary hormones. Anterior hypopituitarism includes secondary adrenal insufficiency, central hypothyroidism, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, growth hormone deficiency and prolactin deficiency. Patients with hypopituitarism suffer from an increased disability and sick days, resulting in lower health status, higher cost of care and an increased mortality. In particular during adulthood, isolated pituitary deficits are not an uncommon finding; their clinical picture is represented by vague symptoms and unclear signs, which can be difficult to properly diagnose. This often becomes a challenge for the physician. Aim of this narrative review is to analyse, for each anterior pituitary deficit, the main related etiologies, the characteristic signs and symptoms, how to properly diagnose them (suggesting an easy and reproducible step-based approach), and eventually the treatment. In adulthood, the vast majority of isolated pituitary deficits are due to pituitary tumours, head trauma, pituitary surgery and brain radiotherapy. Immune-related dysfunctions represent a growing cause of isolated pituitary deficiencies, above all secondary to use of oncological drugs such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. The diagnosis of isolated pituitary deficiencies should be based on baseline hormonal assessments and/or dynamic tests. Establishing a proper diagnosis can be quite challenging: in fact, even if the diagnostic methods are becoming increasingly refined, a considerable proportion of isolated pituitary deficits still remains without a certain cause. While isolated ACTH and TSH deficiencies always require a prompt replacement treatment, gonadal replacement therapy requires a benefit-risk evaluation based on the presence of comorbidities, age and gender of the patient; finally, the need of growth hormone replacement therapies is still a matter of debate. On the other side, prolactin replacement therapy is still not available. In conclusion, our purpose is to offer a broad evaluation from causes to therapies of isolated anterior pituitary deficits in adulthood. This review will also include the evaluation of uncommon symptoms and main etiologies, the elements of suspicion of a genetic cause and protocols for diagnosis, follow-up and treatment.
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13
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Kim D, Lee S, Cho YH, Kang MJ, Ku CR, Chi H, Ahn J, Lee K, Han J, Chi S, Song MY, Cha SH, Lee EJ. Long-acting recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (SAFA-FSH) enhances spermatogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1132172. [PMID: 36909328 PMCID: PMC9996080 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1132172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Administration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been recommended to stimulate spermatogenesis in infertile men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, whose sperm counts do not respond to human chorionic gonadotropin alone. However, FSH has a short serum half-life requiring frequent administration to maintain its therapeutic efficacy. To improve its pharmacokinetic properties, we developed a unique albumin-binder technology, termed "anti-serum albumin Fab-associated" (SAFA) technology. We tested the feasibility of applying SAFA technology to create long-acting FSH as a therapeutic candidate for patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. METHODS SAFA-FSH was produced using a Chinese hamster ovary expression system. To confirm the biological function, the production of cyclic AMP and phosphorylation of ERK and CREB were measured in TM4-FSHR cells. The effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists on spermatogenesis in a hypogonadal rat model was investigated. RESULTS In in vitro experiments, SAFA-FSH treatment increased the production of cyclic AMP and increased the phosphorylation of ERK and CREB in a dose-dependent manner. In animal experiments, sperm production was not restored by human chorionic gonadotropin treatment alone, but was restored after additional recombinant FSH treatment thrice per week or once every 5 days. Sperm production was restored even after additional SAFA-FSH treatment at intervals of once every 5 or 10 days. DISCUSSION Long-acting FSH with bioactivity was successfully created using SAFA technology. These data support further development of SAFA-FSH in a clinical setting, potentially representing an important advancement in the treatment of patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daham Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soohyun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Hee Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jeong Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheol Ryong Ku
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjin Chi
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungsuk Ahn
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungsun Lee
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaekyu Han
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Susan Chi
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Moo Young Song
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hoon Cha
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Jig Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Eun Jig Lee,
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14
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Dwyer AA, Stamou M, McDonald IR, Anghel E, Cox KH, Salnikov KB, Plummer L, Seminara SB, Balasubramanian R. Reversible hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in men with the fertile eunuch/Pasqualini syndrome: A single-center natural history study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1054447. [PMID: 36407308 PMCID: PMC9666691 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1054447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) is a heterogeneous genetic disorder characterized by disrupted puberty and infertility. In most cases, HH is abiding yet 10-15% undergo reversal. Men with HH and absent and partial puberty (i.e., testicular volume <4mL and >4mL respectively) have been well-studied, but the rare fertile eunuch (FE) variant remains poorly characterized. This natural history study of 240 men with HH delineates the clinical presentation, neuroendocrine profile, rate of reversal and genetics of the FE variant. We compared three HH groups: FE (n=38), absent puberty (n=139), and partial puberty (n=63). The FE group had no history of micropenis and 2/38 (5%) had cryptorchidism (p<0.0001 vs. other groups). The FE group exhibited higher rates of detectable gonadotropins, higher mean LH/FSH levels, and higher serum inhibin B levels (all p<0.0001). Neuroendocrine profiling showed pulsatile LH secretion in 30/38 (79%) of FE men (p<0.0001) and 16/36 (44%) FE men underwent spontaneous reversal of HH (p<0.001). The FE group was enriched for protein-truncating variants (PTVs) in GNRHR and FGFR1 and 4/30 (13%) exhibited oligogenic PTVs. Findings suggest men with the FE variant exhibit the mildest neuroendocrine defects of HH men and the FE sub-type represents the first identified phenotypic predictor for reversible HH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A. Dwyer
- Boston College William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Center for Reproductive Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria Stamou
- Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Center for Reproductive Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Isabella R. McDonald
- Boston College William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ella Anghel
- Boston College Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Department of Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics and Assessment, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
| | - Kimberly H. Cox
- Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Center for Reproductive Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kathryn B. Salnikov
- Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Center for Reproductive Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lacey Plummer
- Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Center for Reproductive Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stephanie B. Seminara
- Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Center for Reproductive Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ravikumar Balasubramanian
- Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Center for Reproductive Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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15
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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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16
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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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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17
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Lee HS, Shim YS, Hwang JS. Treatment of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in male patients. Ann Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2022; 27:176-182. [PMID: 36203268 PMCID: PMC9537667 DOI: 10.6065/apem.2244208.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is characterized by complete or partial failure of pubertal development because of inadequate secretion of gonadotropic hormones. CHH consists of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with anosmia or hyposmia, Kallmann syndrome, and the normosmic variation normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. CHH is one of the few treatable diseases of male infertility, although men with primary testicular dysfunction have irreversibly diminished spermatogenic capacity. The approach to CHH treatment is determined by goals such as developing virilization or inducing fertility. This review focuses on the current knowledge of therapeutic modalities for inducing puberty and fertility in men with CHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae Sang Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Korea,Address for correspondence: Hae Sang Lee Ajou University School of Medicine, Depar tment of Pediatrics, 5-1 Woncheon-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon 16499 Korea
| | - Young Suk Shim
- Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Korea
| | - Jin Soon Hwang
- Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Korea
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18
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Shankar RR, Shah S, Joeng HK, Mendizabal G, DiBello JR, Guan Y, Stegmann BJ, Nieschlag E, Behre HM, Swerdloff RS, Fox MC, Kaufman KD. Corifollitropin Alfa Combined With Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in Adolescent Boys With Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:2036-2046. [PMID: 35275602 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Adolescent males with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) have traditionally been treated with exogenous testosterone (T) or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to produce virilization; however, those modalities do not result in growth of the testes and may promote premature maturation and terminal differentiation of Sertoli cells prior to their proliferation, which may impact future fertility. Another option is to use gonadotropins in those individuals to induce testicular growth, proliferation and maturation of Sertoli cells, and production of endogenous T with consequent virilization. OBJECTIVE We examined the efficacy and safety of corifollitropin alfa (CFA) combined with hCG for the induction of testicular growth and pubertal development in adolescent boys with HH. METHODS This was a 64-week, multicenter, open-label, single-group study of CFA in adolescent boys, aged 14 to younger than 18 years, with HH. Seventeen participants initiated a 12-week priming period with CFA (100 μg if weight ≤ 60 kg, or 150 μg if weight > 60 kg) given subcutaneously once every 2 weeks, after which they entered a 52-week combined treatment period with CFA, once every 2 weeks, and subcutaneous hCG, twice-weekly (hCG dose adjusted between 500 IU and 5000 IU to keep total T and estradiol levels within protocol-specified ranges). The primary efficacy end point was change from baseline in testicular volume (TV), measured as the sum of volumes of left and right testes by ultrasound. RESULTS After 64 weeks of therapy with CFA/CFA combined with hCG, geometric mean fold increase from baseline in TV was 9.43 (95% CI, 7.44-11.97) (arithmetic mean of change from baseline at week 64, 13.0 mL). Hormonal, Tanner stage, and growth velocity changes were consistent with initiation and progression of puberty. Treatment was generally well tolerated. No participant developed anti-CFA antibodies. CONCLUSION Treatment of adolescent boys with HH with CFA alone for 12 weeks followed by CFA combined with hCG for 52 weeks induced testicular growth accompanied by pubertal progression, increased T, and a pubertal growth spurt (EudraCT: 2015-001878-18).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Eberhard Nieschlag
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Halle, Halle, Germany
| | - Ronald S Swerdloff
- Lundquist Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Torrance, California, USA
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19
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Maione L, Sarfati J, Gonfroy-Leymarie C, Salenave S, Brailly-Tabard S, Chanson P, Trabado S, Kaiser UB, Young J. Reproductive Phenotypes in Men With Acquired or Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism: A Comparative Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e2812-e2824. [PMID: 35358314 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT In men with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH), gonadotropin deficiency and testicular impairment exist since fetal development and persist throughout life. In a few reported cases of acquired HH (AHH), HH onset occurs mainly post pubertally. OBJECTIVE This work aimed to compare the natural history and reproductive status in large series of CHH and lesional AHH evaluated in a single expert academic center. METHODS We included 172 controls, 668 male HH patients (CHH: n = 201 [age 16.9 ± 9.0 years], lesional AHH: n = 467 [age 45.6 ± 18.4 years]) caused by hypothalamic and/or pituitary tumors (mainly adenomas and craniopharyngiomas) or infiltrative/traumatic diseases. RESULTS At diagnosis, CHH were significantly younger, with 52.9% diagnosed before age 18 years, compared to only 9.6% of AHH patients. Cryptorchidism (21.9% vs 0.3%) and micropenis were more prevalent in CHH than AHH patients. Low testicular volume (TV) was present in 97% of patients with CHH (mean TV: 3.4 ± 2.7 mL) but in only 30% of those with AHH (mean TV: 20.8 ± 5.0 mL). Whereas no men with persistent CHH had spontaneous fertility, 70.4% of AHH men fathered at least one child without medical therapy. Total testosterone was lower both in CHH and AHH patients than in controls. Compared to controls, circulating gonadotropins and testicular peptides (insulin-like factor-3 and inhibin B) were decreased both in CHH and AHH, but were significantly higher in patients with AHH. CONCLUSION In AHH patients, the HH has later onset and is less severe than in CHH and the phenotype can overlap with that of individuals with normal laboratory values. Our data suggest that age at diagnosis is a predictor of the reproductive phenotype in AHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Maione
- University Paris-Saclay, F-91405 Orsay, France
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- INSERM UMR-S 1185, Paris-Saclay University, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94276, France
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Julie Sarfati
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Céline Gonfroy-Leymarie
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Sylvie Salenave
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- INSERM UMR-S 1185, Paris-Saclay University, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94276, France
| | - Sylvie Brailly-Tabard
- University Paris-Saclay, F-91405 Orsay, France
- INSERM UMR-S 1185, Paris-Saclay University, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94276, France
- Service de Génétique Moléculaire, Pharmacogénétique et Hormonologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Philippe Chanson
- University Paris-Saclay, F-91405 Orsay, France
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- INSERM UMR-S 1185, Paris-Saclay University, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94276, France
| | - Séverine Trabado
- University Paris-Saclay, F-91405 Orsay, France
- INSERM UMR-S 1185, Paris-Saclay University, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94276, France
- Service de Génétique Moléculaire, Pharmacogénétique et Hormonologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Jacques Young
- University Paris-Saclay, F-91405 Orsay, France
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- INSERM UMR-S 1185, Paris-Saclay University, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94276, France
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Rastrelli G, Maggi M, Corona G. What are the pharmacological considerations for male congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:1009-1013. [PMID: 35674463 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2084690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Rastrelli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi Hospital - Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Careggi Hospital - Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,I.N.B.B. - Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Azienda Usl Bologna Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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21
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Nordenström A, Ahmed SF, van den Akker E, Blair J, Bonomi M, Brachet C, Broersen LHA, Claahsen-van der Grinten HL, Dessens AB, Gawlik A, Gravholt CH, Juul A, Krausz C, Raivio T, Smyth A, Touraine P, Vitali D, Dekkers OM. Pubertal induction and transition to adult sex hormone replacement in patients with congenital pituitary or gonadal reproductive hormone deficiency: an Endo-ERN clinical practice guideline. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 186:G9-G49. [PMID: 35353710 PMCID: PMC9066594 DOI: 10.1530/eje-22-0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
An Endo-European Reference Network guideline initiative was launched including 16 clinicians experienced in endocrinology, pediatric and adult and 2 patient representatives. The guideline was endorsed by the European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, the European Society for Endocrinology and the European Academy of Andrology. The aim was to create practice guidelines for clinical assessment and puberty induction in individuals with congenital pituitary or gonadal hormone deficiency. A systematic literature search was conducted, and the evidence was graded according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. If the evidence was insufficient or lacking, then the conclusions were based on expert opinion. The guideline includes recommendations for puberty induction with oestrogen or testosterone. Publications on the induction of puberty with follicle-stimulation hormone and human chorionic gonadotrophin in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism are reviewed. Specific issues in individuals with Klinefelter syndrome or androgen insensitivity syndrome are considered. The expert panel recommends that pubertal induction or sex hormone replacement to sustain puberty should be cared for by a multidisciplinary team. Children with a known condition should be followed from the age of 8 years for girls and 9 years for boys. Puberty induction should be individualised but considered at 11 years in girls and 12 years in boys. Psychological aspects of puberty and fertility issues are especially important to address in individuals with sex development disorders or congenital pituitary deficiencies. The transition of these young adults highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, to discuss both medical issues and social and psychological issues that arise in the context of these chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nordenström
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health Karolinska Institutet, and Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Nordenström;
| | - S F Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, UK
| | - E van den Akker
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Obesity Center CGG, Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC Sophia Children’s Hospital, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Blair
- Department of Endocrinology, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - M Bonomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - C Brachet
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants HUDERF, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - L H A Broersen
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - H L Claahsen-van der Grinten
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Amalia Childrens Hospital, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A B Dessens
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Sophia Children’s Hospital Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Gawlik
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - C H Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - A Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital – Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Research and Research Training Centre for Endocrine Disruption in Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC) and Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Krausz
- Department of Biochemical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences ‘Mario Serio’, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - T Raivio
- New Children’s Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, Helsinki University Hospital, and Research Program Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Smyth
- Turner Syndrome Support Society in the UK, ePAG ENDO-ERN, UK
| | - P Touraine
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié Salpêtriere Hospital, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université Médecine and Center for Endocrine Rare Disorders of Growth and Development and Center for Rare Gynecological Disorders, Paris, France
| | - D Vitali
- SOD ITALIA APS – Italian Patient Organization for Septo Optic Dysplasia and Other Neuroendocrine Disorders – ePAG ENDO-ERN, Rome, Italy
| | - O M Dekkers
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, LUMC Leiden, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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22
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Alenazi MS, Alqahtani AM, Ahmad MM, Almalki EM, AlMutair A, Almalki M. Puberty Induction in Adolescent Males: Current Practice. Cureus 2022; 14:e23864. [PMID: 35530907 PMCID: PMC9073269 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.23864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Puberty is a developmental stage characterized by the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics which leads to complete physical, psychosocial, and sexual maturation. The current practice of hormonal therapy to induce puberty in adolescent males is based on published consensus and expert opinion. Evidence-based guidelines on optimal timing and regimen in puberty induction in males are lacking, and this reflects some discrepancies in practice among endocrinologists. It is worth mentioning that the availability of various hormonal products in markets, their different routes of administration, and patients/parents’ preference also have an impact on clinical decisions. This review outlines the current clinical approach to delayed puberty in boys with an emphasis on puberty induction.
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23
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Lambert AS, Bouvattier C. Puberty induction with recombinant gonadotropin : what impact on future fertility? Annales d'Endocrinologie 2022; 83:159-163. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2022.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
Hypogonadism can be present in up to 40% in men who present with couple infertility. Testosterone is the major androgen regulating-spermatogenesis in men; as a result, men with either primary or secondary hypogonadism may be subfertile because of impaired spermatogenesis. The clinical impact of hypogonadism on fertility potential depends on the timing of its onset (fetal, prepubertal, or postpubertal) and effect on semen parameters. Treatment pathways and success rates differ according to the cause of hypogonadism and the time of its onset. When medical therapy fails to induce sufficient sperm, assisted reproductive technologies are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikoleta Papanikolaou
- Section of Investigative Medicine Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, 6th Floor, Commonwealth Building, 150 Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Rong Luo
- Section of Investigative Medicine Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, 6th Floor, Commonwealth Building, 150 Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Section of Investigative Medicine Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, 6th Floor, Commonwealth Building, 150 Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK.
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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: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Globa E, Zelinska N, Shcherbak Y, Bignon-Topalovic J, Bashamboo A, MсElreavey K. Disorders of Sex Development in a Large Ukrainian Cohort: Clinical Diversity and Genetic Findings. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:810782. [PMID: 35432193 PMCID: PMC9012099 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.810782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical profile and genetics of individuals with Disorders/Differences of Sex Development (DSD) has not been reported in Ukraine. MATERIALS AND METHODS We established the Ukrainian DSD Register and identified 682 DSD patients. This cohort includes, 357 patients (52.3% [303 patients with Turner syndrome)] with sex chromosome DSD, 119 (17.5%) with 46,XY DSD and 206 (30.2%) with 46,XX DSD. Patients with sex chromosome DSD and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH, n=185) were excluded from further studies. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed for eight 46,XX boys. 79 patients underwent Whole Exome Sequencing (WES). RESULTS The majority of patients with 46,XY and 46,XX DSD (n=140), were raised as female (56.3% and 61.9% respectively). WES (n=79) identified pathogenic (P) or likely pathogenic (LP) variants in 43% of the cohort. P/LP variants were identified in the androgen receptor (AR) and NR5A1 genes (20.2%). Variants in other DSD genes including AMHR2, HSD17B3, MYRF, ANOS1, FGFR11, WT1, DHX37, SRD5A1, GATA4, TBCE, CACNA1A and GLI2 were identified in 22.8% of cases. 83.3% of all P/LP variants are novel. 35.3% of patients with a genetic diagnosis had an atypical clinical presentation. A known pathogenic variant in WDR11, which was reported to cause congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH), was identified in individuals with primary hypogonadism. CONCLUSIONS WES is a powerful tool to identify novel causal variants in patients with DSD, including a significant minority that have an atypical clinical presentation. Our data suggest that heterozygous variants in the WDR11 gene are unlikely to cause of CHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenia Globa
- Ukrainian Scientific and Practical Center of Endocrine Surgery, Transplantation of Endocrine Organs and Tissues of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
- *Correspondence: Evgenia Globa, ; orcid.org/0000-0001-7885-8195
| | - Natalia Zelinska
- Ukrainian Scientific and Practical Center of Endocrine Surgery, Transplantation of Endocrine Organs and Tissues of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Yulia Shcherbak
- National Children’s Specialized Hospital OHMATDYT of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Anu Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institute Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Ken MсElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institute Pasteur, Paris, France
