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A Management Protocol for Gonad Preservation in Patients with Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome
Erica M Weidler1, Maria E Linnaus2, Arlene B Baratz3
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, Arizona.
Abstract:
Historically, individuals with androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) were managed with removal of gonadal tissue at various ages to avert the risk of gonadal malignancy. Recently, clinical practice changed, with gonadectomy being postponed until late adolescence. Adolescents and adults with complete AIS have questioned this approach. Additionally, testicular germ cell tumors are increasingly believed to be quite rare with rates as low as 0% in molecularly confirmed individuals with AIS. Gonadectomy deprives patients of the benefits of their endogenous hormones and potential fertility. Furthermore, human rights organizations advocate for deferring irreversible surgery in conditions known as differences of sex development, which includes AIS, to allow patient autonomy in decision-making. Recent literature supports an approach that uses risk stratification to manage gonads in AIS. Herein we review what is known about malignancy risk in the different subtypes of AIS and propose a management protocol for gonad retention.
Insights
Management of gonads in androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) is shifting. Current evidence suggests gonadectomy can be deferred, preserving hormonal benefits and fertility while respecting patient autonomy in differences of sex development.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Historically, gonadectomy was standard for individuals with androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) to mitigate malignancy risk.
- Recent shifts in clinical practice advocate for postponing gonadectomy until late adolescence.
- This approach is questioned by adolescents and adults with complete AIS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on malignancy risk in different subtypes of AIS.
- To propose a management protocol for gonad retention in AIS.
- To address patient autonomy and the benefits of endogenous hormones and potential fertility.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on gonadal malignancy risk in AIS subtypes.
- Analysis of data supporting risk stratification for gonad management.
- Consideration of ethical and human rights perspectives on surgical deferral.
Main Results:
- Testicular germ cell tumors are increasingly recognized as rare in molecularly confirmed AIS, with some studies reporting 0% incidence.
- Gonadectomy deprives patients of essential endogenous hormones and potential fertility.
- Risk stratification offers a more nuanced approach to managing gonads in AIS.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence supports a risk-stratified approach to gonad management in AIS, moving away from routine early gonadectomy.
- Deferring gonadectomy respects patient autonomy and preserves hormonal function and fertility.
- Further research and individualized protocols are needed for optimal care in differences of sex development.
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