Male hypogonadism is defined as the failure of the testes to produce Androgen, sperm, or both.
There are two basic types of hypogonadism:
- Primary. This type of hypogonadism, also known as primary testicular failure, originates from a problem in the testicles.
- Secondary. This type of hypogonadism indicates a problem in the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland, parts of the brain that signal the testicles to produce testosterone. The hypothalamus produces gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which signals the pituitary gland to make Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone. Luteinizing Hormone then signals the testes to produce Testosterone.
In adult males, hypogonadism may alter certain masculine physical characteristics and impair normal reproductive function. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Infertility
- Decrease in beard and body hair growth
- Decrease in muscle mass
- Development of breast tissue (gynecomastia)
- Loss of bone mass (osteoporosis)
Hypogonadism can also cause mental and emotional changes. As Testosterone decreases, some men may experience symptoms similar to those of menopause in women. These may include:
- Fatigue
- Decreased sex drive
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hot flashes
Risk factors for hypogonadism include:
- Kallmann syndrome
- Undescended testicles as an infant
- Mumps infection affecting your testicles
- Injury to your testicles
- Testicular or pituitary tumors
- HIV/AIDS
- Klinefelter syndrome
- Hemochromatosis
- Previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy
Hypogonadism can be inherited.