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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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Teoli J, Mezzarobba V, Renault L, Mallet D, Lejeune H, Chatelain P, Tixier F, Nicolino M, Peretti N, Giscard D’estaing S, Cuzin B, Dijoud F, Roucher-Boulez F, Plotton I. Effect of Recombinant Gonadotropin on Testicular Function and Testicular Sperm Extraction in Five Cases of NR0B1 ( DAX1) Pathogenic Variants. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:855082. [PMID: 35432221 PMCID: PMC9006945 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.855082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND NR0B1 pathogenic variants can cause congenital adrenal hypoplasia or primary adrenal insufficiency in early childhood usually associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. NR0B1 is necessary for organogenesis of the adrenal cortex and to maintain normal spermatogenesis. In humans, restoration of fertility in patients carrying NR0B1 pathogenic variants is challenging. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to investigate the clinical, hormonal, histological, spermiological, and molecular genetic characteristics of a cohort of patients with NR0B1 pathogenic variants, monitored for fertility preservation. PATIENTS We included five patients, including four teenagers, with NR0B1 pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants. They all had primary adrenal insufficiency and were receiving replacement therapy with glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Patients received recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone and recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin in order to induce spermatogenesis. Combined gonadotropin treatment was initiated between 13 years and 15 years and 6 months for the four teenagers and at 31 years and 2 months for the only adult. Physical and hormonal assessments were performed just before starting gonadotropin treatment. After 12 months of gonadotropin treatment, physical examination and hormonal assessments were repeated, and semen analyses were performed. If no sperm cells were observed in at least 2 semen collections at 3-month interval, testicular biopsy for testicular sperm extraction was proposed. RESULTS Bilateral testicular volume increased from 8 ml (interquartile range, 6-9) to 12 ml (10-16) after gonadotropin treatment. Inhibin B levels were relatively stable: 110 ng/L (46-139) before and 91 ng/L (20-120) at the end of gonadotropin treatment. Azoospermia was observed in all semen analyses for all cases during gonadotropin treatment. Three patients agreed to testicular biopsy; no mature sperm cells could be retrieved in any. CONCLUSION We characterized a cohort of patients with NR0B1 pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants for fertility preservation by recombinant gonadotropin treatment, which began either at puberty or in adulthood. No sperm cells could be retrieved in semen samples or testicular biopsy even after gonadotropin treatment, indicating that gonadotropin treatment, even when started at puberty, is ineffective for restoring fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Teoli
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, UM Pathologies Endocriniennes, CR DEV-GEN, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Institut Cellule Souche et Cerveau (SBRI), Unité INSERM, Centre de Recherche INSERM, Bron, France
| | - Vincent Mezzarobba
- Fédération d’Endocrinologie, Hôpital Louis Pradel, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Lucie Renault
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Delphine Mallet
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, UM Pathologies Endocriniennes, CR DEV-GEN, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Hervé Lejeune
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Institut Cellule Souche et Cerveau (SBRI), Unité INSERM, Centre de Recherche INSERM, Bron, France
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Pierre Chatelain
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Service d’Endocrinologie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Frédérique Tixier
- Service d’Endocrinologie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Marc Nicolino
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Service d’Endocrinologie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Noël Peretti
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Service de Gastroentérologie, Hépatologie et Nutrition Pédiatriques, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Sandrine Giscard D’estaing
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Institut Cellule Souche et Cerveau (SBRI), Unité INSERM, Centre de Recherche INSERM, Bron, France
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Béatrice Cuzin
- Chirugie Urologique, Centre Lyonnais d’Urologie Bellecour, Lyon, France
| | - Frédérique Dijoud
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Institut Cellule Souche et Cerveau (SBRI), Unité INSERM, Centre de Recherche INSERM, Bron, France
- Service d’Anatomie Pathologique, Centre de Biologie et de Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Florence Roucher-Boulez
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, UM Pathologies Endocriniennes, CR DEV-GEN, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Ingrid Plotton
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, UM Pathologies Endocriniennes, CR DEV-GEN, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- Institut Cellule Souche et Cerveau (SBRI), Unité INSERM, Centre de Recherche INSERM, Bron, France
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
- *Correspondence: Ingrid Plotton,
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Abstract
Clinical manifestations and the need for treatment varies according to age in males with hypogonadism. Early foetal-onset hypogonadism results in disorders of sex development (DSD) presenting with undervirilised genitalia whereas hypogonadism established later in foetal life presents with micropenis, cryptorchidism and/or micro-orchidism. After the period of neonatal activation of the gonadal axis has waned, the diagnosis of hypogonadism is challenging because androgen deficiency is not apparent until the age of puberty. Then, the differential diagnosis between constitutional delay of puberty and central hypogonadism may be difficult. During infancy and childhood, treatment is usually sought because of micropenis and/or cryptorchidism, whereas lack of pubertal development and relative short stature are the main complaints in teenagers. Testosterone therapy has been the standard, although off-label, in the vast majority of cases. However, more recently alternative therapies have been tested: aromatase inhibitors to induce the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis in boys with constitutional delay of puberty and replacement with GnRH or gonadotrophins in those with central hypogonadism. Furthermore, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) priming prior to hCG or luteinizing hormone (LH) treatment seems effective to induce an enhanced testicular enlargement. Although the rationale for gonadotrophin or GnRH treatment is based on mimicking normal physiology, long-term results are still needed to assess their impact on adult fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo A. Rey
- Rodolfo A. Rey Centro de Investigaciones
Endocrinológicas ‘Dr. César Bergadá’ (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de
Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Dr. Ricardo Gutiérrez, Gallo 1330, C1425EFD
Buenos Aires, Argentina
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30
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Cangiano B, Goggi G, Federici S, Bresesti C, Cotellessa L, Guizzardi F, Vezzoli V, Duminuco P, Persani L, Bonomi M. Predictors of reproductive and non-reproductive outcomes of gonadotropin mediated pubertal induction in male patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH). J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:2445-2454. [PMID: 33738751 PMCID: PMC8502167 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01556-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate predictors of testicular response and non-reproductive outcomes (height, body proportions) after gonadotropin-induced puberty in congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH). DESIGN A retrospective analysis of the puberty induction in CHH male patients, undergoing an off-label administration of combined gonadotropin (FSH and hCG). METHODS Clinical and hormonal evaluations before and during gonadotropin stimulation in 19 CHH patients genotyped by Targeted Next Generation Sequencing for CHH genes; 16 patients underwent also semen analysis after gonadotropins. RESULTS A lesser increase in testicular volume after 24 months of induction was significantly associated with: (I) cryptorchidism; (II) a positive genetic background; (III) a complete form of CHH. We found no significant correlation with the cumulative dose of hCG administered in 24 months. We found no association with the results of semen analyses, probably due to the low numerosity. Measures of body disproportion (eunuchoid habitus and difference between adult and target height: deltaSDSth), were significantly related to the: (I) age at the beginning of puberty induction; (II) duration of growth during the induction; (III) initial bone age. The duration of growth during induction was associated with previous testosterone priming and to partial forms of CHH. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that a strong genetic background and cryptorchidism, as indicators of a complete GnRH deficiency since intrauterine life, are negative predictors of testicular response to gonadotropin stimulation in CHH. Body disproportion is associated with a delay in treatment and duration of growth during the induction, which is apparently inversely related to previous androgenization.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Cangiano
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - G Goggi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - S Federici
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - C Bresesti
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - L Cotellessa
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - F Guizzardi
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - V Vezzoli
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - P Duminuco
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - L Persani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - M Bonomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy.
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Bertelli E, DI Frenna M, Cappa M, Salerno M, Wasniewska M, Bizzarri C, DE Sanctis L. Hypogonadism in male and female: which is the best treatment? Minerva Pediatr (Torino) 2021; 73:572-587. [PMID: 34309345 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5276.21.06534-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subjects with hypo-or hypergonadotropic hypogonadism need hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to initiate puberty and maintain it with a normal hormonal status. While general recommendations for the management of HRT in adults have been published, no systematic suggestions focused on adolescents and young adults. The focus of this review is the HRT in males and females with hypogonadism, from puberty to late reproductive age, covering the different management options, encompassing sex steroid or gonadotropin therapy, with discussion of benefits, limitations and specific considerations of the different treatments. METHODS We conducted an extensive search in the 3 major scientific databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar) using the keywords "hormonal replacement therapy", "hypogonadism", "bone mineral density", "estradiol/testosterone", "puberty induction", "delayed puberty". Case-control studies, case series, reviews and meta-analysis published in English from 1990 to date were included. RESULTS By considering the available opportunities for fertility induction and preservation, we hereby present the proposals of practical schemes to induce puberty, and a decisional algorithm to approach HRT in post-pubertal adolescents. CONCLUSIONS A condition of hypogonadism can underlie different etiologies involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis at different levels. Since the long-terms effects of hypogonadism may vary and include not only physical outcomes related to sex hormone deficiencies, but also psychological problems and implications on fertility, the initiation, maintenance and consolidation of puberty with different pharmaceutical options is of utmost importance and beside pubertal development, optimal uterine and testicular growth and adequate bone health should consider also the psychosocial wellbeing and the potential fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Bertelli
- Pediatric and Pediatric Emergency Unit, Children's Hospital, AO SS Antonio e Biagio e C. Arrigo, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Marianna DI Frenna
- Pediatric Department, V. Buzzi Children's Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli - SACCO, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Cappa
- Unit of Endocrinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariacarolina Salerno
- Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Malgorzata Wasniewska
- Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Carla Bizzarri
- Unit of Endocrinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa DE Sanctis
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Regina Margherita Children Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy -
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Shah R, Patil V, Sarathi V, Lila AR, Zacharin M, Krishnappa B, Sehemby M, Jaiswal SK, Jadhav PL, Ramteke-Jadhav S, Shah N, Bandgar T. Prior testosterone replacement therapy may impact spermatogenic response to combined gonadotropin therapy in severe congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Pituitary 2021; 24:326-333. [PMID: 33226541 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-020-01111-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effect of prior testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) on the spermatogenic response to combined gonadotropin therapy (CGT) in severe and partial phenotype congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) patients. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary care center. PATIENTS Patients of CHH without (n = 17) and with prior TRT (n = 18) were subdivided into severe and partial groups, based on mean testicular volume ≤ 3 cc and > 3 cc respectively. INTERVENTION Participants were treated with hMG at a dose of 75-150 U 3/week and gradually escalating doses of hCG until maximum dose (2000 U 3/week or 5000 U 2/week) or serum total testosterone of ≥ 3.5 ng/ml was reached. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Final mean TV, trough serum testosterone (T), sperm concentration RESULTS: Thirty-five patients (20 severe, baseline mean TV of 3.6 ± 2.7 ml) were started on CGT at 24.8 ± 6.1 years. The median duration of prior TRT was 38 (IQR 10-63.75) months in the exposed group. After 33 ± 12 months, final mean TV was 8.9 ± 5.5 ml, 86% achieved serum testosterone > 3.5 ng/ml and 70% achieved spermatogenesis [median 5 (0-12.6) million/ml]. Patients without prior TRT had significantly higher peak sperm count than those with prior- TRT (median 9 vs 0.05 million/ml, p = 0.004). This effect of prior TRT was more pronounced in severe phenotype patients (median 7 vs 0 million/ml, p = 0.01). CONCLUSION Prior-TRT may interfere with spermatogenic response to CGT in CHH patients, especially in those with a severe phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravikumar Shah
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Virendra Patil
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Vijaya Sarathi
- Department of Endocrinology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Anurag R Lila
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India.
| | - Margaret Zacharin
- Department of Endocrinology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Brijesh Krishnappa
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Manjeetkaur Sehemby
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Sanjeet Kumar Jaiswal
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Pratap L Jadhav
- Department of Preventive & Social Medicine, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Swati Ramteke-Jadhav
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Nalini Shah
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
| | - Tushar Bandgar
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College & KEM Hospital, 103, 1st floor, OPD Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 40012, India
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Wang HQ, Zhang WD, Yuan B, Zhang JB. Advances in the Regulation of Mammalian Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Secretion. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1134. [PMID: 33921032 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The reproduction of mammals is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Follicle stimulating hormone, as one of the gonadotropins secreted by the pituitary gland, plays an immeasurable role. This article mainly reviews the molecular basis and classical signaling pathways that regulate the synthesis and secretion of follicle stimulating hormone, and summarizes its internal molecular mechanism, which provides a certain theoretical basis for the research of mammalian reproduction regulation and the application of follicle stimulating hormone in production practice. Abstract Mammalian reproduction is mainly driven and regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which is synthesized and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, is a key regulator that ultimately affects animal fertility. As a dimeric glycoprotein hormone, the biological specificity of FSH is mainly determined by the β subunit. As research techniques are being continuously innovated, studies are exploring the underlying molecular mechanism regulating the secretion of mammalian FSH. This article will review the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways systematically regulating FSH synthesis and will present the latest hypothesis about the nuclear cross-talk among the various endocrine-induced pathways for transcriptional regulation of the FSH β subunit. This article will provide novel ideas and potential targets for the improved use of FSH in livestock breeding and therapeutic development.
