Azoospermia in testicular sarcoidosis is an indication for corticosteroid therapy.
OBJECTIVE
To report improvement of azoospermia and hypogonadism after high-dose corticosteroid therapy in a patient with testicular sarcoidosis.


METHODS
Case report.


METHODS
University hospital.


METHODS
A 27-year-old man with testicular sarcoidosis and azoospermia.


METHODS
High-dose corticosteroid therapy was commenced in an attempt to improve sperm count and restore gonadal function.


METHODS
Analysis of sperm count, T, and gonadotropin response to steroid therapy.


RESULTS
FSH and LH concentrations decreased and T levels increased in parallel with control of disease activity with steroid therapy. Repeat semen analysis demonstrated a significant increase in sperm count, allowing sperm banking to take place.


CONCLUSIONS
High-dose corticosteroid therapy may be indicated in testicular sarcoidosis, not only for control of systemic disease activity but also for recovery of gonadal function and spermatogenesis.
Rees
D Aled
DA
Department of Medicine, University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom. reesda@cf.ac.uk
Dodds
Alex L
AL
Rathbone
Nia
N
Davies
J Stephen
JS
Scanlon
Maurice F
MF
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000328:Adult; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone / Q000097:blood; D008297:Male; D009845:Oligospermia / Q000209:etiology*; D012507:Sarcoidosis / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D013076:Sperm Count; D013091:Spermatogenesis / Q000187:drug effects; D013733:Testicular Diseases / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone