Richter JG et al. – This study revealed an unexpected high rate of hypogonadism irrespective of cyclophosphamide use, and subclinical involvement of the testes by the vasculitis itself might be an alternative explanation. Screening during the course of the disease is reasonable as hypogonadism might severely affect patients' quality of life. Methods
Systematic analyses with respect to the reproductive system in Wegener's granulomatosis (WG)
Data of a cross-sectional study of sexual hormones in 19 male WG pts were analysed
Disease extension was classified according to the ears, nose, and throat (E), lungs (L), and kidneys (K) classification (ELK classification) and to the disease extent index (DEI)
Laboratory investigation included measurement of gonadotrophins, oestradiol, and total serum testosterone
Hypogonadism was defined by an increase in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) beyond twice the upper reference range in the presence of low serum testosterone
38 age-matched men served as controls
Results
Hypogonadism was found in 52.6% of the pts but was not detectable in any of the controls
No significant correlation to any clinical factor of systemic vasculitis, current or past medication was detected
In particular, testosterone or FSH levels were not correlated with current or cumulative use of cyclophosphamide or corticosteroids
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