Abstract
A delayed maturation in endocrine testicular function of cryptorchids was suggested by previous data. In the present study plasma Testosterone (T) Androstenedione (A) 17 OH-Progesterone (17 OHP) Progesterone (p) and Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) were evaluated by specific radioimmunoassay before and after stimulation with HCG, 1500 U every other day, plasma samples being collected the day after 1 (1500 U), 3 (4500 U) and 9 injections (13500 U) in 24 prepubertal cryptorchids and 12 controls aged 4 to 13 years.
In cryptorchids basal levels for all steroids were similar to those of controls. Post stimulatory increase after 1500U was not significant, or of poor significance in both groups. After 4500 U the increase for all steroids except DHA was highly significant (p<O.01) in both groups. The response of cryptorchids for T and A was significantly lower than in controls (p<0.01), while 17 OHP and P showed no significant difference. Results were similar after 13500 U. No difference appeared between unilateral (14 cases) and bilateral (10 cases).
It may be concluded : 1/ that 3 injections of 1500 U seem advisable for comparison of the two groups studied; 2/ that with this dose T and A response is significantly lower in cryptorchids than in controls. The present data suggest a prepubertal impairment of Leydig cell function in uni and bilateral cryptorchidism, possibly related to quantitative and/or qualitative testicular defect.
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Canlorbe, P., Toublanc, J., Scholler, R. et al. PREPUBERTAL TESTICULAR RESPONSE TO CHORIONIC GONADOTROPIN IN CRYPTORCHIDISM. Pediatr Res 9, 686 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197508000-00118
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197508000-00118