Clomiphene citrate therapy in a patient with Laennec's cirrhosis

Clomiphene citrate therapy was initiated in a male with Laennec's cirrhosis complicated by gynecomastia, testicular atrophy, impotence, and loss of libido. The patient had abstained from alcohol and had stable hepatic function tests for 1 year before starting therapy. Luteinizing hormone and endogenous testosterone levels were maximally elevated with low dose therapy (50 mg per day). Follicle-stimulating hormone was maximally elevated with a dose of 100 mg per day and the elevation of total estrogen levels was not affected by increasing the dose. During treatment increase in testicular size was noted with resolution of impotence and improvement of libido which continued for 6 months after cessation of therapy. Gynecomastia remained unchanged despite the increased serum testosterone. Serum prolactin was normal before and after the clomiphene citrate. Semen initially unobtainable was analyzed after completion of therapy. The patient relapsed 8 months after the course of clomiphene citrate therapy.