Syndrome Characterized by Gynecomastia, Aspermatogenesis without A-Leydigism, and Increased Excretion of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone1

Abstract

The syndrome under discussion begins during 11 adolescence and is characterised by gynecomastia and a very specific type of hypogonadism. This latter is almost entirely in respect to the function of the tubular tissue (germinal epithelium and Sertoli cells) while the function of the Leydig cells (growth of phallus and prostate and of sexual hair) remains relatively normal. Thus one finds bilateral gynecomastia, small testes, aspermatogenesis. evidence of normal to moderately reduced function of the Leydig cells, increased excretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and usually a reduced excretion of 17-ketosteroids. During the last 4 years, 7 cases have been observed in the clinics of the Massachusetts General Hospital; studies on these patients and two additional private patients form the subject of this report. review of literature Although these cases are not uncommon, few reports are found in the literature, and to our knowledge, no author has grouped them together as a definite clinical entity.