Alternative Names
Primary hypogonadism – male
Definition of Testicular failure
Testicular failure is the inability of the testicles to produce sperm or male hormones.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Testicular failure is uncommon. Causes include:
Signs and tests
A physical examination may reveal:
Treatment
Male hormone supplements may successfully treat some forms of testicular failure. Men who take testosterone replacement therapy need to be carefully monitored by a doctor. Testosterone may cause overgrowth of the prostate gland and an abnormal increase in red blood cells.
Expectations (prognosis)
Many forms of testicular failure cannot be reversed. Hormone replacement therapy can help reverse symptoms, although it may not restore fertility.
Review
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 6/22/2009