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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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Persani L, Bonomi M, Cools M, Dattani M, Dunkel L, Gravholt CH, Juul A. ENDO-ERN expert opinion on the differential diagnosis of pubertal delay. Endocrine 2021; 71:681-688. [PMID: 33512657 PMCID: PMC8016789 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-021-02626-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The differential diagnoses of pubertal delay include hypergonadotropic hypogonadism and congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH), as well as constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP). Distinguishing between CDGP and CHH may be challenging, and the scientific community has been struggling to develop diagnostic tests that allow an accurate differential diagnosis. Indeed, an adequate and timely management is critical in order to enable optimal clinical and psychosocial outcomes of the different forms of pubertal delays. In this review, we provide an updated insight on the differential diagnoses of pubertal delay, including the available tests, their meanings and accuracy, as well as some clues to effectively orientate towards either constitutional pubertal delay or pathologic CHH and hypergonadotropic hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Persani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Martine Cools
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University and Pediatric Endocrinology Service, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mehul Dattani
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Research and Teaching Programme, UCL GOS Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Leo Dunkel
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, EC1M 6BQ, London, UK
| | - Claus H Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
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Abstract
Male congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a heterogenous group of genetic disorders that cause impairment in the production or action of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). These defects result in dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal hormone axis, leading to low testosterone levels and impaired fertility. Genetic testing techniques have expanded our knowledge of the underlying mechanisms contributing to CHH including over 30 genes to date implicated in the development of CHH. In some cases, non-reproductive signs or symptoms can give clues as to the putative genetic etiology, but many cases remain undiagnosed with less than 50% identified with a specific gene defect. This leads to many patients labelled as “idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism”. Medical and family history as well as physical exam and laboratory features can aid in the identification of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) that is associated with specific medical syndromes or associated with other pituitary hormonal deficiencies. Genetic testing strategies are moving away from the classic practice of testing for only a few of the most commonly affected genes and instead utilizing next generation sequencing techniques that allow testing of numerous potential gene targets simultaneously. Treatment of CHH is dependent on the individual’s desire to preserve fertility and commonly include human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH) to stimulate testosterone production and spermatogenesis. In situations where fertility is not desired, testosterone replacement therapies are widely offered in order to maintain virilization and sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam C Millar
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Mount Sinai Hospital and Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hanna Faghfoury
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Fred A Litwin and Family Centre in Genetic Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital and Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jared M Bieniek
- Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute, Hartford HealthCare, Hartford, CT, USA
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Caroppo E, Colpi GM. Hormonal Treatment of Men with Nonobstructive Azoospermia: What Does the Evidence Suggest? J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030387. [PMID: 33498414 PMCID: PMC7864204 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormonal stimulation of spermatogenesis prior to surgery has been tested by some authors to maximize the sperm retrieval yield in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. Although the rationale of such an approach is theoretically sound, studies have provided conflicting results, and there are unmet questions that need to be addressed. In the present narrative review, we reviewed the current knowledge about the hormonal control of spermatogenesis, the relationship between presurgical serum hormones levels and sperm retrieval rates, and the results of studies investigating the effect of hormonal treatments prior to microdissection testicular sperm extraction. We pooled the available data about sperm retrieval rate in patients with low vs. normal testosterone levels, and found that patients with normal testosterone levels had a significantly higher chance of successful sperm retrieval compared to those with subnormal T levels (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.08–2.45, p = 0.02). These data suggest that hormonal treatment may be justified in patients with hypogonadism; on the other hand, the available evidence is insufficient to recommend hormonal therapy as standard clinical practice to improve the sperm retrieval rate in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Caroppo
- Asl Bari, PTA “F Jaia”, Andrology Outpatients Clinic, 70014 Conversano (BA), Italy
- Correspondence:
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Ide V, Vanderschueren D, Antonio L. Treatment of Men with Central Hypogonadism: Alternatives for Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010021. [PMID: 33375030 PMCID: PMC7792781 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Central hypogonadism is a clinical condition, characterized by sexual symptoms and low serum testosterone levels, due to an impaired function of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is the standard treatment for hypogonadism, but it has some disadvantages. TRT is not a good option in men wishing to preserve fertility, nor in men with (a high risk of) prostate cancer, polycythemia, thrombophilia and severe cardiovascular disease. In this review, we discuss alternative treatments for central hypogonadism. If reversible causes are present, non-pharmacological interventions can be therapeutic. Gonadotropins are a good alternative to TRT when fertility is desired in the near future though they require frequent injections. Clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen seem to be a safe alternative for the treatment of functional central hypogonadism in men, as several studies reported a significant increase in testosterone levels with these drugs. However, their use is off-label and data supporting the efficacy of clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen on hypogonadal symptoms are insufficient. For this reason, clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen should not be used in routine clinical practice to treat sexual symptoms in men with central hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle Ide
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (V.I.); (D.V.)
| | - Dirk Vanderschueren
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (V.I.); (D.V.)
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KULeuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leen Antonio
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (V.I.); (D.V.)
