[Induction of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism].
BACKGROUND
Reduced or missing sperm production is the main reason for infertility in a third of the couples who seek treatment. An uncommon cause of testicular failure is hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. This review article discusses causes of this condition in men, medical treatment and prognosis with regard to fertility.


METHODS
The review is based on a recent literature survey and many years of clinical experience with infertile patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Hormonal regulation of the spermatogenesis involves complex interaction between structural elements (paracrine and endocrine) in the testicle and the endocrine system. Hormonal treatment of men with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism comprises injections of gonadotrophins, administered by the patient in close cooperation with a specialist. It may be necessary to maintain this treatment for up to two years, but it is usually effective in initiating or restoring of spermatogenesis.
Oldereid
Nan B
NB
Seksjon for barnløshet og assistert befruktning, Rikshospitalet, 0027 Oslo. nan.oldereid@rikshospitalet.no
Tanbo
Tom
T
D053713:Azoospermia / Q000188:drug therapy; D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006062:Gonadotropins / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D007006:Hypogonadism / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D007248:Infertility, Male / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D011379:Prognosis; D020554:Sperm Injections, Intracytoplasmic; D013091:Spermatogenesis / Q000187:drug effects*
D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin; D006062:Gonadotropins; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone