Disorders of sex development

Modified versus Classical Tubularised Incised Plate Urethroplasty in Hypospadias: A Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

Hypospadias is a wide-world congenital malformation that accounts for 1 of 300 live male births. Many procedures were considered for its management. As the tubularised incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty, the most prevalent technique, caused many complications, several modifications were applied to the original operation to improve the outcomes and alleviate complications. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of the ordinary TIP urethroplasty with the technique modified without dissection of the glans penis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 82 patients with a mean age of 18.8 (±14.8) months, were randomly assigned to undergo TIP with either complete glans wings mobilisation (Group A, n = 42 patients) or without glans dissection (Group B, n = 40 patients). To evaluate the effect of modified TIP urethroplasty without glanular dissection for treatment of distal hypospadias in contrast to classical TIP repair.

RESULTS

Both techniques showed similar outcomes regarding functional repair, with good to excellent results between 88% and 90% after 6 months of follow-up. Most confronted post-operative complications were wound infection, oedema, urethrocutaneous fistulas and meatal stenosis. Less frequently haematoma, post-operative bleeding and glans dehiscence were encountered. The differences in complication rates between the two studied groups were statistically insignificant except for oedema (P = 0.04), and need for urethral dilatation (P = 0.002) that were more prevalent among patients who were treated with classic TIP repair with complete glans wings mobilisation.

CONCLUSION

From our point of view, it seems that TIP without glanular dissection technique does not outweigh TIP with complete glans wings mobilisation regarding functional outcomes and post-operative complications.

Issues of identity, perceptions and isolation: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of women's experience of Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome

The objective of this study was to explore the personal experience of women with MRKH, a rare condition characterised by congenital abnormalities of the genital tract. There are very few qualitative studies into the lived experiences of women with MRKH. Interviews were conducted with 13 women with MRKH and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four superordinate themes are discovered: maintaining a viable female identity; acceptance and coping; normality, secrecy and shame and the isolating impact of a lack of knowledge amongst the medical profession. This study also suggests that societal ideals of a 'normal woman' are influencing how MRKH impacts on the self-experienced psychological health. It is suggested that the psychological wellbeing of women with MRKH could be improved with continued multidisciplinary support beyond the initial diagnosis and alongside any vaginal correction.

Differences of sex development in the newborn: from clinical scenario to molecular diagnosis

Differences/disorders of sex development (DSD) are defined as a group of congenital conditions in which the development of chromosomal, gonadal or anatomical sex is atypical. The incidence of DSD is 1:4500 births. The current classification divides DSDs into 3 categories according to chromosomal sex: 46,XX DSD, 46,XY DSD and sex chromosome DSD. DSD phenotypes can be concordant with the genotype (apparently normal external genitalia associated with gonadal dysgenesis), or can range from simply hypospadias to completely masculinised or feminised genitalia with a discordant karyotype. Numerous genes implicated in genital development have been reported. The search of genetic variants represents a central element of the extended investigation, as an improved knowledge of the genetic aetiology helps the immediate and long-term management of children with DSDs, in term of sex of rearing, hormone therapy, surgery, fertility and cancer risk. This review aims to assess the current role of molecular diagnosis in DSD management.

A Rare Presentation of Disorder of Sex Development

Disorder of sex development (DSD) is the term ascribed to a wide group of disorders presenting with congenital discord between chromosomal sex and phenotypic manifestation. Its incidence is 1 in 4500 births. 46 XX testicular DSD is a rare disorder characterized by the discordance between female karyotype and male phenotype. Its incidence is 1:20,000 to 25,000 male infants. It is further classified into SRY positive and SRY negative individuals, depending on the presence or absence of sex-determining region Y gene (SRY) on the X chromosome as a result of translocation. We are hereby reporting a rare case of de la Chapelle syndrome (SRY negative). A 30-year-old phenotypical male presented to us with complaints of primary infertility. He had had hypospadias during his childhood and underwent corrective surgery at the age of 18 years. For the previous 1.5 years, he had been complaining of decreased libido, difficulty in micturition, and presence of watery ejaculate. On examination, he had bilateral palpable testis with the testicular volume of 7 mL each, curved micropenis with chordee, and eccentric meatus with fistula. Semen analysis revealed azoospermia and hormonal profile was consistent with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. His karyotyping turned out to be 46 XX chromosome without the SRY gene on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array. He was medically treated with testosterone and underwent surgical correction of chordee.  The SRY negative testicular 46 XX disorder is a rare expression and can be diagnosed at the time of birth with the presence of severe hypospadias, cryptorchidism, or ambiguous genitalia. All new-borns with these findings should undergo evaluation for the disorder of sexual development. Such individuals can never father a child and genetic counseling should be offered. Infertility is the main concern for such individuals which can be addressed by in vitro fertilization (IVF) with a sperm donor or adoption.

