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Hypergonadism is a condition where there is a hyperfunction of the gonads.^[1] It can manifest as precocious puberty, and is caused by abnormally high levels of testosterone or estrogen, crucial hormones for sexual development. In some cases, it may be caused by a tumor, which can be malignant, but is more commonly benign.^[2] Anabolic steroids may also be a major cause of high androgen and estrogen functional activity. Other possible causes include head injuries and brain inflammatory diseases.^[3] Hypergonadism may contribute to symptoms such as precocious puberty and abnormal facial hair growth in females.^[4]

Symptoms

Men and women exhibit different symptoms for hypergonadism. A few of the symptoms that men can experience are increased sex drive, early balding, excessive muscle mass, and acne. Women can have symptoms such as, increased growth of facial hair, deepened voice, coarse body hair, and an irregular menstrual cycle.^[5]

Historical Understanding

In ancient civilizations, hypogonadism was often misunderstood and poorly differentiated from other health issues. Conditions related to sexual development and function were commonly attributed to imbalances of the humors in ancient Greek and Roman medicine.^[6] During the Renaissance, there was some early recognition of endocrine system function, but it wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that hypogonadism was properly identified and linked to hormone production issues. This shift in understanding followed the development of endocrinology as a distinct medical field. ^[6]

Cultural & Social Impacts

Throughout history, individuals with symptoms of hypogonadism, particularly men who exhibited low libido, infertility, or underdeveloped secondary sexual characteristics, often faced social stigma.^[7] In many cultures, fertility and sexual vitality were closely tied to masculinity and virility, leading to shame and social exclusion for those affected by the condition. In modern times, however, greater awareness of hypogonadism as a medical condition has reduced some of the social stigma, particularly as hormone replacement therapies have become more widely available.^[7]

Environmental & Dietary Factors

Environmental and dietary factors have also been linked to the prevalence of hypogonadism, particularly in regions where malnutrition or environmental toxins are common. For example, exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) has been associated with reduced testosterone levels in men.^[8] In historical contexts, poor nutrition during periods of famine or in areas with inadequate food diversity may have contributed to higher rates of hypogonadism, particularly in younger males.^[8]

Medical & Technological Advancements

Significant medical advances have revolutionized the treatment of hypogonadism. The discovery of testosterone in 1935 led to the development of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), which has since become a cornerstone treatment for male hypogonadism. Additionally, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women has advanced, providing solutions for conditions such as menopause-related hypogonadism.^[9] Advances in reproductive technology have also enabled individuals with hypogonadism to conceive using assisted reproductive techniques, further improving quality of life.^[9]

While hypogonadism has historically been a misunderstood condition with social consequences, modern medical advancements have led to effective treatments and a better understanding of the underlying causes. Research continues into the environmental and dietary factors contributing to this condition, ensuring that future medical interventions will be even more effective at preventing and managing hypogonadism in both men and women.

References

^ Danner HG (2014). A Thesaurus of English Word Roots. Rowman & Littlefield. p. 350. ISBN 978-1-4422-3326-3. Retrieved 3 May 2021.
^ Grossmann, Mathis (2018-05-16). "Hypogonadism and male obesity: Focus on unresolved questions". Clinical Endocrinology. 89 (1): 11–21. doi:10.1111/cen.13723. hdl:11343/283894. ISSN 0300-0664.
^ Molina PE (2018). Endocrine physiology (Fifth ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Education. ISBN 978-1-260-01935-3.
^ "An Overview of Hypergonadism". CCCHC. 2020. Retrieved 2022-07-25.
^ "Hypergonadism". hospitals.aku.edu. Retrieved 2022-07-25.
^ ^a ^b Medvei, V. C. (1982). "A History of Endocrinology". Springer Science & Business Media. doi:10.1007/978-94-009-7304-6.
^ ^a ^b Sissa, Giulia (1992-03-01). "Membres à fantasmes". Terrain (18): 80–86. doi:10.4000/terrain.3034. ISSN 0760-5668.
^ ^a ^b Rochira, Vincenzo; Guaraldi, Giovanni (September 2019). "Hypogonadism in the HIV-Infected Man". Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America. 43 (3): 709–730. doi:10.1016/j.ecl.2014.06.005. ISSN 0889-8529.
^ ^a ^b Nieschlag, Eberhard; Behre, Hermann M.; Nieschlag, Susan (eds.), "Plate Section", Testosterone, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, retrieved 2024-10-02