Isolated follicle-stimulating hormone deficiency in man

Fertil Steril. 1977 Aug;28(8):818-22. doi: 10.1016/s0015-0282(16)42734-2.

Abstract

Two men with serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) persistently below 3 mIU/ml and normal levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), growth hormone, prolactin, cortisol, and testosterone are reported. The intravenous administration of thyrotropin-releasing factor led to a normal increase in TSH and prolactin levels. Gonadotropin-releasing factor stimulation resulted in a net increase of 2 mIU/ml and 25 mIU/ml for FSH and LH, respectively. The administration of clomiphene resulted in a normal FSH increase in both patients, an LH increase in one, and a serum testosterone increase in the other. These results suggest a possible defect for FSH production at a level above the pituitary. Semen analyses revealed abnormalities in motility and morphology. A testicular biopsy from one patient revealed delayed maturation of spermatogenesis. It is recommended that serum FSH determinations be included in studies of male infertility patients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Clomiphene / administration & dosage
  • Female
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone / deficiency*
  • Growth Hormone / blood
  • Humans
  • Hydrocortisone / blood
  • Infertility, Male / diagnosis*
  • Luteinizing Hormone / blood
  • Male
  • Pituitary Hormone-Releasing Hormones / administration & dosage
  • Prolactin / blood
  • Spermatogenesis
  • Testosterone / blood
  • Thyrotropin / blood
  • Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Pituitary Hormone-Releasing Hormones
  • Clomiphene
  • Testosterone
  • Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone
  • Prolactin
  • Luteinizing Hormone
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone
  • Thyrotropin
  • Growth Hormone
  • Hydrocortisone