46, XX Ovotesticular disorder of sex development (true hermaphroditism) with seminoma: A case report

RATIONALE

Ovotesticular disorder of sex development (DSD), previously known as true hermaphroditism, is a disorder in which individuals have both testicular and ovarian tissues. Instances of tumors arising in the gonads of individuals with 46,XX ovotesticular DSD are uncommon.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a case of a 36-year-old phenotypical male with a chief complaint of an abdominal mass for 3 months. He reported normal erections and regular menses. Computerized tomography showed a large tumor measuring 15 × 10 cm in size, a uterus, and a cystic ovary.

DIAGNOSIS

46, XX ovotesticular DSD with seminoma.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient was treated with neochemotherapy (etoposide and cisplatin), surgery, chemotherapy, and testosterone replacement.

OUTCOMES

At the 13-month follow-up, the patient reported satisfactory erections, and no evidence of disease was found.

CONCLUSION

Cases of 46,XX ovotesticular DSD with seminoma are uncommon. Our case reveals the importance of surgery combined with neochemotherapy, chemotherapy, and testosterone replacement in these patients to improve the prognosis.

Diagnostic and therapeutic approach in newborns with ambiguous genitale with disorder of sex development: consensus report of Turkish Neonatal and Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Societies

Disorders of sex development are defined as conditions in which the chromosomal, gonadal, and anatomic sex is discordant. Patients usually present with atypical appearing genitalia. In the assessment of neonates with disorders of sex development, first, it is important to determine whether this situation requires prompt evaluation, and then the karyotype, hormone levels, and underlying etiology should be determined as soon as possible. All these procedures should be performed in the guidance of a multidisciplinary team in reference centers. As the physical examination of the infant is extremely important, the physcian should suspect and then perform a detailed history and physical examinationi and lastly plan the required laboratory and imaging procedures for the definite diagnosis. It is important not to be hurried in the choice of sex. The aim of this article, which includes the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in infants with ambiguous genitalia, was to provide a common practice for all pediatricians.

Rapid Molecular Genetic Diagnosis with Next-Generation Sequencing in 46,XY Disorders of Sex Development Cases: Efficiency and Cost Assessment

BACKGROUND/AIM

The aim of this study was to use targeted next-generation sequencing (TNGS) including all known genes associated with 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD) for a fast molecular genetic diagnosis.

METHODS

Twenty pediatric patients were recruited, and 56 genes related to 46,XY DSD were sequenced using TNGS. The time elapsed between initial appointment and final diagnosis as well as the mean expenditure was determined.

RESULTS

A total of 9 (45%) mutations in 4 different genes were identified. Mutations in the HSD17B3 gene were observed in 6 (30%) patients. A heterozygous mutation in WT1 gene and a hemizygous mutation in SRY gene were detected in patients with gonadal dysgenesis. One patient had a homozygous mutation in LHCGR gene. Prior to the molecular diagnosis, the mean number of clinical visits, time elapsed until diagnosis, and expenditure were 27.4 ± 14.6 visits, 5.9 ± 4.1 years per patient, and USD 2,142 ± 1,038, respectively. With TNGS, time elapsed until diagnosis was significantly reduced (3 days), and expenditure per patient was only one third of the conventional approach (USD 761).

CONCLUSIONS

TNGS is an efficient, rapid, and cost-effective technique for mutation detection in 46,XY DSD.

Public challenge and endorsement of sex category ambiguity in online debate: 'The sooner people stop thinking that gender is a matter of choice the better'

Despite academic feminist debate over several decades, the binary nature of sex as a (perhaps the) primary social classification is often taken for granted, as is the assumption that individuals can be unproblematically assigned a biological sex at birth. This article presents analysis of online debate on the BBC news website in November 2013, comprising 864 readers' responses to an article entitled 'Germany allows 'indeterminate' gender at birth'. It explores how discourse reflecting Western essentialist beliefs about people having one sex or 'the other' is maintained in debates conducted in this online public space. Comments were coded thematically and are presented under five sub-headings: overall evaluation of the German law; discussing and disputing statistics and 'facts'; binary categorisations; religion and politics; and 'conversations' and threads. Although for many the mapping of binary sex onto gender was unquestionable, this view was strongly disputed by commentators who questioned the meanings of 'natural' and 'normal', raised the possibility of removing societal binary male-female distinctions or saw maleness-femaleness as a continuum. While recognising that online commentators are anonymous and can control their self-presentation, this animated discussion suggests that social classifications as male or female, even if questioned, remain fundamental in public debate in the early 21^st century.

[Clinical evaluation and management of neonates with disorder of sexual development]

Disorder of sexual development or disorder of sex differentiation (DSD) refers to the inconsistency between karyotype and gonad phenotype and/or gonad anatomy in neonates and is manifested as the difficulty in identifying neonates' sex. According to the karyotype, DSD is classified as 46,XY DSD, 46,XX DSD, and sex chromosome DSD. A combination of detailed medical history, physical examination, and laboratory and imaging examinations is required for the diagnosis and comprehensive assessment of neonatal DSD and the determination of potential causes in clinical practice. Sex identification can only be made after all diagnostic evaluations have been completed. Sex identification of DSD neonates is influenced by various medical and social factors, including genotype (karyotype), sex hormones (levels of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and adrenal steroids), sex phenotype (appearance of internal and external genitals), reproduction (fertility potential), feelings of their parents, and even social acceptance and religious customs. A team with multidisciplinary cooperation is required, and patients must be involved in the whole process of sex identification. The major task of neonatal physicians for DSD is to assess the condition of neonates and provide management.

The Lived Experience of MRKH: Sharing Health Information with Peers

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To examine the process and emotional effect of disclosing a personal diagnosis of Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome (MRKH) to peers during adolescence and young adulthood.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Qualitative study using semistructured telephone interviews.

PARTICIPANTS

Nine women diagnosed with MRKH, aged 21-31 years, recruited via patient support groups.

INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Motivators and barriers to self-disclosure of a diagnosis of MRKH to peers and partners.

RESULTS

Motivators to tell peers about a diagnosis included significant trust in the relationship (whether platonic or romantic), needing to unload the experienced burden of diagnosis, and a sense of responsibility to be forthcoming if a long-term romantic future was desired. The most common barrier to telling others was fear of rejection or being labeled a "freak." Although most participants did not receive guidance from a health care provider regarding approaches to sharing diagnostic information with others, almost all participants reported wishing they had received such counseling.

CONCLUSION

A diagnosis of MRKH elicits recurring anxieties about disclosure and the effect on relationships that are inadequately addressed by health care providers. Guidance and support on disclosure to friends and romantic partners should be provided whenever possible.

Profile of patients with genitourinary anomalies treated in a clinical genetics service in the Brazilian unified health system

Objective:

To describe the profile of patients with genitourinary abnormalities treated at a tertiary hospital genetics service.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study of 1068 medical records of patients treated between April/2008 and August/2014. A total of 115 cases suggestive of genitourinary anomalies were selected, regardless of age. A standardized clinical protocol was used, as well as karyotype, hormone levels and genitourinary ultrasound for basic evaluation. Laparoscopy, gonadal biopsy and molecular studies were performed in specific cases. Patients with genitourinary malformations were classified as genitourinary anomalies (GUA), whereas the others, as Disorders of Sex Differentiation (DSD). Chi-square, Fisher and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used for statistical analysis and comparison between groups.

Results:

80 subjects met the inclusion criteria, 91% with DSD and 9% with isolated/syndromic GUA. The age was younger in the GUA group (p<0.02), but these groups did not differ regarding external and internal genitalia, as well as karyotype. Karyotype 46,XY was verified in 55% and chromosomal aberrations in 17.5% of cases. Ambiguous genitalia occurred in 45%, predominantly in 46,XX patients (p<0.006). Disorders of Gonadal Differentiation accounted for 25% and congenital adrenal hyperplasia, for 17.5% of the sample. Consanguinity occurred in 16%, recurrence in 12%, lack of birth certificate in 20% and interrupted follow-up in 31% of cases.

Conclusions:

Patients with DSD predominated. Ambiguous genitalia and abnormal sexual differentiation were more frequent among infants and prepubertal individuals. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia was the most prevalent nosology. Younger patients were more common in the GUA group. Abandonment and lower frequency of birth certificate occurred in patients with ambiguous or malformed genitalia. These characteristics corroborate the literature and show the biopsychosocial impact of genitourinary anomalies.

