Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism

What is Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism?

Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism is a medical condition characterized by failure of the testes (testicles) to produce testosterone and other hormones. It is a form of primary hormonal disorder in men. It may also be referred to as HGHH, hypergonadism or hypogonadism. This condition is caused by a disorder in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, in which the hypothalamus secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary to the testes. This hormone imbalance affects the production of testosterone.

Symptoms of Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism

The primary signs and symptoms of hypergonadotropic hypogonadism include:

Infertility
Reduced libido (sex drive)
Delayed or incomplete sexual maturation, such as delayed in puberty
Breast enlargement (gynecomastia)
Erectile dysfunction
Loss of body hair
Decreased muscle mass
Low bone mineral density
Fatigue

Causes of Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism

Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism can be caused by several different conditions, including:

Klinefelter syndrome, a genetic disorder in which a male has two or more X chromosomes
Tumors of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus
HIV/AIDS
Infections, such as mumps or meningitis
Injury or trauma to the testes, such as testicular torsion
Radiation therapy to the testes
Use of certain medications, such as anabolic steroids
Genetic or inherited disorders, such as Kallmann syndrome

Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism

Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism is diagnosed with a physical exam and tests of hormone levels, including testosterone, LH and FSH. Treatment options may include medication, hormone therapy or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of HGHH.