Hypogonadism

Cause

Hypogonadism can have several causes.

• Position of the testicles, disorders of the scrotum and other internal testicular disorders (primary hypogonadism)
• Lack of a signal from the brain (hypophysis) to the scrotum for the production of testosterone (secondary hypogonadism).
• Metabolic causes (e.g. obesity)
• Use of anabolic steroids

Consequences and symptoms

Possible effects and characteristics of a testosterone deficiency:

• Reduced fertility 
• Increased fat mass
• Reduced muscle mass and bone density
• Stunted growth in children 
• Absent or delayed puberty
• Loss of (muscle) strength
• Fatigue, anaemia and depression
• Fewer male characteristics (e.g. less or no body hair)

Treatment

Below you will find a number of possible treatment for this disorder. After the diagnosis your physician will, in consultation with you and the other physician of the team, choose the best solution for you. Your treatment can therefore differ from the therapy/ies suggested below.

• Administer testosterone or gonadotrofins