Gonadotropin deficiency in Tourette's syndrome: a preliminary communication

Plasma baseline levels of gonadotropins and sex steroids were measured in 17 patients with Tourette's Syndrome (TS). In addition, a Gonadotropin Stimulation test, using a synthetic Gonadotropin releasing factor analogue (GnRH, 100 micrograms, i.v.), was performed in 7 patients. Plasma levels of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) were uniformly low in all patients, while those of Follicle Stimulating hormone (FSH) and sex steroids were less depressed in some patients and in the normal range in others. In all patients, stimulation with GnRH analogue produced a marked rise in LH levels, but the FSH responses were much less dramatic and did not significantly exceed that of normal controls. Our findings indicate reduced gonadotropin release in patients with TS, and support the hypothesis of hypothalamic involvement in the disease.