Hypergonadotrophic hypogonadism due to testicular adrenal rest tumours presenting with hypogonadotrophic hypergonadism

Ann Clin Biochem. 2012 Sep;49(Pt 5):497-9. doi: 10.1258/acb.2011.011236. Epub 2012 Jun 25.

Abstract

Primary testicular failure is characterized by low serum testosterone with appropriately high serum gonadotrophins, that is hypergonadotrophic hypogonadism. We report on a 27-year-old man with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and infertility due to testicular adrenal rest rumours (TART) resulting in primary testicular failure but presenting with azoospermia, elevated serum testosterone and very low serum gonadotrophins. Hypergonadotrophic hypogonadism was unmasked by increasing glucocorticoid dosage. It is important to recognise the limitations of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone and testosterone in assessing testicular function in men with CAH. Abnormal semen analysis may be the best indicator of testicular dysfunction in men with CAH.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Rest Tumor / complications*
  • Adrenal Rest Tumor / drug therapy
  • Adrenal Rest Tumor / pathology*
  • Adult
  • Congenital Abnormalities
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone / blood
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hypogonadism / etiology*
  • Hypogonadism / pathology*
  • Infertility / etiology
  • Luteinizing Hormone / blood
  • Male
  • Semen Analysis
  • Testosterone / blood

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Testosterone
  • Luteinizing Hormone
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone