Reduction In Testicular Volume Research Articles

Color Doppler Ultrasound of the Testis in Young Men with a Serum Testosterone Level below the Average Values of the Standard for a Prolonged Period

Introduction: This study aimed to correlate the testicular volume, ultrasound imaging, and blood flow parameters, determined using color Doppler ultrasonography in young men with a testosterone level below the average values of the standard for a prolonged period. Material and Methods: From January 2013 and December 2019, we examined 73 men aged 37 to 45 years with a testosterone level below the average values of the standard for a prolonged period and а 20 age-matched men with a testosterone level above the average values of the standard. We use color Doppler ultrasound as a method to evaluate the volume, ultrasound imaging and Doppler parameters of the testicular blood flow. Results: We obtained significantly lower but still within the reference range values for total testosterone (p<0.001), compared to those of the control group. We found no differences in the ultrasound characteristics of the testicular parenchyma and significant differences between testicular volumes in patients with a testosterone level below the average values of the standard for a prolonged period and those in the control group. In the color Doppler ultrasound we recorded fluctuations only in the blood flow of a aa.intratesticularis, expressed in a slight increase in the resistance index. Conclusions: Ultrasonography of young men with a serum T level below the average values of the standard for a prolonged period found no reduction in testicular volume and no change in the ultrasound characteristic of the parenchyma, which suggests to us that this is not a congenital condition, but cannot answer the question of whether it will lead to structural changes in the testicles in the future and if so what. The non-significant increase in RI in the intratesticular arteries in all examined men is a non-specific indicator that directs the specialist’s attention to additional testing of total testosterone in patients with complaints from the male reproductive system.

FRI446 A Case Of 46 XX Testicular Disorder Of Sex Development Presenting As Hypogonadism And Infertility

Abstract Disclosure: N. Balachandar: None. S. Agarwal: None. K.K. Soe: None. Introduction: Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism in males can be due to genetic, acquired or developmental causes. Common etiologies of testicular failure include trauma, systemic illnesses, radiotherapy, gonadotoxic drugs, and viral orchitis; in addition, genetic causes should be considered. Here, we present a case of primary hypogonadism and infertility due to 46 XX testicular disorder of sex development (DSD). Case Report: A male in his early fifties with history of obesity presented with fatigue to his PCP. A total testosterone level was 1.8 ng/mL (normal: 1.7 - 7.6 ng/mL) with a repeat value confirming the finding. Bioavailable testosterone was low at 85.1 ng/dL (normal: 110-575 ng/dL). FSH was elevated at 39.9 mIU/mL (normal: 1.3 - 19.3 mIU/mL), and LH was elevated at 16.6 mIU/mL (normal: 1.2 - 8.6 mIU/mL). In endocrinology clinic, he reported a year of fatigue, erectile dysfunction despite normal libido, and an inability to conceive despite three years of regular unprotected intercourse. He noted loss of muscle mass, bilateral breast tissue development, and reduction in testicular size. Physical exam revealed normal phallus, diffusely sparse body hair with atypical male distribution, bilateral gynecomastia, and bilateral reduction in testicular volume (right: 5 mL; left: 8 mL). Chromosomal analysis showed a mosaic pattern of 45 XO in 6% of cells and 46 XX in 94% of cells. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis confirmed the presence of the sex-determining region (SRY) gene in 96% of cells. Metaphase FISH showed cryptic insertion of the SRY gene into the p arm of the X chromosome. Semen analysis showed azoospermia. He was diagnosed with 46 XX testicular DSD with abnormal mosaicism. He was prescribed testosterone gel and counseled on fertility options resulting in improvement of testosterone levels, sexual function, and subjective well-being. Discussion: The SRY gene, normally located on the p arm of the Y Chromosome, is responsible for development of primitive gonads into testicles during embryogenesis. Homologous recombination occurs between chromosomes during gametogenesis. It is hypothesized that in patients with 46 XX DSD, the SRY gene is translocated to the X chromosome, as demonstrated in this case. Its expression helps with selection of male sex in a growing fetus. Thus, in a 46 XX SRY positive male, the phenotypic presentation is male. Since the AZF gene on the q arm of the Y chromosome which is essential for spermatogenesis is not translocated, 46 XX males are infertile and undiagnosed until adulthood when azoospermia is noted during infertility workup. 46 XX SRY negative males develop ambiguous genitalia leading to earlier diagnosis. Eighty-percent of 46 XX males are SRY positive and twenty-percent are SRY negative. Thus, in adult males presenting with infertility and hypogonadism, genetic causes such as 46 XX DSD with SRY translocation should be considered. Presentation: Friday, June 16, 2023

Testicular Atrophy Following Unilateral Herniotomy in Children: A Single Centre Experience

Background: A reduction in testicular mass (testicular atrophy) may occur as a complication of hydrocele/hernia repair in children (herniotomy). The aim of this study was to evaluate for testicular atrophy in children who underwent herniotomy for hernia or hydrocele repair. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study of children aged 15 years and younger who had unilateral herniotomy at the pediatric surgery unit of a teaching hospital in Enugu, Nigeria. Preoperatively and postoperatively (at least 6 months apart), the volumes of both testes were assessed using ultrasound. These specific testicular volumes were compared to determine the degree of change in unilateral testicular volumes relative to the contralateral testis. For the index study, any reduction in testicular volume of more than 20 percent is considered testicular atrophy. Results: A total of 258 cases of herniotomies were seen during the study period. The mean age of the patients, at diagnosis of testicular atrophy, was 2 years, range of 1 to 3 years. About one-fifth (53) of the patient showed more than 20% reduction in testicular volume relative to the contralateral testis. There were more hydroceles than hernias and all the patients had herniotomy. Stitch related complications were the most common post-operative complication. Conclusion: Herniotomy for pediatric inguinal hernia and hydrocele is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in children. However, this procedure is not without complications, testicular atrophy may occur. This study has shown that up to 20% of the children who underwent herniotomy may come down with testicular atrophy.

Testicular Volume in Children with Sickle Cell Anaemia in Uyo, a South-South Nigerian City.

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) often presents in early childhood with repeated vaso-occlusive crisis that leads to ischaemia, infarction and fibrosis which may result in a reduction in expected testicular volume (TV) at puberty. This was a cross-sectional study of 95 children with SCA aged 1-18 years compared with 95 age-matched controls. Participants responded to an interviewer-administered questionnaire, with their anthropometric measurements taken, pubertal maturity assessed by Tanner staging and testicular ultrasonography done. Changes in TV across the ages were compared graphically and regression analyses were used to determine the factors independently associated with TV. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. In the prepubertal period, the haemoglobin SS (HbSS) participants had larger median ultrasound TV (MUSTV) compared to the haemoglobin AA (HbAA) controls (p = 0.001). This trend reversed in the pubertal period. On regression analysis, the frequency of testicular pain (p = 0.04), weight (p = 0.02) and pubic hair rating (p = 0.03) of the HbSS participants were significant predictors of increased TVs in the HbSS participants, irrespective of pubertal status. The prepubertal MUSTV of the HbSS participants were higher than those of the HbAA controls, while the HbAA controls had higher MUSTV at puberty and beyond. The frequency of testicular pain episodes, pubic hair rating and weight were independent predictors of TV changes in the HbSS participants. Prevention of repeated vaso-occlusive crisis in the prepubertal period may help prevent the reduction in TV and possible hypogonadism. Lay summarySickle cell anaemia (SCA) causes repeated episodes of painful crisis and in boys, these may affect the way their testes grow. The study set out to document testicular sizes on a one-time basis in boys aged 1-18 years with SCA compared with controls of similar ages. The participants responded to structured questions assisted by the researchers and their body measurements were appropriately taken. Their level of sexual maturation was assessed according to the method by Tanner and the sizes of their testes were measured using an ultrasound machine. The research information was analysed and a statistical value less than 0.05 was taken to mean that there was a difference between the measured variables. The mid-testicular sizes of the SCA participants were noted to be higher than that of their controls during the prepubertal period while the non-SCA boys had higher sizes from puberty onwards. The frequency of testicular pain, weight and pubic hair stage of the SCA boys were important contributors to their increased testes sizes, irrespective of pubertal status. Efforts aimed at preventing painful crisis should start during early childhood to forestall future sexual challenges in adulthood.

Testicular atrophy following inguinal hernia repairs: Are we doing enough in prevention and counseling?

Testicular atrophy is a rare complication of hernia repairs which often results in litigations. While early detection and treatment of ischemic orchitis obviate this grave complication, good communication and adequate counseling are known to minimize the associated litigations. Herein, we report two cases of testicular atrophy following herniorrhaphy. Both patients noticed scrotal pain and swelling within three days after the surgery and were given antibiotics and analgesia by the attending surgeons. They subsequently developed a gradual reduction in testicular volume after two months with severe atrophy of the affected testis. The objectives of this case series are to emphasize the need for immediate evaluation of genital symptoms such as scrotal pain, swelling, and redness after inguinal hernia repairs and the need to counsel patients for possible orchitis, atrophy, and testicular loss before any groin surgery.

Testosterone levels after treatment with urofollitropin in infertile patients with idiopathic mild reduction of testicular volume.

A reduction of testicular volume (TV) represents an important clinical sign, which may hide sperm abnormalities and predispose to hypogonadism. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the serum levels of total testosterone after treatment with urofollitropin in selected patients with male infertility and idiopathic mild reduction of testicular volume. In this 1-year-long prospective design, patients with abnormal sperm parameters, mild reduction in TV (8-12 mL) and normal gonadotropin, and total testosterone (TT) serum levels were recruited in this study. Patients treated for 4 months with urofollitropin were included in group A, those treated with intracytoplasmatic sperm injection due to a female-factor infertility were included in group B. Hormone values, sperm parameters, and TV were detected at baseline (T0), after 4 (T1) and 12 months (T2) in group A and at T0 and T2 in group B. Group A (n = 80) showed increased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) at T1 and sperm morphology at T1 and T2 compared to T0 (all p < 0.05). Group B (n = 50) had lower TT and higher FSH levels at T2 compared to T0 (all p < 0.05). At T2, TT, VT, total sperm count, progressive motility, total motility, and sperm morphology were higher in group A compared to group B (all p < 0.05). Reduced TV may predispose to infertility and hypogonadism. FSH treatment may improve Sertoli and Leydig cell function and prevent the development of hypogonadism.

Early Identification of Isolated Sertoli Cell Dysfunction in Prepubertal and Transition Age: Is It Time?

The male transitional phase is of fundamental importance for future fertility. This aspect is largely neglected in clinical practice. This opinion aims to shed light on these issues. The children frequently complete the transition phase with a slight reduction of testicular volume. The system of detecting testicular volume is often inadequate. These patients evidently complete puberty in an incomplete way because they do not reach an adequate testicular volume, albeit in the presence of adequate height and regular secondary sexual characteristics.

Features of the metabolic syndrome in late adolescence are associated with impaired testicular function at 20 years of age.

Features of the metabolic syndrome in late adolescence are associated with impaired testicular function at 20 years of age.

Reestablishment of sperm quality after long-term deslorelin suppression in tomcats

The aim of the study was to determine the time after treatment with a 4.7 mg deslorelin implant until Tomcat spermatogenesis activity was restored, and seminal parameters reached pre-implant values. Tomcats (n = 6) were randomly assigned to one of two treatments. Three cats (n = 3) received a deslorelin implant (4.7 mG; Suprelorin®, Virbac, France) in the interscapular subcutaneous region whereas three (n = 3) received no implant and served as control group. Semen samples were collected by electroejaculation every 4 wk from 3 mo before treatment (pretreatment samples) until reestablishment of pre-treatment sperm quality, 32 mo post-implant insertion (PI). Each semen sample was assessed for motility, velocity, concentration, total sperm count, viability, acrosome integrity, plasma membrane integrity and sperm morphology. After semen collection, testicular volume and presence/absence of penile spines were recorded. Additionally, blood samples were taken to measure testosterone concentration. An increase in sperm concentration and total sperm count was present 1 mo PI despite of an abrupt decrease in serum testosterone concentrations after 2–4 weeks. This initial stimulatory effect was followed by a decrease in seminal parameters, reduction of testicular volume and disappearance of penile spines 2 mo PI. A single Suprelorin® 4.7 mg implant suppressed sperm production for 22–25 months. No clinically side effect was observed during the study period. All toms returned to their initial seminal quality 23–28 months after treatment. Therefore, we conclude that Suprelorin® 4.7 mg is a safe option for reversible reproduction control during long periods in tomcats.

Active immunization against GnRH in pre-pubertal domestic mammals: testicular morphometry, histopathology and endocrine responses in rabbits, guinea pigs and ram lambs

Effective tools for male contraception are important in the control of reproduction in animal populations. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of active immunization against gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) on male reproductive function assessing testicular morphological changes and serum-gonadotropin levels in pre-pubertal rabbits, guinea pigs and ram lambs. An anti-GnRH vaccine was developed by linking a GnRH-homologous molecule to a tetanus clostridial toxoid (Al(OH)3 coadjuvant). After vaccination protocols testicular morphometry, histopathological alterations and endocrine responses (FSH, LH, testosterone and cortisol serum levels) were evaluated. Testicular volume was significantly reduced in vaccinated animals with respect to the control group in rabbits, guinea pigs and ram lambs (P<0.05 to P<0.001). The anti-GnRH vaccine generated a reduction in testicular volume of 15-, 27- and 11-fold, respectively. Tubule diameters decreased in the vaccinated group with respect to the control ~2.0-, 1.2- and 3.5-fold, respectively (P<0.001). Tubule, intertubular and lumen volumes significantly decreased in vaccinated rabbits (P<0.05), guinea pigs and ram lambs (P<0.01). Vaccinated animals of the three species showed significant reductions in spermatogonial numbers (10- to 40-fold; P<0.01). Sperm was absent in all seminiferous tubules of all rabbits, and most individuals of guinea pigs (80%) and ram lambs (60%). No significant differences were observed between vaccinated and control groups regarding FSH and LH during the experiments in the three experimental species/models used. Testosterone, however, was only significantly lower (~22-fold, P<0.01) in vaccinated rabbits. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that pre-pubertal active immunization against GnRH leads to endocrine disruption and marked differences on testicular morphometry, development and activity among lagomorphs, hystricomorphs and ovine species with species-specific sensitivity regarding the anti-GnRH immune response.

Effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids on the Reproductive System of Athletes and Recreational Users: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are testosterone derivatives used by athletes and recreational users to improve athletic performance and/or enhance appearance. Anabolic androgenic steroids use may have serious and potentially irreversible adverse effects on different organs and systems, including the reproductive system. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to critically assess the impact of AAS use on the reproductive system of athletes and recreational users. An electronic literature search was conducted using the databases MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and Google Scholar. Studies were included when the following criteria were fulfilled: participants were athletes or recreational users of any age, sex, level or type of sport; AAS use of any type, dose, form or duration; AAS effects on the reproductive system were assessed as stated by medical history, clinical examination, hormone and/or semen analysis. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to assess the weighted mean difference (WMD) of serum gonadotropin (luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone) and testosterone levels compared with baseline, during the period of AAS use, as well as following AAS discontinuation. Thirty-three studies (three randomized clinical trials, 11 cohort, 18 cross-sectional, and one non-randomized parallel clinical trial) were included in the systematic review (3879 participants; 1766 AAS users and 2113 non-AAS users). The majority of the participants were men; only six studies provided data for female athletes. A meta-analysis (11 studies) was conducted of studies evaluating serum gonadotropin and testosterone levels in male subjects: (1) prior to, and during AAS use (six studies, n=65 AAS users; seven studies, n=59, evaluating gonadotropin and testosterone levels respectively); (2) during AAS use and following AAS discontinuation (four studies, n=35; six studies, n=39, respectively); as well as (3) prior to AAS use and following AAS discontinuation (three studies, n=17; five studies, n=27, respectively). During AAS intake, significant reductions in luteinizing hormone [weighted mean difference (WMD) -3.37IU/L, 95% confidence interval (CI) -5.05 to -1.70, p<0.001], follicle-stimulating hormone (WMD -1.73IU/L, 95% CI -2.67 to -0.79, p<0.001), and endogenous testosterone levels (WMD -10.75nmol/L, 95% CI -15.01 to -6.49, p<0.001) were reported. Following AAS discontinuation, serum gonadotropin levels gradually returned to baseline values within 13-24weeks, whereas serum testosterone levels remained lower as compared with baseline (WMD -9.40nmol/L, 95% CI -14.38 to -4.42, p<0.001). Serum testosterone levels remained reduced at 16weeks following discontinuation of AAS. In addition, AAS abuse resulted in structural and functional sperm changes, a reduction in testicular volume, gynecomastia, as well as clitoromegaly, menstrual irregularities, and subfertility. The majority of AAS users demonstrated hypogonadism with persistently low gonadotropin and testosterone levels, lasting for several weeks to months after AAS withdrawal. Anabolic androgenic steroid use results in profound and prolonged effects on the reproductive system of athletes and recreational users and potentially on fertility.

Adrenal inclusion in testicular: about six cases

The adrenal enzyme deficiency leads pseudopuberty in later diagnosis or in the absence of treatment. The existence of testicular enlargement in boys can be related to adrenal inclusion. We report two observations about this pathology: A boy of 10 years old with 11β hydroxylase and another patients of 6 years old with 21 hydroxylase deficiency. The reason of consultation was the development of the penis and pubic hair with a testicular enlargement. Hormonal balance was in favor of early pseudo puberty. Testicular ultrasonography objectified increased volume and testicular hypoechoic nodules. Tumor markers (βHCG, ACE) were negative. Replacement and suppressive therapy by glucocorticoids is undertaken. The evolution was marked by regression of secondary sexual characteristics, reduced testicular size, increased its echogenecity and loss of nodules. During a reevaluation ten years later, a large heterogeneous testicular nodule is found in one patient. Tumor markers were elevated. Orchidopexy is decided. Histological study was in favor of bilateral Leydig tumor. The intratesticular adrenal inclusion is rare. It is the result of a cortical defect with a delay in diagnosis. Reduction of testicular volume after glucocorticoid therapy is a good predictor of disease control. However, a long term of follow up is necessary because a possibility of tumor degeneration. Keywords Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Adrenal inclusion Intratesticular, Ultrasound, Tumor leydig, Glucocorticoids

Relationship between Testicular Volume and Conventional or Nonconventional Sperm Parameters.

Background. Reduced testicular volume (TV) (<12 cm3) is associated with lower testicular function. Several studies explored the conventional sperm parameters (concentration, motility, and morphology) and the endocrine function (gonadotropins and testosterone serum concentrations) in the patients with reduction of TV. No other parameters have been examined. Aim. This study aims at evaluating some biofunctional sperm parameters by flow cytometry in the semen of men with reduced TV compared with that of subjects with normal TV. Methods. 78 patients without primary scrotal disease were submitted to ultrasound evaluation of the testis. They were divided into two groups according to testicular volume: A Group, including 40 patients with normal testicular volume (TV > 15 cm3) and B Group, including 38 patients with reduced testicular volume (TV ≤ 12 cm3). All patients underwent serum hormone concentration, conventional and biofunctional (flow cytometry) sperm parameters evaluation. Results. With regard to biofunctional sperm parameters, all values (mitochondrial membrane potential, phosphatidylserine externalization, chromatin compactness, and DNA fragmentation) were strongly negatively correlated with testicular volume (P < 0.0001). Conclusions. This study for the first time in the literature states that the biofunctional sperm parameters worsen and with near linear correlation, with decreasing testicular volume.

Adrenal Inclusion in Testicular about Two Cases

The adrenal enzyme deficiency leads pseudopuberty in later diagnosis or in the absence of treatment. The existence of testicular enlargement in boys can be related to adrenal inclusion. We report two observations about this pathology: A boy of 10 years old with 11β hydroxylase and another patients of 6 years old with 21 hydroxylase deficiency. The reason of consultation was the development of the penis and pubic hair with a testicular enlargement. Hormonal balance was in favor of early pseudo puberty. Testicular ultrasonography objectified increased volume and testicular hypoechoic nodules. Tumor markers (βHCG, ACE) were negative. Replacement and suppressive therapy by glucocorticoids is undertaken. The evolution was marked by regression of secondary sexual characteristics, reduced testicular size, increased its echogenecity and loss of nodules. During a reevaluation ten years later, a large heterogeneous testicular nodule is found in one patient. Tumor markers were elevated. Orchidopexy is decided. Histological study was in favor of bilateral Leydig tumor. The intratesticular adrenal inclusion is rare. It is the result of a cortical defect with a delay in diagnosis. Reduction of testicular volume after glucocorticoid therapy is a good predictor of disease control. However, a long term of follow up is necessary because a possibility of tumor degeneration.

The prevalence, postnatal descent, and complications of undescended testes among children who underwent neonatal circumcision in Benin City, Nigeria

Background/Purpose The prevalence, age at postnatal descent, and age at which complications set in and, therefore, prevented by orchidopexy in undescended testes are controversial. This study sought to determine the prevalence, age at postnatal descent, and age at which complications occurred in undescended testes. Methods A prospective study was done on children who underwent neonatal circumcision at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, and Leadeks Medical Centre, both in Edo state, Nigeria, between January 2002 and December 2007. Those diagnosed with undescended testes were recruited for the study and followed up at the surgical outpatient clinic for 2 years; findings were documented on a structured proforma. Results A total of 178 neonates aged between 5 and 28 days (mean, 7.6 ± 4.2 days) and mean weight 3.9 ± 1.8 kg among 6180 children circumcised had 186 undescended testes. On follow-up, 65 (34.9%) testes mainly among preterm neonates ( P = .2450) fully descended within 7 months with no testicular descent recorded thereafter. Prevalence rates of 2.9% in neonates and 1.8% at 2 years old were recorded. Reduction in testicular volume, epididymoorchitis, and testicular torsion were recorded in 52 (28%) undescended testes between 12 and 24 months on follow-up. Conclusion Neonates with undescended testis should be observed for postnatal descent at least 7 months but may be offered orchidopexy before 1 year.

アナボリックステロイドの濫用による低ゴナドトロピン性性腺機能低下症の一例

A 32-year-old man complained about a reduction of testicular volume and loss of libido. He had been abusing androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS) for 7 years. Genital examination revealed that both testicular volumes were reduced to 13 ml. Endocrinological investigations showed luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and total testosterone (Total T) levels to be low. The level of free testosterone (Free T) was documented to be high. Later, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and calculated bioavailable testosterone (cBAT) levels were found to be low. Based on these features, we diagnosed his condition as hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism caused by AAS abuse. We first forbade him to use AAS, but the symptoms and endocrinological features were not improved. Then treatment with injections of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was started. About one month after treatment with hCG started, his symptoms and endocrinological features were not improved. It is well known that AAS abuse induces hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. It is also reported that normal hormonal function usually recovers after AAS are discontinued, but sometimes the condition is not reversible. In such cases, we should carefully observe the endocrinological features of the patient, and whether the early treatment with hCG injection leads to early recovery of testicular function. It was useful to examine cBAT in this case to understand his endocrinological condition. There are many severe side effects of abusing AAS and thus education about the severe side effects of AAS abuse is necessary.

Varicocele and Retrograde Adrenal Metabolites Flow

Background: Idiopathic varicocele is one of the causes of potentially correctable male subfertility. The mechanisms causing spermatogenesis impairment have yet to be clarified. The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of renal and adrenal metabolite reflux on testicular exocrine function in a rat experimental model. Materials and Methods: In the study, 45 male Lewis Stock adult rats, each weighing 300 g, were used. The rats were subdivided into three groups of 15 rats. In group A (control group) testicular volume and basal follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone levels were measured at the beginning of the study and after 9 months. In group B, varicocele was induced by means of rings introduced in the left renal vein in order to cause a renospermatic reflux. In group C, similarly to group B, varicocele was induced after removal of left adrenal gland. The effects of varicocele on testicular function were then analyzed 3, 6 and 9 months after surgery. After 9 months, all rats underwent testicular biopsy. Results: Both groups B and C showed a reduction in testicular volume, an increase in FSH and a decrease in testosterone levels. These levels were higher in group B. Testicular histological assessment showed important structural abnormalities in group B rats. Conclusions: These data support the hypothesis that renal and adrenal metabolites enhance varicocele-induced testicular damage. This theory is supported both by hormonal impairment and testicular histological analysis.

Response of the amphibian tadpole (Xenopus laevis) to atrazine during sexual differentiation of the testis

AbstractXenopus laevis tadpoles were exposed for 48 h during sexual differentiation to atrazine at 21 μg/L under static laboratory conditions at 21 ± 0.5°C. After this exposure period, tadpoles were fixed and the kidney‐gonad complex was microdissected. Quantitative histological analysis of the gonad revealed a 57% reduction in testicular volume among atrazine‐exposed tadpoles. In addition, primary spermatogonial cell nests that represent germ cells for the life of the organism were reduced by 70%. Nursing cells, which provide nutritive support for the developing germ cells, had declined by 74%. Testicular resorption was observed among 70% and aplasia or failure of full development of the testis was recorded in 10% of the atrazine‐exposed tadpoles. Because cell nests represent the pool of primordial germ cells for the reproductive life of the organism, the combined reduction in spermatogonial cell nests and nursing cells suggest that a pulse exposure to 21 μg/L of atrazine during sexual differentiation could significantly reduce reproduction during the reproductive life of these animals.

RESPONSE OF THE AMPHIBIAN TADPOLE (XENOPUS LAEVIS) TO ATRAZINE DURING SEXUAL DIFFERENTIATION OF THE TESTIS

Xenopus laevis tadpoles were exposed for 48 h during sexual differentiation to atrazine at 21 microg/L under static laboratory conditions at 21+/-0.5 degrees C. After this exposure period, tadpoles were fixed and the kidney-gonad complex was microdissected. Quantitative histological analysis of the gonad revealed a 57% reduction in testicular volume among atrazine-exposed tadpoles. In addition, primary spermatogonial cell nests that represent germ cells for the life of the organism were reduced by 70%. Nursing cells, which provide nutritive support for the developing germ cells, had declined by 74%. Testicular resorption was observed among 70% and aplasia or failure of full development of the testis was recorded in 10% of the atrazine-exposed tadpoles. Because cell nests represent the pool of primordial germ cells for the reproductive life of the organism, the combined reduction in spermatogonial cell nests and nursing cells suggest that a pulse exposure to 21 microg/L of atrazine during sexual differentiation could significantly reduce reproduction during the reproductive life of these animals.

36 MORPHOLOGY AND FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITHUNILATERNAL VARICOELE(Va)

Patients with unilateral varicocele, grade 3, (n=11), were analyzed to study if there are morphological or fuctional alterations in the testes. They were classified according to genital stage given GnRH (100 mcg) and hCG (50 U/kg/dose. 5 days) and underwent bilateral testicular biopsy. Testicular volume (TV) was measured and differences > 2 cm3 were considered significant Basal testoterone (T) and peak LH, FSH and T were similar to the control group. There was no difference in basal LH and FSH between groups G1, G2, G3+4. Tubular diameter (TD) and area (TA) are showed in the table. In the five cases with decreased testicular volume, there was a higher TD on the Va side. Six patients didn't have a reduction in testicular volume and only two had a difference in TD between both sides. There was a tendency for a decrease in testicular volume and an increase in TD advancing pubertal development.