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Alternative names Return to top
Gonadotropin deficiency; Kallmann syndrome; Secondary hypogonadismDefinition Return to top
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism describes absent or decreased function of the male testis or the female ovary (the gonads). It results from the absence of the gonadal stimulating pituitary hormones FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone).Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
An area of the brain called the hypothalamus secretes hormones (GnRH) which stimulate the pituitary gland. In response to these hormones, the pituitary gland (located near the brain) secretes other hormones (FSH and LH).
These hormones, in turn, stimulate the ovaries (female) and testes (male) to secrete hormones that are responsible for normal sexual development in puberty. Any disruption in this chain reaction or cascade causes a deficiency of the sex hormones and halts normal sexual maturation.
Failure of the hypothalamus is most commonly a result of Kallmann syndrome. Kallmann syndrome is an inherited disorder that usually includes a disorder of the sense of smell. Failure of the pituitary may result from empty sella syndrome, pituitary tumors (craniopharyngioma), head injuries, or other causes.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
Treatment depends on the source of the defect.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
With proper hormonal stimulation, puberty can be induced and fertility may be restored.
Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if your child does not enter puberty as expected.
Prevention Return to top
Prevention is dependent on the cause. Genetic counseling may be appropriate for individuals with heritable disorders that are associated with hypogonadism. Prevention of serious head injuries reduces the risk of pituitary injury associated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
Update Date: 1/26/2004 Updated by: John Goldenring, M.D., M.P.H, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healtchare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |