Abstract
This study is based upon the hypothesis that cryptorchidism can be accompanied by moderate target organ unresponsiveness to androgens, which is best reflected by specific metabolites, i.e. 5α-androstan-3α, 17βdiol (5aD)-and 5β-androstan-3α, 17βdiol (5βD). We suggest the latter to be a marker for the degree of genital development. In addition, the excretion of testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and androstenedione (AN) was analysed. T+AN was interpreted as “andro genie pool”. Excretion profiles were analysed by capillary gas chromatography, serum T by RIA. Data were evaluated before and after a three days hCG stimulation. 21 boys (age 2-14 yrs) were examined. 7 boys with retractile testicles served as “controls” (group I). For classification purposes the stimulation ratio F (=day3 over day0) was used. Three different groups could be distinguished:
Group II was called “intermediate” and cases of anorchia were Found in group III. Correlation with clinical findings suggest that F:5βD might be the most useful addition to the classical diagnostic procedures. We speculate that the extended analyses night provide same aspects for clinical prognoses.
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Herkner, K., Swoboda, W. 125 CLASSIFICATION OF CRYPTORCHIOISM BY MEANS OF 5β-ANDROSTAN-3α, 17β-DIOL EXCRETION. Pediatr Res 24, 538 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198810000-00146
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198810000-00146