Anabolic steroid induced hypogonadism in men: overview and case report

Abstract

An important potential consequence of the anabolic steroid misuse is hypogonadotropic hypogonadism due to the inhibition of pituitary secretion of gonadotropins. By the symptoms as testicular atrophy, spermatogenic and fertility disturbances or dysfunction in sexual life, the anabolic steroids induced hypogonadism (ASIH) could be differentiated from organic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism only with difculty unless the misuse is reported by the user. When diagnosed, the crucial step in the therapy is the stop of anabolic use. Convalescence lasts usually several months or even more than one year. First could be seen the retreat of testicular atrophy followed by the rearrangement of spermatogenesis. The users mainly well informed from internet use for amelioration of the symptoms injections of human choriogonadotropin (hCG), selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM) or aromatase inhibitors.