Hypogonadism is a disorder where the testes in men and ovaries in women do not work properly. It can be very distressing. Thanks to the discovery and development of gender specific hormone treatments, men and women with hypogonadism can lead a normal life.
Disease: Hypogonadism
Last update: May 2005
Intro
FAQ:
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What is it?
Hypogonadism is a condition where the testes in men and the ovaries in women fail to function properly.
In men, low levels of the male hormone testosterone in the blood can cause alterations in hair distribution, poor muscle and bone development, lack of energy, diminished sexual function, and anaemia.
In women, the most common feature is absence of periods. Blood levels of the hormone estradiol are low, which can result in infertility, decreased libido and osteoporosis. -
Who gets it?
Primary hypogonadism, which develops before puberty, is more common in boys than girls. The most common cause is a genetic disorder, Klinefelter syndrome, which occurs in approximately one case per 1,000 live births. The equivalent disorder in girls is Turner syndrome, which occurs in approximately one case per 5,000 live births.
The risk of hypogonadism developing after puberty is rare and its incidence is equal in both sexes. -
What can be done about it?
Over the past 20 years, there have been many successful developments in this disease area. Patients with hypogonadism are now able to lead normal lives.
Many new formulations of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are now available to increase blood levels of testosterone or estradiol. These include tablets, patches, gels and implants.
Fertility can be restored in several patients with gonadotrophin injections. -
What does the future hold?
A new long acting, injectable treatment for testosterone deficiency has recently received approval in Europe. Its slow release formula means patients only require 4 injections a year. Research has also revealed a higher incidence of hypogonadism in patients suffering from conditions such as diabetes and AIDS. The development of new treatments for these diseases should help reduce the effects of hypogonadism.