Microphallus: distinction between anomalous and endocrine types

Transactions of the American Association of Genito-Urinary Surgeons
|January 1, 1979
PubMed

Insights

Surgical intervention for microphallus is generally not recommended for endocrine-related cases. However, operative treatment may be necessary for anomalous microphallus resulting from developmental defects.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric surgery
  • Endocrinology
  • Developmental biology

Background:

  • Microphallus, a condition of penile underdevelopment, presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
  • Previous literature has largely discouraged operative intervention for microphallus.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To delineate the indications for operative treatment in microphallus.
  • To differentiate therapeutic approaches based on the etiology of microphallus.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical case studies on microphallus.
  • Analysis of treatment outcomes based on microphallus classification.

Main Results:

  • Operative treatment is contraindicated in endocrine-related microphallus due to underlying hormonal or testicular issues.
  • Surgical intervention is indicated for anomalous microphallus stemming from defective morphogenesis.

Conclusions:

  • The management strategy for microphallus is contingent upon its specific type and underlying cause.
  • Distinguishing between endocrine and anomalous microphallus is crucial for appropriate treatment planning.

Related Concept Videos

The Y Chromosome Determines Maleness02:19

The Y Chromosome Determines Maleness

The Y chromosome is a sex chromosome found in several vertebrates and mammals, including humans. In addition to 22 pairs of autosomes, the human males have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. In these organisms, the presence or absence of the Y chromosome determines the development of male traits.
Evolution
Around 300 million years ago, the two sex chromosomes diverged from two identical autosomal chromosomes. Over time, the Y chromosome has lost most of its genes, shrinking in size. Today,...
Structures of the Endocrine System00:59

Structures of the Endocrine System

The intricate framework of the endocrine system encompasses a diverse array of glands, with their target tissues and organs strategically distributed throughout the body. Central to this network are the endocrine glands, specialized structures that lack ducts and release hormones directly into the interstitial fluid. Notably, the hypothalamus, a vital neuroendocrine organ situated in the brain, governs neural functions and serves as a potent source of hormonal regulation. Near the hypothalamus...
The Pituitary Gland01:17

The Pituitary Gland

The pituitary is a small endocrine organ in the sphenoid bone under the hypothalamus. Primarily, the pituitary in adults has two distinct anatomical and functional regions— the anterior and posterior lobes. During human fetal development, a third pituitary gland region called the pars intermedia atrophies and disappears. However, some of its cells migrate and exist adjacent to the anterior pituitary in adults.
Testes: Gross Anatomy01:19

Testes: Gross Anatomy

The testes, also known as testicles, are the male gonads. They are housed within the scrotum, a sac-like structure located beneath the penis. The scrotum's primary role is to regulate the temperature of the testes, which is crucial for sperm production.
Each testis is surrounded by the tunica albuginea, a dense connective tissue layer that provides structural support and protection. This layer is covered by an outer serous membrane called the tunica vaginalis, which helps reduce friction...
Accessory Glands of the Male Reproductive System01:16

Accessory Glands of the Male Reproductive System

The accessory ducts involved in sperm maturation and transportation include the epididymides, vasa deferentia, ejaculatory ducts, and urethra. These ducts play a critical role in the maturation, storage, and transportation of sperm from the testes to the urethra, where it is then released during ejaculation.
The epididymis is a small, comma-shaped organ located at the back of each testicle. The epididymis can be divided into three main parts: the head, body, and tail. The head of the epididymis...
Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus01:15

Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus

Development of the reproductive organs in an embryo starts from a bipotential state. This means the early embryo can develop either male or female reproductive organs. The formation of these organs begins with the growth of gonadal ridges that arise from the intermediate mesoderm during the fifth week of development.
Near the gonadal ridges, two duct systems are present: the mesonephric ducts (Wolffian ducts) and paramesonephric ducts (Müllerian ducts). These ducts form the basis for the male...