Description
Testicular hypofunction occurs when the testicles produce less than normal amounts of testosterone. Hypofunction may be caused by a problem that is related to the testes themselves (primary hypofunction) or by low production of luteinizing hormone (LH) by the pituitary gland (secondary hypofunction). LH is released into the blood stream and signals the testes to make testosterone.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on when testicular hypofunction started. If it starts before puberty, boys may have abnormal development of genitalia and male sex characteristics. Onset after puberty may cause decreased sexual drive and infertility.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed. Blood tests will be performed to confirm the diagnosis and to help determine the cause of hypofunction.
Tests:
Testicular ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: Testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, FSH, LH, semen analysis
Specialists:
Endocrinology, Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Pediatric Endocrinology
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed. Blood tests will be performed to confirm the diagnosis and to help determine the cause of hypofunction.
Tests:
Testicular ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: Testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, FSH, LH, semen analysis
Specialists:
Endocrinology, Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Pediatric Endocrinology
Treatment
Treatment usually involves hormone replacement (testosterone) therapy in many cases. If the cause of hypofunction is related to a pituitary problem, testosterone replacement will be sufficient unless fertility is an issue. In that case, special hormones can be given to stimulate the testes.