Related Experiment Videos
Gender assignment in male pseudohermaphrodite children
Urology
|December 1, 1983
Summary
Gender assignment for 17 children with 46 XY karyotype and ambiguous genitalia was reviewed. Factors influencing decisions included age, parental choice, and genital abnormalities, not solely microphallus.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Genetics
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Male pseudohermaphroditism (46 XY karyotype with ambiguous genitalia) presents complex challenges for gender assignment.
- Previous studies highlight the importance of various factors in determining the sex of rearing for affected individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review gender assignment decisions in children with male pseudohermaphroditism.
- To identify key factors influencing the chosen gender in a cohort of patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 17 children diagnosed with male pseudohermaphroditism (microphallus, ambiguous genitalia, 46 XY karyotype).
- Analysis of factors influencing gender assignment, including age at presentation, parental decisions, and presence of other abnormalities.
Main Results:
- Five children were raised as females; three had families with prior androgen insensitivity experience, and two had significant perineal abnormalities.
- Twelve children were raised as males; six were not considered for reassignment due to advanced age or parental refusal.
- Parental acceptance of gender reassignment was not solely based on microphallus.
Conclusions:
- Gender assignment in male pseudohermaphroditism is multifactorial, involving parental preferences, age, and anatomical considerations.
- Androgen stimulation shows promise for predicting phallic growth potential, but requires long-term evaluation.