Comparison of topical versus parenteral testosterone in children with microphallic hypospadias

Abstract

Surgical correction of genital defects was formerly proposed when the size of the penis was sufficient to permit easy surgical repair. To enlarge penile size, temporary stimulation with testosterone either topical or parenteral has been reported. Parenteral testosterone has been found to be effective; however, variable results have been reported with topical testosterone. This study was taken up as an attempt to compare the efficacy of parenteral versus topical testosterone application. Twenty-one consecutive children with microphallic hypospadias were randomized to receive either topical or parenteral testosterone prior to surgery. Penile length, glans circumference and secondary effects were recorded before and after therapy by the same observer. Significant penile growth was noticed in both the groups of children when compared with pre-therapy size. The desired therapeutic effect of significant penile growth following testosterone was achieved in both the groups of children. There was no significant difference between the two routes of administration.