What is a Hypogonadism?

Hypogonadism is a condition that occurs when the gonads cease producing hormones, or they produce very low levels. In females, the gonads are the ovaries and in males, the gonads are the testes. Hypogonadism affects both males and females. There are two distinct types of hypogonadism. Primary hypogonadism occurs when the ovaries or testes cease to function properly. Central or secondary hypogonadism results when there is an impairment of the hypothalamic system or pituitary gland. 

Primary Hypogonadism in Females

Primary hypogonadism in females may develop in patients suffering from autoimmune disorders, liver disease and kidney disease. Radiation treatments, infection and surgical procedures may also cause primary hypogonadism. 

Ullrich-Turner Syndrome

Ullrich-Turner Syndrome (gonadal dysgenesis) is the most common cause of primary hypogonadism in females. The syndrome is a genetic disorder, in which an entire sex chromosome or a partial sex chromosome is absent or abnormal. 

Females with the syndrome usually suffer from amenorrhea (lack of menstrual cycle) because the ovaries do not function in most cases. Women may also present several distinct physical characteristics. In addition, the syndrome may increase the risk of developing heart conditions, diabetes, vision disorders and several other conditions. It is often accompanied by learning disabilities and memory impairment. 

Secondary Hypogonadism in Females

Secondary hypogonadism can occur in women who have anorexia nervosa and in those who experience extreme and quick weight loss, such as the weight loss experienced after a gastric bypass procedure. It may also develop in women who have been diagnosed with a brain tumor. 

Kallman Syndrome

Kallman syndrome is a congenital disorder, in which the neurons that deliver the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) in the hypothalamic system are absent. Cells are not triggered into producing luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The syndrome is often characterized by anosmia (inability to smell). 

Primary Hypogonadism in Males

Males diagnosed with primary hypogonadism generally notice a decrease in the production of facial and body hair. They may also develop more breast tissue and exhibit muscle loss. 

Klinefelter’s Syndrome

Klinefelter’s syndrome is a congenital disorder, in which there is as least 1 additional X chromosome. Normal male sex chromosome development consists of 1 X chromosome and 1 Y chromosome. The additional X chromosome causes abnormalities of the testes and low testosterone production. 

Mumps Orchitis

Males who contract mumps during adolescence and adulthood may develop primary hypogonadism. The virus can interfere with testicular function and can lead to permanent damage. Additional causes of primary hypogonadism include elevated levels of iron in the blood, chemotherapy and radiation treatments and injury to the testicles. 

Secondary Hypogonadism in Males

In males diagnosed with secondary hypogonadism, testicular development is normal; however, function is abnormal. This is caused by a malfunction in the hypothalamic system or pituitary gland.

Kallman Syndrome

Kallman syndrome occurs in when there is an abnormality in the hypothalamic system. Just as in females, the syndrome is also characterized by anosmia in males. In addition, red/green colorblindness may be present in some men. 

Secondary hypogonadism can also develop as a result of obesity, normal aging process, autoimmune disease, infections and cancer. It can also occur with the use of some medications.

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR

All Article Categories

Suggested Doctors

Sorry, there are no matching doctors in your area
Please choose a different location

,

,

See more Suggested Doctors

Recently Asked Questions