HealthTree Blog

Hypogonadism is a term used to describe decreased levels of testosterone in males. Testosterone is the hormone which causes male sexual development, especially during puberty. Symptoms of hypogonadism can appear as early as birth, because testosterone is important for male sexual development all during a male’s life. A male baby, who is born with sexual organs that are too small, even for an infant, may be suffering from hypogonadism. (In severe cases, the sexual organs may be so small that it is difficult to tell if the child is male or female).
If the male sexual organs are normal in size at birth, but a young boy fails to enter puberty, or even show signs that he is entering puberty, this is another symptom of hypogonadism. Low testosterone levels at puberty may delay or even prevent normal sexual development in an adolescent.
Hypogonadism will cause a lack of hair growth on the face and body, as well as normal development of muscle mass. In addition, an adolescent with hypogonadism may not experience the normal deepening of the voice, and may also develop too much breast tissue.
Hypogonadism is diagnosed through a physical exam, in which a physician checks for the symptoms listed above, as well as a blood test to check testosterone levels. In addition, tests may also be performed to check for abnormalities in pituitary gland function.

Treatment for hypogonadism includes supplementation of testosterone, which can be administered via injections, pills, a skin patch, or topical gel. Pituitary hormone treatment is warranted if an improperly functioning pituitary gland is the cause.