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KULeuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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Abstract
CONTEXT Despite the new opportunities provided by assisted reproductive technology (ART), male infertility treatment is far from being optimized. One possibility, based on pathophysiological evidence, is to stimulate spermatogenesis with gonadotropins. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION We conducted a comprehensive systematic PubMed literature review, up to January 2020, of studies evaluating the genetic basis of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) action, the role of FSH in spermatogenesis, and the effects of its administration in male infertility. Manuscripts evaluating the role of genetic polymorphisms and FSH administration in women undergoing ART were considered whenever relevant. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS FSH treatment has been successfully used in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, but with questionable results in idiopathic male infertility. A limitation of this approach is that treatment plans for male infertility have been borrowed from hypogonadism, without daring to overstimulate, as is done in women undergoing ART. FSH effectiveness depends not only on its serum levels, but also on individual genetic variants able to determine hormonal levels, activity, and receptor response. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the follicle-stimulating hormone subunit beta (FSHB) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) genes have been described, with some of them affecting testicular volume and sperm output. The FSHR p.N680S and the FSHB -211G>T variants could be genetic markers to predict FSH response. CONCLUSIONS FSH may be helpful to increase sperm production in infertile men, even if the evidence to recommend the use of FSH in this setting is weak. Placebo-controlled clinical trials, considering the FSHB-FSHR haplotype, are needed to define the most effective dosage, the best treatment length, and the criteria to select candidate responder patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Rochira
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
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Mason KA, Schoelwer MJ, Rogol AD. Androgens During Infancy, Childhood, and Adolescence: Physiology and Use in Clinical Practice. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5770947. [PMID: 32115641 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
We provide an in-depth review of the role of androgens in male maturation and development, from the fetal stage through adolescence into emerging adulthood, and discuss the treatment of disorders of androgen production throughout these time periods. Testosterone, the primary androgen produced by males, has both anabolic and androgenic effects. Androgen exposure induces virilization and anabolic body composition changes during fetal development, influences growth and virilization during infancy, and stimulates development of secondary sexual characteristics, growth acceleration, bone mass accrual, and alterations of body composition during puberty. Disorders of androgen production may be subdivided into hypo- or hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism may be either congenital or acquired (resulting from cranial radiation, trauma, or less common causes). Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism occurs in males with Klinefelter syndrome and may occur in response to pelvic radiation, certain chemotherapeutic agents, and less common causes. These disorders all require testosterone replacement therapy during pubertal maturation and many require lifelong replacement. Androgen (or gonadotropin) therapy is clearly beneficial in those with persistent hypogonadism and self-limited delayed puberty and is now widely used in transgender male adolescents. With more widespread use and newer formulations approved for adults, data from long-term randomized placebo-controlled trials are needed to enable pediatricians to identify the optimal age of initiation, route of administration, and dosing frequency to address the unique needs of their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Mason
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | - Alan D Rogol
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Bollino A, Cangiano B, Goggi G, Federici S, Duminuco P, Giovanelli L, Galazzi E, Vezzoli V, Persani L, Bonomi M. Pubertal delay: the challenge of a timely differential diagnosis between congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and constitutional delay of growth and puberty. Minerva Pediatr 2020; 72:278-287. [PMID: 32418410 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4946.20.05860-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Distinguishing between constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) and congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) may be challenging. CDGP and CHH appear to belong to the same clinical spectrum (with low sex hormones and low LH and FSH), although one is classically transient and known as a self-limited form of delayed puberty (CDGP) while the other is permanent (CHH). Thus, the clinical history and the outcomes of these two conditions require different approaches, and an adequate and timely management for the patients is mandatory. Since the initial presentation of CDGP and CHH is almost identical and given the similarities of CDGP and partial forms of CHH (i.e. patients with partial and early interrupted pubertal development) the scientific community has been struggling to find some diagnostic tests able to allow an accurate differential diagnosis between these two conditions in delayed puberty. In this review we provide an up to date insight on the tests available, their meanings and accuracy, as well as some clues to effectively differentiate between constitutional pubertal delay and pathologic CHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Bollino
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Biagio Cangiano
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy - .,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Goggi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Federici
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Duminuco
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Giovanelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Galazzi
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Vezzoli
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
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44
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Simoni M, Santi D. FSH treatment of male idiopathic infertility: Time for a paradigm change. Andrology 2020; 8:535-544. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Medical Specialties Azienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria of Modena Modena Italy
- BIOS INRA CNRS IFCE Université de Tours Nouzilly France
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Medical Specialties Azienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria of Modena Modena Italy
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45
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Cairo Consensus Workshop Group. The current status and future of andrology: A consensus report from the Cairo workshop group. Andrology 2020; 8:27-52. [PMID: 31692249 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In attempting to formulate potential WHO guidelines for the diagnosis of male infertility, the Evidence Synthesis Group noted a paucity of high-quality data on which to base key recommendations. As a result, a number of authors suggested that key areas of research/evidence gaps should be identified, so that appropriate funding and policy actions could be undertaken to help address key questions. OBJECTIVES The overall objective of this Consensus workshop was to clarify current knowledge and deficits in clinical laboratory andrology, so that clear paths for future development could be navigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Following a detailed literature review, each author, prior to the face-to-face meeting, prepared a summary of their topic and submitted a PowerPoint presentation. The topics covered were (a) Diagnostic testing in male fertility and infertility, (b) Male fertility/infertility in the modern world, (c) Clinical management of male infertility, and (d) The overuse of ICSI. At the meeting in Cairo on February 18, 2019, the evidence was presented and discussed and a series of consensus points agreed. RESULTS The paper presents a background and summary of the evidence relating to these four topics and addresses key points of significance. Following discussion of the evidence, a total of 36 consensus points were agreed. DISCUSSION The Discussion section presents areas where there was further debate and key areas that were highlighted during the day. CONCLUSION The consensus points provide clear statements of evidence gaps and/or potential future research areas/topics. Appropriate funding streams addressing these can be prioritized and consequently, in the short and medium term, answers provided. By using this strategic approach, andrology can make the rapid progress necessary to address key scientific, clinical, and societal challenges that face our discipline now and in the near future.
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46
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Grinspon RP, Freire AV, Rey RA. Hypogonadism in Pediatric Health: Adult Medicine Concepts Fail. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2019; 30:879-890. [PMID: 31471249 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The classical definition of hypogonadism, used in adult medicine, as gonadal failure resulting in deficient steroid and gamete production, and its classification into hypergonadotropic and hypogonadotropic refer to primary gonadal and hypothalamic-pituitary disorders respectively and may lead to under- or misdiagnosis in pediatrics. Indeed, in children with primary gonadal failure, gonadotropin levels may be within the reference range for age. Conversely, since gonadotropins and steroids are normally low during childhood, it may prove impossible to show the existence of a hypogonadotropic state before pubertal age. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and inhibin B arise as more adequate biomarkers to assess gonadal function and increase the possibility of making an earlier diagnosis of hypogonadism in children, which may positively impact on timely management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina P Grinspon
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas 'Dr. César Bergadá' (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Gallo 1330 - C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Analía V Freire
