[Hypogonadism, a serious complication of chronic renal insufficiency]

Hypogonadism is a frequent complication in patients with chronic renal insufficiency (CHRI). From a pathogenetic point of view, it is a disorder at the level of the hypothalamus caused by central inhibition of the pulsatile generation of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) and by a primary disorder of gonads. The cause of hypogonadism in dialysed patients is not completely known. The effect of inhibition of erythropoietin production is believed to be one of the factors, as well as the adverse effects of complicated therapeutic procedures and malnutrition. In men, the affection manifests itself as a disorder of sexual functions, inhibition ofspermatogenesis, premature andropause and severe fatigue syndrome. Menstruation disorders, premature menopause and anovulation cycles are frequent symptoms in dialysed women. Androgen or estrogen substitution improves the quality of life in both sexes and slows down the loss of bone mass. Complete remission of hypogonadism is obtained, in the majority of patients, by renal transplant. The overview study deals with the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of hypogonadism in dialysed patients.