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Testicular dysfunction in human immunodeficiency virus-infected men
1Department of Medicine, Cabrini Medical Center, New York, NY 10010, USA.
Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental
|July 1, 1995
Summary
Men with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) often experience hypogonadism, primarily hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Causes are unclear but may involve HIV, infections, illness, or cytokine effects on the reproductive axis.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Infectious Diseases
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Men with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection frequently present with hypogonadism.
- This condition is characterized by clinical and biochemical signs of impaired gonadal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the gonadal function in men with HIV infection.
- To explore the abnormalities, potential causes, and clinical significance of hypogonadism in this population.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on gonadal function in HIV-infected men.
- Analysis of reported hormonal levels (sex hormone-binding globulin, estrogens, androgens, prolactin) and pathological findings.
Main Results:
- Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is the most common abnormality.
- Primary gonadal failure and pituitary insufficiency are also reported.
- Elevated sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and variable levels of other hormones are observed.
- Orchitis is a common pathological finding, though hypothalamic-pituitary abnormalities are rare.
Conclusions:
- The exact causes of hypogonadism in HIV-infected men remain elusive.
- Potential contributing factors include HIV itself, opportunistic infections, chronic illness, and cytokine effects.
- Further research is necessary to understand the clinical significance, treatment, and impact on HIV progression and immunity.