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A novel NR0B1 pathogenic variant in congenital adrenal hypoplasia presenting with azoospermia and normal testosterone
Andressa Rocha Meireles1, Juliana Beaudette Drummond1, Ana Paula Abreu2
1Endocrinology and Metabolism Unit, Hospital of Clinics, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil.
Abstract:
X-linked congenital adrenal hypoplasia (X-linked AHC) is a rare endocrine disorder causing primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) and often associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH). We report a 23-year-old male with early-onset PAI, normal puberty, and azoospermia despite normal testosterone levels. Whole-exome sequencing revealed a novel NR0B1 pathogenic variant (c.625C>T; p.Gln209). NR0B1, also known as DAX1, is critical for adrenal and gonadal development, and animal models suggest that Sertoli cell dysfunction is a key mechanism of infertility, occurring independently of gonadotropin or androgen deficiencies. Taken together, this case expands the clinical spectrum of NR0B1-related disease and underscores the importance of early genetic testing and consideration of this diagnosis even in patients with X-linked AHC and atypical presentations.
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