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Hypogonadism: Pituitary Disease

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Hypogonadism
What is hypogonadism?
Hypogonadism is a medical condition characterized by reduced testosterone production in men due to either testicular failure (primary hypogonadism) or pituitary disease (secondary hypogonadism). Men may develop symptoms such as decreased sexual desire (reduced libido), erectile dysfunction, problems with ejaculation, fatigue, and anemia as a result of low testosterone levels.
Long term, hypogonadism can also result in decreased muscle mass and osteoporosis. Due to the importance of this condition, it is critical that patients understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment. By the end of this article, you will have the answers to these essential questions
• What causes hypogonadism?
• How common is hypogonadism? …show more content…

How is hypogonadism diagnosed?
The diagnosis of hypogonadism is suggested based on symptoms and physical examination, but typically confirmed with laboratory studies. Your doctor will typically obtain total testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, and free testosterone levels. These are typically checked first thing in the morning, around 8am. They will also usually check gonadotroph levels - follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
If you have low testosterone levels and elevated gonadotrophs levels, this suggests primary hypogonadism. In contrast, if you have low testosterone and gonadotrophs levels, this is consistent with secondary hypogonadism.
Your doctor will typically obtain additional tests if the diagnosis of hypogonadism has been confirmed. This can consist of a sperm analysis for sperm count and quality. They also usually order a scrotal ultrasound with Doppler to evaluate testicular structure and assess for adequate blood supply to the testes. If secondary hypogonadism is suspected, your doctor may recommend a brain …show more content…

• Testicular failure can also result in decreased testosterone production – This is called primary hypogonadism.
• The most common causes include: testicular trauma, infection of the testes , testicular torsion, and gonadal tumors requiring removal of testes.
• The diagnosis of hypogonadism is suggested based on symptoms and physical examination, but typically confirmed with laboratory studies.
• Your doctor will typically obtain total testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, and free testosterone levels. These are typically checked first thing in the morning, around 8am. They will also usually check gonadotroph levels - follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
• If you have low testosterone levels and elevated gonadotrophs levels, this suggests primary hypogonadism. In contrast, if you have low testosterone and gonadotrophs levels, this is consistent with secondary hypogonadism.
• If secondary hypogonadism is suspected, your doctor may recommend a brain MRI.
• Primary hypogonadism is typically treated with testosterone replacement therapy. There are various options including intramuscular injections, patches, and

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