Leydig Cell Failure in Adult
What is Leydig Cell Failure in Adults?
Leydig cell failure in adults is an endocrine disorder in which the Leydig cells of the testicles fail to produce sufficient amounts of hormones, such as testosterone and other androgens. It is also known as hypogonadism or male hypogonadism
What Can Cause Leydig Cell Failure in Adults?
Leydig cell failure in adults can have a variety of causes, including medical diseases, damage to the testicles, medications, and radiation therapy. Some of the most common causes of Leydig cell failure in adults include:
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g. celiac disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis)
- Injury or trauma to the testicles
- Infectious diseases (e.g. HIV, viral hepatitis)
- Tumors or cancer
- Medications (e.g. antipsychotics, corticosteroids, anabolic steroids)
- Radiation therapy to the pelvis or testicles
- Chemotherapy
- Excess drinking (alcoholism)
- Chronic kidney or liver diseases
- Genetic disorders (e.g. Klinefelter syndrome, Noonan syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome)
- Age (testosterone production naturally declines with age)
Signs and Symptoms of Leydig Cell Failure
The signs and symptoms of Leydig cell failure in adults can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Low sex drive
- Decreased facial and body hair
- Weak or absent erections
- Infertility
- Gynecomastia (enlarged breasts)
- Small or shrinking testicles
- Fatigue
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Depression and irritability
- Low energy
- Decreased bone density
- Weight gain
Treatment of Leydig Cell Failure in Adults
The treatment of Leydig cell failure in adults involves correcting any underlying conditions that may be causing the condition. These can include medications, surgery, lifestyle changes, and/or hormone replacement therapy. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and restore sex hormone levels to normal. Treatment will vary for each individual, depending on the cause and severity of the condition.
Conclusion
Leydig cell failure in adults is a condition in which the Leydig cells of the testicles fail to produce sufficient amounts of hormones, such as testosterone and other androgens. The condition can have a variety of causes, including medical diseases, damage to the testicles, medications, and radiation therapy. Common symptoms include low sex drive, decreased facial and body hair, weak or absent erections, infertility, and gynecomastia. Treatment of the condition involves correcting any underlying conditions that may be causing the condition, as well as lifestyle changes, medications, surgery, and/or hormone replacement therapy.