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Male gonads in leprosy--a clinico-pathological study
P Nigam1, R D Mukhija, K K Kapoor
1Deptt. of Pathology, Baba Ragay Das Medical College, Gorakhpur.
Indian Journal of Leprosy
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Leprosy significantly impacts male reproductive health, causing testicular changes and reduced sperm count in lepromatous and borderline cases. This study highlights the need for monitoring gonadal function in patients with these leprosy types.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Andrology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease, can affect various organ systems.
- Gonadal involvement is a potential complication in male leprosy patients, impacting reproductive health.
- Understanding the spectrum of testicular changes is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and nature of gonadal involvement in male leprosy patients.
- To correlate clinical manifestations with histopathological findings in the testes.
- To assess the impact of leprosy on sperm parameters and sexual function.
Main Methods:
- A study involving sixty randomly selected male leprosy patients.
- Assessment of clinical signs including testicular pain, swelling, size, sensation, and sexual hair pattern.
- Evaluation of sexual function and hormonal profiles.
- Semen analysis (spermogram) to determine sperm count and motility.
- Histopathological examination of testicular biopsies.
Main Results:
- Testicular and epididymal changes were observed exclusively in lepromatous and borderline leprosy cases.
- Testicular pain and/or swelling were common presenting features.
- Significant alterations in sexual function (56.6%), spermogram (azoospermia 35%, oligospermia 26.6%), and gynecomastia (9 cases) were noted.
- Histopathology confirmed leprous pathology in testes, regardless of clinical presentation or semen quality.
Conclusions:
- Leprosy, particularly lepromatous and borderline forms, frequently leads to significant gonadal dysfunction in males.
- Clinical and seminal abnormalities are common, necessitating thorough reproductive health assessment.
- Histopathological evidence of leprosy in the testes is consistent, underscoring the disease's direct impact on reproductive organs.