Hypogonadism refers to a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. This occurs when the testes or ovaries do not function properly due to a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus.
In men, symptoms include:
In women, symptoms include:
Diagnosis involves getting a medical history, physical exam including puberty stage evaluation, hormone level tests, genetics tests, and imaging tests sometimes.
Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause but aim to replace missing hormones. Options include testosterone/estrogen replacement, hCG therapy, and fertility medications. The outlook depends greatly on the cause and proper treatment. Replacement therapy can effectively manage symptoms in many cases, although infertility can still occur. Early diagnosis and hormone treatment from childhood years yields the best outcomes. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions! Hypogonadism is a complex disorder with many facets. The key is identifying the root cause and starting appropriate management. With proper treatment guided by an endocrinologist at Harmony Health, people with hypogonadism can live full, healthy lives.