[Profile of patients with genitourinary anomalies treated in a clinical genetics service in the Brazilian unified health system]

OBJECTIVE

To describe the profile of patients with genitourinary abnormalities treated at a tertiary hospital genetics service.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of 1,068 medical records of patients treated between April/2008 and August/2014. A total of 115 cases suggestive of genitourinary anomalies were selected, regardless of age. A standardized clinical protocol was used, as well as karyotype, hormone levels and genitourinary ultrasound for basic evaluation. Laparoscopy, gonadal biopsy and molecular studies were performed in specific cases. Patients with genitourinary malformations were classified as genitourinary anomalies (GUA), whereas the others, as sex differentiation disorders (SDD). Chi-square, Fisher and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for statistical analysis and comparison between groups.

RESULTS

80 subjects met the inclusion criteria, 91% with SDD and 9% with isolated/ syndromic GUA. The age was younger in the GUA group (p<0.02), but these groups did not differ regarding external and internal genitalia, as well as karyotype. Karyotype 46,XY was verified in 55% and chromosomal aberrations in 17.5% of cases. Ambiguous genitalia occurred in 45%, predominantly in 46,XX patients (p<0.006). Gonadal differentiation disorders accounted for 25% and congenital adrenal hyperplasia, for 17.5% of the sample. Consanguinity occurred in 16%, recurrence in 12%, lack of birth certificate in 20% and interrupted follow-up in 31% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with SDD predominated. Ambiguous genitalia and abnormal sexual differentiation were more frequent among infants and prepubertal individuals. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia was the most prevalent nosology. Younger patients were more common in the GUA group. Abandonment and lower frequency of birth certificate occurred in patients with ambiguous or malformed genitalia. These characteristics corroborate the literature and show the biopsychosocial impact of genitourinary anomalies.

Evaluation and management of disorders of sex development: multidisciplinary approach to a complex diagnosis

Various disorders of sex development (DSD) result in abnormal development of genitalia, which may be recognized at prenatal ultrasonography, immediately after birth, or later in life. Current methods for diagnosing DSD include a thorough physical examination, laboratory tests to determine hormone levels and identify chromosomal abnormalities, and radiologic imaging of the genitourinary tract and adjacent organs. Because of the complex nature of DSD, the participation of a multidisciplinary team is required to address the patient's medical needs as well as any psychosocial issues that the patient or the family may encounter after the diagnosis. The first step in the management of DSD is sex assignment, which is based on factors such as the genotype; the presence, location, and appearance of reproductive organs; the potential for fertility; and the cultural background and beliefs of the patient's family. The primary goal of sex assignment is to achieve the greatest possible consistency between the patient's assigned sex and his or her gender identity. Once the sex is assigned, the next step in management might be surgery, hormone therapy, or no intervention at all. Patients with ovotesticular DSD and gonadal dysgenesis may require a gonadectomy, followed by reconstructive surgery. Some patients may need hormone replacement therapy during puberty. An understanding of the immediacy of families' need for sex assignment and clinicians' need for reliable diagnostic imaging results will help radiologists participate effectively in the prenatal and postnatal assessment of patients with DSD.

Disorders of sex development: new genes, new concepts

Formerly known as 'intersex' conditions, disorders of sex development (DSDs) are congenital conditions in which chromosomal, gonadal or anatomical sex is atypical. A complete revision of the nomenclature and classification of DSDs has been undertaken, which emphasizes the genetic aetiology of these disorders and discards pejorative terms. Uptake of the new terminology is widespread. DSDs affecting gonadal development are perhaps the least well understood. Unravelling the molecular mechanisms underlying gonadal development has revealed new causes of DSDs, although a specific molecular diagnosis is made in only ∼20% of patients. Conversely, identification of the molecular causes of DSDs has provided insight into the mechanisms of gonadal development. Studies of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea mutagenesis in the mouse, and multigene diagnostic screening and genome-wide approaches, such as array-comparative genomic hybridization and next-generation sequencing, in patients with DSDs are accelerating the discovery of genes involved in gonadal development and DSDs. Furthermore, long-range gene regulatory mutations and multiple gene mutations are emerging as new causes of DSDs. Patients with DSDs, their parents and medical staff are confronted with challenging decisions regarding gender assignment, genital surgery and lifelong care. These advances are refining prognostic prediction and systematically improving the diagnosis and long-term management of children with DSDs.