Abstract
PD can be a significant problem for adolescent males. To determine the long term efficacy of a short course of androgen therapy (4 injections of 200 mg testosterone enanthate (T) every 3 wk), we have reviewed 59 PD subjects (age 13.5-17.1 yr) who received either T (n=37) or no therapy (C, n=22). Initially, subjects were Tanner stage 1 or 2. Follow-up data were collected 6 and 12 mo later. Questionnaires were sent to subjects whose initial visits were > 2 yr ago (return rate, 44% for T, 33% for C). To eliminate the effect of age, height data are expressed as Z-scores (HT-Z). (meanĀ±SEM, * - difference p < 0.05)
Preliminary adult HT-Z data from subjects older than 17 yr reveal no significant difference. Survey results indicate 90% of those who received T were quite satisfied and would undergo T treatment again. Increased height, sexual maturation, and self-confidence were all given as major factors in this decision. Side effects were minor: one allergic reaction to the vehicle, mild edema, and occasional joint discomfort. Although HT-Z at 12 mo was greater in the T group, preliminary data suggest no significant effect of this therapy on final adult height. T given in this manner does not decrease final height and is a safe and effective therapy for PD.
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Wilson, D., Kei, J., Hintz, R. et al. SHORN-TERM TESTOSTERONE THERAPY FOR PUBERTAL DELAY (PD). Pediatr Res 21 (Suppl 4), 178 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198704010-00071
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198704010-00071