HORMONAL-THERAPY OF MALE HYPOGONADISM

Male hypogonadism occurs commonly in clinical practice and has signifi cant effects on the well being of patients. For example, Klinefelter's syndrome, a primary testicular disorder, occurs in approximately 1 in 500 men and results in both androgen deficiency and infertility.(28) The clinical manifestations of male hypogonadism usually can be treate d effectively. Androgen deficiency in men with Klinefelter's syndrome can be treated with testosterone replacement; however, the infertility is irreversible. In contrast, both androgen deficiency and infertilit y can be corrected using gonadotropin therapy in men with hypogonadotr opic hypogonadism. Appropriate hormonal therapy of men with hypogonadi sm requires an understanding of the normal physiologic regulation of t he testis and the pathophysiology underlying testicular dysfunction.