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas 'Dr. César Bergadá' (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Gallo 1330 - C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo A Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas 'Dr. César Bergadá' (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Gallo 1330 - C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Hiort O, Cools M, Springer A, McElreavey K, Greenfield A, Wudy SA, Kulle A, Ahmed SF, Dessens A, Balsamo A, Maghnie M, Bonomi M, Dattani M, Persani L, Audi L. Addressing gaps in care of people with conditions affecting sex development and maturation. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2019; 15:615-622. [PMID: 31406344 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-019-0238-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Differences of sex development are conditions with discrepancies between chromosomal, gonadal and phenotypic sex. In congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a lack of gonadotropin activity results primarily in the absence of pubertal development with prenatal sex development being (almost) unaffected in most patients. To expedite progress in the care of people affected by differences of sex development and congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, the European Union has funded a number of scientific networks. Two Actions of the Cooperation of Science and Technology (COST) programmes - DSDnet (BM1303) and GnRH Network (BM1105) - provided the framework for ground-breaking research and allowed the development of position papers on diagnostic procedures and special laboratory analyses as well as clinical management. Both Actions developed educational programmes to increase expertise and promote interest in this area of science and medicine. In this Perspective article, we discuss the success of the COST Actions DSDnet and GnRH Network and the European Reference Network for Rare Endocrine Conditions (Endo-ERN), and provide recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf Hiort
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck and University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Martine Cools
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alexander Springer
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Interdisciplinary Centre for Paediatric Urology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ken McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics, Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Andy Greenfield
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Stefan A Wudy
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Kulle
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel & University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - S Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Arianne Dessens
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Erasmus Medical Centre - Sophia, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Antonio Balsamo
- Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, External Consultant of the Reference Centre for Rare Endocrine Conditions, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mohamad Maghnie
- Department of Paediatrics, IRCCS, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Milan, Italy
| | - Mehul Dattani
- Molecular Basis of Rare Disease Section, Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Audi
- Growth and Development Research Unit, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
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Mao JF, Wang X, Zheng JJ, Liu ZX, Xu HL, Huang BK, Nie M, Wu XY. Predictive factors for pituitary response to pulsatile GnRH therapy in patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Asian J Androl 2019. [PMID: 29516878 PMCID: PMC6038163 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_83_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) may induce spermatogenesis in most patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) by stimulating gonadotropin production, while the predictors for a pituitary response to pulsatile GnRH therapy were rarely investigated. Therefore, the aim of our study is to investigate predictors of the pituitary response to pulsatile GnRH therapy. This retrospective cohort study included 82 CHH patients who received subcutaneous pulsatile GnRH therapy for at least 1 month. Patients were categorized into poor or normal luteinizing hormone (LH) response subgroups according to their LH level (LH <2 IU l−1 or LH ≥2 IU l−1) 1 month into pulsatile GnRH therapy. Gonadotropin and testosterone levels, testicular size, and sperm count were compared between the two subgroups before and after GnRH therapy. Among all patients, LH increased from 0.4 ± 0.5 IU l−1 to 7.5 ± 4.4 IU l−1 and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) increased from 1.1 ± 0.9 IU l−1 to 8.8 ± 5.3 IU l−1. A Cox regression analysis showed that basal testosterone level (β = 0.252, P = 0.029) and triptorelin-stimulated FSH60min (β = 0.518, P = 0.01) were two favorable predictors for pituitary response to GnRH therapy. Nine patients (9/82, 11.0%) with low LH response to GnRH therapy were classified into the poor LH response subgroup. After pulsatile GnRH therapy, total serum testosterone level was 39 ± 28 ng dl−1 versus 248 ± 158 ng dl−1 (P = 0.001), and testicular size was 4.0 ± 3.1 ml versus 7.9 ± 4.5 ml (P = 0.005) in the poor and normal LH response subgroups, respectively. It is concluded that higher levels of triptorelin-stimulated FSH60minand basal total serum testosterone are favorable predictors of pituitary LH response to GnRH therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Feng Mao
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jun-Jie Zheng
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Zhao-Xiang Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hong-Li Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Bing-Kun Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Min Nie
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xue-Yan Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology, Ministry of Health, Beijing 100730, China
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Abstract
Production of sperm and androgens is the main function of the testis. This depends on normal development of both testicular somatic cells and germ cells. A genetic program initiated from the Y chromosome gene sex-determining region Y (SRY) directs somatic cell specification to Sertoli cells that orchestrate further development. They first guide fetal germ cell differentiation toward spermatogenic destiny and then take care of the full service to spermatogenic cells during spermatogenesis. The number of Sertoli cells sets the limits of sperm production. Leydig cells secrete androgens that determine masculine development. Testis development does not depend on germ cells; that is, testicular somatic cells also develop in the absence of germ cells, and the testis can produce testosterone normally to induce full masculinization in these men. In contrast, spermatogenic cell development is totally dependent on somatic cells. We herein review germ cell differentiation from primordial germ cells to spermatogonia and development of the supporting somatic cells. Testicular descent to scrota is necessary for normal spermatogenesis, and cryptorchidism is the most common male birth defect. This is a mild form of a disorder of sex differentiation. Multiple genetic reasons for more severe forms of disorders of sex differentiation have been revealed during the last decades, and these are described along with the description of molecular regulation of testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juho-Antti Mäkelä
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jaakko J Koskenniemi
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Helena E Virtanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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50
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Dwyer AA, Chavan NR, Lewkowitz-Shpuntoff H, Plummer L, Hayes FJ, Seminara SB, Crowley WF, Pitteloud N, Balasubramanian R. Functional Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism in Men: Underlying Neuroendocrine Mechanisms and Natural History. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:3403-3414. [PMID: 31220265 PMCID: PMC6594303 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-02697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT After completion of puberty a subset of men experience functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (FHH) secondary to excessive exercise or weight loss. This phenomenon is akin to hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) in women, yet little is known about FHH in men. OBJECTIVE To investigate the neuroendocrine mechanisms, genetics, and natural history underlying FHH. DESIGN Retrospective study in an academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS Healthy postpubertal men presenting with symptoms of hypogonadism in the setting of excessive exercise (>10 hours/week) or weight loss (>10% of body weight). Healthy age-matched men served as controls. INTERVENTIONS Clinical assessment, biochemical and neuroendocrine profiling, body composition, semen analysis, and genetic evaluation of genes known to cause isolated GnRH deficiency. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Reproductive hormone levels, endogenous GnRH-induced LH pulse patterns, and rare genetic variants. RESULTS Ten men with FHH were compared with 18 age-matched controls. Patients had significantly lower body mass index, testosterone, LH, and mean LH pulse amplitudes yet normal LH pulse frequency, serum FSH, and sperm counts. Some patients exhibited nocturnal, sleep-entrained LH pulses characteristic of early puberty, and one FHH subject showed a completely apulsatile LH secretion. After decreased exercise and weight gain, five men with men had normalized serum testosterone levels, and symptoms resolved. Rare missense variants in NSMF (n = 1) and CHD7 (n = 1) were identified in two men with FHH. CONCLUSIONS FHH is a rare, reversible form of male GnRH deficiency. LH pulse patterns in male FHH are similar to those observed in women with HA. This study expands the spectrum of GnRH deficiency disorders in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A Dwyer
- Boston College William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Niraj R Chavan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Hilana Lewkowitz-Shpuntoff
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Lacey Plummer
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Frances J Hayes
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stephanie B Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - William F Crowley
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nelly Pitteloud
- Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Service, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ravikumar Balasubramanian
- Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Ravikumar Balasubramanian, MD, PhD, Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Sciences Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Bartlett Hall Extension, 5th Floor, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114. E-mail:
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