Restoration of spermatogenesis with pulsatile gonadotrophin releasing hormone therapy in hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism of traumatic etiology.
Head trauma is one of the rarest reported causes of hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism and treatment of this condition with pulsatile gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) has not been previously described. A 36-year-old man with azoospermia from hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism following head trauma was given pulsatile GnRH therapy. 10 micrograms of GnRH was administered every 90 minutes through a subcutaneous catheter in the abdominal wall. After 15 months, the ejaculate contained 34 x 10(6) spermatozoa/ml of semen. Prolonged pulsatile GnRH therapy can restore gonadal function in males with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism of traumatic etiology. Our experience adds to the growing spectrum of hypothalamic disorders causing hypogonadism that is amenable to treatment by this method.
Fok
A C
AC
University Department of Medicine, Singapore General Hospital.
Tsakok
F H
FH
Sum
C F
CF
Cheah
J S
JS
D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D007987:Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006728:Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007006:Hypogonadism / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D007260:Infusion Pumps; D008297:Male; D009845:Oligospermia / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D013091:Spermatogenesis / Q000187:drug effects
D006728:Hormones; D007987:Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone