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Maher JY, Gomez-Lobo V, Merke DP. The management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2023; 24:71-83. [PMID: 36399318 PMCID: PMC9884653 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09770-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders of steroidogenesis of the adrenal cortex, most commonly due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency caused by mutations in the CYP21A2 gene. Although women with CAH have decreased fecundity, they are able to conceive; thus, if pregnancy is not desired, contraception options should be offered. If fertility is desired, women with classic CAH should first optimize glucocorticoid treatment, followed by ovulation induction medications and gonadotropins if needed. Due to the possible pregnancy complications and implications on the offspring, preconception genetic testing and counseling with a high-risk obstetrics specialist is recommended. For couples trying to avoid having a child with CAH, care with a reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist to utilize in vitro fertilization can be offered, with or without preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders. Prenatal screening and diagnosis options during pregnancy include maternal serum cell free-DNA for sex of the baby, and chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis for diagnosis of CAH. Pregnant women with classic CAH need glucocorticoids to be adjusted during the pregnancy, at the time of delivery, and postpartum, and should be monitored for adrenal crisis. Maternal and fetal risks may include chorioamnionitis, maternal hypertension, gestational diabetes, cesarean section, and small for gestational age infants. This review on CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency highlights reproductive health including genetic transmission, contraception options, glucocorticoid management, fertility treatments, as well as testing, antenatal monitoring, and management during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Yano Maher
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Staff Clinician, 10 Central Drive, Room 8N248, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Veronica Gomez-Lobo
- Director of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 10 Central Drive, Room 8N248, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Deborah P Merke
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center and Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 10 Central Drive, Room 1-2740, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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2
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Characteristics of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Diagnosed in Adulthood: A Literature Review and Case Series. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020653. [PMID: 36675589 PMCID: PMC9866811 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders characterized by impaired cortisol synthesis. CAH, depending on its clinical form, is usually diagnosed in the neonatal period, later in childhood, in adolescence, or in young adults. Herein, we report a case series of eight individuals in whom CAH was diagnosed between the ages of 18 and 81 years. METHODS We report on clinical presentations, hormonal tests, adrenal/gonadal imaging, and genetic findings. The clinical data of eight people with CAH, including four women (46, XX) and four men (46, XY), were reviewed. A genetic analysis of the cytochrome P450 family 21 subfamily A member 2 (CYP21A2) gene was performed in six patients. A comprehensive literature review was also conducted. CASE SERIES Partial cortisol deficiency was found in all patients. The most frequent genotype was the homozygotic I173N mutation in CYP21A2. Adrenal masses were detected in seven patients, except for the youngest. Most of the patients were of short stature. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism was detected in two males, and three females presented with primary amenorrhea. Hirsutism was noticeable in three females. All of the patients developed insulin resistance, and half of them were obese. CONCLUSIONS The clinical presentations of different forms of CAH overlapped. Genotype-phenotype correlations were strong but not absolute. The management of CAH should be individualized and based on clinical and laboratory findings. Furthermore, the assessment of the cortisol response to adrenocorticotrophic hormone stimulation should be mandatory in all adults with CAH. Additionally, the regular long-term screening of cardiometabolic status is required in the CAH population.
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Claahsen - van der Grinten HL, Speiser PW, Ahmed SF, Arlt W, Auchus RJ, Falhammar H, Flück CE, Guasti L, Huebner A, Kortmann BBM, Krone N, Merke DP, Miller WL, Nordenström A, Reisch N, Sandberg DE, Stikkelbroeck NMML, Touraine P, Utari A, Wudy SA, White PC. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia-Current Insights in Pathophysiology, Diagnostics, and Management. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:91-159. [PMID: 33961029 PMCID: PMC8755999 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 88.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders affecting cortisol biosynthesis. Reduced activity of an enzyme required for cortisol production leads to chronic overstimulation of the adrenal cortex and accumulation of precursors proximal to the blocked enzymatic step. The most common form of CAH is caused by steroid 21-hydroxylase deficiency due to mutations in CYP21A2. Since the last publication summarizing CAH in Endocrine Reviews in 2000, there have been numerous new developments. These include more detailed understanding of steroidogenic pathways, refinements in neonatal screening, improved diagnostic measurements utilizing chromatography and mass spectrometry coupled with steroid profiling, and improved genotyping methods. Clinical trials of alternative medications and modes of delivery have been recently completed or are under way. Genetic and cell-based treatments are being explored. A large body of data concerning long-term outcomes in patients affected by CAH, including psychosexual well-being, has been enhanced by the establishment of disease registries. This review provides the reader with current insights in CAH with special attention to these new developments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phyllis W Speiser
- Cohen Children’s Medical Center of NY, Feinstein Institute, Northwell Health, Zucker School of Medicine, New Hyde Park, NY 11040, USA
| | - S Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Intitutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christa E Flück
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart’s and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Angela Huebner
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Paediatrics, Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Barbara B M Kortmann
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Amalia Childrens Hospital, Department of Pediatric Urology, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nils Krone
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Deborah P Merke
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Walter L Miller
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Reproductive Sciences, and Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Anna Nordenström
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicole Reisch
- Medizinische Klinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - David E Sandberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Susan B. Meister Child Health Evaluation and Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | - Philippe Touraine
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases of Growth and Development, Center for Rare Gynecological Diseases, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Sorbonne University Medicine, Paris, France
| | - Agustini Utari
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Diponegoro University, Semarang, Indonesia
| | - Stefan A Wudy
- Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Laboratory of Translational Hormone Analytics, Division of Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Perrin C White
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX 75390, USA
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Markantes GK, Stamou MI, Barouti K, Georgakopoulou D, Vasileiou V, Georgopoulos NA. A manless adultery: the story of Bassa as related in a Marcus Valerius Martialis' epigram. Hormones (Athens) 2021; 20:825-829. [PMID: 34297347 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-021-00310-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
During the Golden Age of the Roman Empire, Rome was transformed into a magnificent city where architecture, the arts, and commerce flourished. An inconceivable amount of wealth was accumulated by a handful of noble families, while the masses starved. In such a context, moral values inevitably decline, while sexual mores are liberalized and ever more veer towards salacity. This reality was elegantly illustrated in short, often sarcastic poems known as epigrams. Herein, we present a case of a woman with enigmatic appearance of the external genitalia, exhibiting unrestrained homosexual activity, as described in an epigram by Marcus Valerius Martialis (a contemporary poet who lived in the 1st century AD). Based on the information provided in the ancient text, we formulate a differential diagnosis and deduce that this woman was, in fact, a case of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). To our knowledge, this is the earliest literary description worldwide of a case of CAH as a cause of homosexuality and unquenchable lust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios K Markantes
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras School of Health Sciences, Patras, Greece
| | - Maria I Stamou
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Mount Auburn Hospital, Harvard Medical School Teaching Hospital, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Konstantina Barouti
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras School of Health Sciences, Patras, Greece
| | - Danai Georgakopoulou
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras School of Health Sciences, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Vasileiou
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Evangelismos General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Neoklis A Georgopoulos
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras School of Health Sciences, Patras, Greece.
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Badeghiesh A, Ismail S, Baghlaf H, Suarthana E, Dahan MH. Pregnancy, delivery and neonatal outcomes among women with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: a study of a large US database. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:1093-1099. [PMID: 33008769 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the association between congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and pregnancy, delivery and neonatal outcomes, using a population database cohort. DESIGN Retrospective study using the Health Care Cost and Utilization Project-Nationwide Inpatient Sample database from 2004-2014. ICD-9 code 255.2 was used to extract the cases of CAH. Pregnancies complicated with CAH were compared with the other pregnancies. All confounding variables were adjusted using multivariate logistic regression, based on any significant differences between the two groups. RESULTS A total of 9,096,788 deliveries occurred during the study period. Two hundred and ninety-nine pregnant women had CAH. Chorioamnionitis was higher in CAH compared with controls after controlling for risk factors (adjusted OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.17 to 6.06). The rates of caesarean section and maternal infection were also higher in CAH than controls (adjusted OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.44 to 3.07 and adjusted OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.22 to 5.63, respectively). Risk of gestational diabetes and pregnancy-induced hypertension rates were not significantly different in CAH (adjusted OR 1.53, 95% CI 0.91 to 2.58 and adjusted OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.56, respectively). At birth, 8% and 2.2% of the neonates were found to be small for gestational age in the CAH and the control groups, respectively (adjusted OR 3.37, 95% CI 1.86 to 6.11). Congenital anomalies were encountered in 2.7% and 0.4% in the CAH and control groups, respectively (adjusted OR 5.24, 95% CI 2.31 to 11.90). CONCLUSIONS Women with CAH were at risk of complications and fetal anomalies. Expected increases in rates of hypertension and gestational diabetes were not encountered. These patients will benefit from surveillance to decrease morbidity.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Female
- Humans
- Infant, Newborn
- Pregnancy
- Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital/complications
- Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital/epidemiology
- Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital/therapy
- Case-Control Studies
- Cohort Studies
- Congenital Abnormalities/epidemiology
- Congenital Abnormalities/etiology
- Databases, Factual
- Delivery, Obstetric/methods
- Delivery, Obstetric/statistics & numerical data
- Infant, Newborn, Diseases/epidemiology
- Infant, Newborn, Diseases/etiology
- Pregnancy Complications/epidemiology
- Pregnancy Complications/therapy
- Pregnancy Outcome/epidemiology
- Prenatal Care/statistics & numerical data
- Retrospective Studies
- United States/epidemiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Badeghiesh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, McGill University, Montréal Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada; McGill University Health Center, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Room D05.2519, Montreal QC H4A 3J1.
| | - Sara Ismail
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal Quebec H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Haitham Baghlaf
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, University of Toronto, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Eva Suarthana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, McGill University, Montréal Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Michael H Dahan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, McGill University, Montréal Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada; MUHC Reproductive Centre, McGill University, Montréal Quebec H2L 4S8, Canada
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6
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Engberg H, Möller A, Hagenfeldt K, Nordenskjöld A, Frisén L. Identity, Sexuality, and Parenthood in Women with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2020; 33:470-476. [PMID: 32473322 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To explore how women with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) describe their experiences of gender role behavior, psychosexual development, and intimate relationships. CAH results in increased androgen exposure in affected females, and is the most common reason for unclear sex at birth. Women with CAH have been studied to find answers to the role of androgens in psychosexual development. Nevertheless, factors that may account for the variability of outcomes in women with CAH are unclear. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS This was a qualitative study with 13 Swedish women (aged ≥18 years) with CAH. Semi-structured interviews were analyzed using inductive content analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Direct quotes of patients' experiences derived from interview transcripts were sorted in categories, subcategories, and according to latent theme. RESULTS The main categories were "forming identity" and "establishing relationships." Forming identity encompasses that of a girl, a tomboy, and/or a woman. Establishing relationships focuses on intimate relationships, pregnancy, and parenthood. A latent theme was interpreted as "shifting perspectives," with CAH being the main focus of some participants' lives but a side issue for others. CONCLUSION These women's experiences are varied and describe shifting perspectives on how much CAH affects their lives. Health care providers can play an important role in helping women with CAH to separate what is caused by the condition and what is not. The long-term goal is to help girls and women to feel in control of their condition across their whole life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hedvig Engberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Research Centre, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Anders Möller
- Ersta Sköndal University College, Campus Bräcke, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Hagenfeldt
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Agneta Nordenskjöld
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatric Surgery Unit and Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Pediatric Surgery, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise Frisén
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Research Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
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Zainuddin AA, Grover SR, Abdul Ghani NA, Wu LL, Rasat R, Abdul Manaf MR, Shamsuddin K, Abdullah Mahdy Z. Health-related quality of life of female patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia in Malaysia. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2020; 18:258. [PMID: 32738912 PMCID: PMC7395333 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-020-01515-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study investigates the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of female patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in Malaysia. The objectives were to attain socio-demographic and medical data on these Malaysian females with CAH and establish their health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in comparison to age matched diabetic controls. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted over 6 months in the two main tertiary centres for CAH patients in Malaysia. Participants including 59 female-raised CAH patients (mean age ± SD = 16.3 ± 4.2 years, range 10–28 years) compared to 57 age-matched female diabetic patients (mean age ± SD = 16.5 ± 3.4 years, range 10–26 years). Socio-demographic and medical profiles was obtained through semi-structured interviews. HRQOL of participants were evaluated utilising validated, Malay translated questionnaires which were age appropriate: Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL v4.0) scales for Child (8–12) and Adolescent (13–18) and Medical Outcome Survey 36-item Short Form version. These were then compared to the diabetic controls. Results The CAH participants consisted of children (ages 10–12 years, n = 12), adolescents (ages 13–17 years, n = 29) and adults (≥ 18 years, n = 18). The majority were Malays (64.4%) and had salt-wasting CAH (67.8%). There were no significant differences between the total mean score of the HRQOL of the combined children and adolescents CAH group (total mean score ± SD = 81.6 ± 17.9, 95% CI = 75.6–87.6) when compared to age-matched diabetic patients (total mean score ± SD = 80.8 ± 11.0, 95% CI = 77.0–84.5, P = 0.81, effect size = 0.05); no significant difference between the adult CAH and diabetic controls in the physical [median score (IQR) CAH vs diabetics; 49.3 (11.4) vs. 50.2 (6.1), P = 0.60, effect size = 0.09] and the mental composite scores [median score (IQR) CAH vs. diabetics; 47.8 (14.1) vs. 50.0 (10.8), P = 0.93, effect size = 0.01]. Conclusions The HRQOL of the Malaysian CAH cohort were comparable to the diabetic controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ani Amelia Zainuddin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Sonia Regina Grover
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nur Azurah Abdul Ghani
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Loo Ling Wu
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rahmah Rasat
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Rizal Abdul Manaf
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Khadijah Shamsuddin
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zaleha Abdullah Mahdy
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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8
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Daae E, Feragen KB, Waehre A, Nermoen I, Falhammar H. Sexual Orientation in Individuals With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A Systematic Review. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:38. [PMID: 32231525 PMCID: PMC7082355 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a genetic condition of the steroidogenic enzymes in the adrenal cortex normally leading to variable degrees of cortisol and aldosterone deficiency as well as androgen excess. Exposure to androgens prenatally might lead to ambiguous genitalia. The fetal brain develops in traditional male direction through a direct action of androgens on the developing nerve cells, or in the traditional female direction in the absence of androgens. This may indicate that sexual development, including sexual orientation, are programmed into our brain structures prenatally. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of the literature, investigating sexual orientation in individuals with CAH. The study also aimed at identifying which measures are used to define sexual orientation across studies. The review is based on articles identified through a comprehensive search of the OVIDMedline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases published up to May 2019. All peer-reviewed articles investigating sexual orientation in people with CAH were included. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods were considered, as well as self-, parent-, and third-party reports, and no age or language restrictions were enforced on publications. The present review included 30 studies investigating sexual orientation in patients with CAH assigned female at birth (46, XX) (n = 927) or assigned male at birth (46, XY and 46, XX) (n = 274). Results indicate that assigned females at birth (46, XX) with CAH had a greater likelihood to not have an exclusively heterosexual orientation than females from the general population, whereas no assigned males at birth (46, XY or 46, XX) with CAH identified themselves as non-heterosexual. There was a wide diversity in measures used and a preference for unvalidated and self-constructed interviews. Hence, the results need to be interpreted with caution. Methodological weaknesses might have led to non-heterosexual orientation being overestimated or underestimated. The methodological challenges identified by this review should be further investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ingrid Nermoen
- Oslo University, Oslo, Norway
- Akershus University Hospital, Lillestrøm, Norway
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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9
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Bin-Abbas B, Al-Humaida D, Al-Sagheir A, Qasem E, Almohanna M, Alzahrani AS. Divergent gender identity in three siblings with 46XX karyotype and severely virilizing congenital adrenal hyperplasia caused by a novel CYP11B1 mutation. Endocr Pract 2019; 20:e191-7. [PMID: 25100385 DOI: 10.4158/ep14179.cr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe conflicting gender identities in three karyotypically female siblings with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) caused by a novel mutation in the CYP11B1 gene, who were assigned as males at birth and followed up to adulthood. METHODS We present 3 siblings (16, 14 and 10 years old) who were born with severe genital virilization and raised as males. Clinical examination showed Prader IV to V external genitalia with a stretched penile length of 7 to 11 cm. Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test showed a stimulated 11 deoxycortisol (11DOC) level of 12,300-18,700 μg/L (normal 0-5 μg/L). Their karyotypes were 46 XX, and they had normal-sized uterus and ovaries on pelvic ultrasound. DNA was isolated from peripheral leukocytes, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and direct sequencing revealed a novel CYP11B1 mutation. This mutation leads to a c.53_54 T insertion (c.53_54insT) with frameshift and truncation at c.115 (codon 39) of CYP11B1. RESULTS Psychological evaluation of the oldest sibling suggested a female gender identity, and she declared herself as female, and female sex was re-assigned after 1 year of psychosocial adjustment. Psychological assessment for the 2 younger siblings and a fourth 46XY sibling with the same condition revealed male gender identities, and they continued their lives as males without significant difficulties. CONCLUSION Divergent gender identity was observed in three severely masculinized 46XX siblings with CAH who carried the same CYP11B1 mutation and had comparable postnatal and probably prenatal androgen exposure and environmental circumstances. These cases suggest that the basis of gender identity is more complex than chromosomal, biochemical, and genetic constitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bassam Bin-Abbas
- Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Doha Al-Humaida
- Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf Al-Sagheir
- Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ebtesam Qasem
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mai Almohanna
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali S Alzahrani
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Fisher AD, Ristori J, Fanni E, Castellini G, Forti G, Maggi M. Gender identity, gender assignment and reassignment in individuals with disorders of sex development: a major of dilemma. J Endocrinol Invest 2016; 39:1207-1224. [PMID: 27287420 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-016-0482-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Disorders of Sex Development (DSD) are a wide range of congenital conditions characterized by an incongruence of components involved in sexual differentiation, including gender psychosexual development. The management of such disorders is complex, and one of the most crucial decision is represented by gender assignment. In fact, the primary goal in DSD is to have a gender assignment consistent with the underlying gender identity in order to prevent the distress related to a forthcoming Gender Dysphoria. Historically, gender assignment was based essentially on surgical outcomes, assuming the neutrality of gender identity at birth. This policy has been challenged in the past decade refocusing on the importance of prenatal and postnatal hormonal and genetic influences on psychosexual development. AIMS (1) to update the main psychological and medical issues that surround DSD, in particular regarding gender identity and gender assignment; (2) to report specific clinical recommendations according to the different diagnosis. METHODS A systematic search of published evidence was performed using Medline (from 1972 to March 2016). Review of the relevant literature and recommendations was based on authors' expertise. RESULTS A review of gender identity and assignment in DSD is provided as well as clinical recommendations for the management of individuals with DSD. CONCLUSIONS Given the complexity of this management, DSD individuals and their families need to be supported by a specialized multidisciplinary team, which has been universally recognized as the best practice for intersexual conditions. In case of juvenile GD in DSD, the prescription of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues, following the World Professional Association for Transgender Health and the Endocrine Society guidelines, should be considered. It should always be taken into account that every DSD person is unique and has to be treated with individualized care. In this perspective, international registries are crucial to improve the understanding of these challenging conditions and clinical practice, in providing a better prediction of gender identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Fisher
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - E Fanni
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Castellini
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
- Psychiatric Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Forti
- Endocrine Unit, "Center for Research, Transfer and High Education on Chronic, Inflammatory, Degenerative and Neoplastic Disorders for the Development of Novel Therapies" (DENOThe), Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Careggi Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
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Callens N, Van Kuyk M, van Kuppenveld JH, Drop SLS, Cohen-Kettenis PT, Dessens AB. Recalled and current gender role behavior, gender identity and sexual orientation in adults with Disorders/Differences of Sex Development. Horm Behav 2016; 86:8-20. [PMID: 27576114 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The magnitude of sex differences in human brain and behavior and the respective contributions of biology versus socialization remain a topic of ongoing study in science. The preponderance of evidence attests to the notion that sexual differentiation processes are at least partially hormonally mediated, with high levels of prenatal androgens facilitating male-typed and inhibiting female-typed behaviors. In individuals with Disorders/Differences of Sex Development (DSD), hormonal profiles or sensitivities have been altered due to genetic influences, presumably affecting gender(ed) activity interests as well as gender identity development in a minority of the affected population. While continued postnatal androgen exposure in a number of DSD syndromes has been associated with higher rates of gender dysphoria and gender change, the role of a number of mediating and moderating factors, such as initial gender assignment, syndrome severity and clinical management remains largely unclear. Limited investigations of the associations between these identified influences and gendered development outcomes impede optimization of clinical care. Participants with DSD (n=123), recruited in the context of a Dutch multi-center follow-up audit, were divided in subgroups reflecting prenatal androgen exposure, genital appearance at birth and gender of rearing. Recalled childhood play and playmate preferences, gender identity and sexual orientation were measured with questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Data were compared to those of control male (n=46) and female participants (n=79). The findings support that (a) prenatal androgen exposure has large effects on (gendered) activity interests, but to a much lesser extent on sexual orientation and that (b) initial gender of rearing remains a better predictor of gender identity contentedness than prenatal androgen exposure, beyond syndrome severity and medical treatment influences. Nonetheless, 3.3% of individuals with DSD in our sample self-reported gender dysphoria from an early age and changed gender, which further underlines the need for thorough long- term follow-up and specific clinical support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Callens
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University Hospital Ghent and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Sophia Children's Hospital and Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike Van Kuyk
- Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Medical Center - Amalia Children's Hospital Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jet H van Kuppenveld
- Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Medical Center - Amalia Children's Hospital Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Stenvert L S Drop
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Sophia Children's Hospital and Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peggy T Cohen-Kettenis
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Social Work, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arianne B Dessens
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Sophia Children's Hospital and Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Lekarev O, Lin-Su K, Vogiatzi MG. Infertility and Reproductive Function in Patients with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: Pathophysiology, Advances in Management, and Recent Outcomes. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2015; 44:705-22. [PMID: 26568487 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with congenital adrenal hyperplasia have reduced fertility. However, reproductive outcomes have improved over the years. This review provides an update on the multiple pathologic processes that contribute to reduced fertility in both sexes, from alterations of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis to the direct effect on gonadal function by elevated circulating adrenal androgens. In addition, elevated serum progesterone concentrations may hinder ovulation and embryo implantation in women, whereas in men testicular adrenal rest tumors can be a major cause of infertility. Suppression of adrenal androgen secretion represents the first line of therapy toward spontaneous conception in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Lekarev
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karen Lin-Su
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria G Vogiatzi
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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13
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Reichman DE, White PC, New MI, Rosenwaks Z. Fertility in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:301-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Revised: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Abstract
Endocrine disease is common in pregnancy. Most pre-existing endocrine conditions, if well controlled, have little impact on maternal or fetal morbidity. Uncontrolled endocrine conditions in pregnancy, whether poorly controlled pre-conception or newly diagnosed, are associated with a variety of adverse fetal outcomes and maternal morbidity. Also, transplacental transfer of maternal antibodies can have adverse fetal or neonatal consequences. The initial diagnosis of many conditions is hindered by the overlap of symptoms that occur in normal pregnancy and those that suggest specific endocrine pathologies, and also by the changes in reference ranges for common biochemical measurements that occur as a result of physiological changes in pregnancy. This article summarises the common endocrine disorders in pregnancy and describes how pregnancy can alter their investigation, treatment and ongoing management, as well as the potential effects on the fetus.
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Krone N, Rose IT, Willis DS, Hodson J, Wild SH, Doherty EJ, Hahner S, Parajes S, Stimson RH, Han TS, Carroll PV, Conway GS, Walker BR, MacDonald F, Ross RJ, Arlt W. Genotype-phenotype correlation in 153 adult patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency: analysis of the United Kingdom Congenital adrenal Hyperplasia Adult Study Executive (CaHASE) cohort. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:E346-54. [PMID: 23337727 PMCID: PMC3651585 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2012-3343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT In congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, a strong genotype-phenotype correlation exists in childhood. However, similar data in adults are lacking. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to test whether the severity of disease-causing CYP21A2 mutations influences the treatment and health status in adults with CAH. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We analyzed the genotype in correlation with treatment and health status in 153 adults with CAH from the United Kingdom Congenital adrenal Hyperplasia Adult Study Executive cohort. RESULTS CYP21A2 mutations were distributed similarly to previously reported case series. In 7 patients a mutation was identified on only 1 allele. Novel mutations were detected on 1.7% of alleles (5 of 306). Rare mutations were found on 2.3% of alleles (7 of 306). For further analysis, patients were categorized into CYP21A2 mutation groups according to predicted residual enzyme function: null (n = 34), A (n = 42), B (n = 36), C (n = 34), and D (n = 7). Daily glucocorticoid dose was highest in group null and lowest in group C. Fludrocortisone was used more frequently in patients with more severe genotypes. Except for lower female height in group B, no statistically significant associations between genotype and clinical parameters were found. Androgens, blood pressure, lipids, blood glucose, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance were not different between groups. Subjective health status was similarly impaired across groups. CONCLUSIONS In adults with classic CAH and women with nonclassic CAH, there was a weak association between genotype and treatment, but health outcomes were not associated with genotype. The underrepresentation of males with nonclassic CAH may reflect that milder genotypes result in a milder condition that is neither diagnosed nor followed up in adulthood. Overall, our results suggest that the impaired health status of adults with CAH coming to medical attention is acquired rather than genetically determined and therefore could potentially be improved through modification of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Krone
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
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16
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Sharma S, Gupta DK. Male genitoplasty for 46 XX congenital adrenal hyperplasia patients presenting late and reared as males. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2012; 16:935-938. [PMID: 23226638 PMCID: PMC3510963 DOI: 10.4103/2230-8210.102994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the clinical profile and management of 46 XX Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) patients presenting with severe virilization and assigned a male gender. MATERIALS AND METHODS Of 173 children diagnosed with CAH at the Pediatric Intersex Clinic since 1980, seven children with CAH presented late with severe virilization and were reared as males. All of them were assigned the male sex with removal of the female adnexa. Six were treated with male genitoplasty. Appropriate hormonal supplementation was offered after puberty. RESULTS The mean age at presentation was 14.2 years (7 - 21). Six patients had presented after puberty, only one at seven years of age. Staged male genitoplasty comprising of chordee correction, male urethroplasty, and bilateral testicular prosthesis was performed. The female adnexa (uterus, ovaries, most of the upper vagina, and the fallopian tubes) were removed. The mental makeup was masculine in six and bigender in one. Bilateral mastectomy was performed at puberty in all. Hormonal treatment comprised of glucocorticoids and testosterone. Six patients were comfortable with the outcome of the masculinizing genitoplasty. One had a short-sized phallus. One had repeated attacks of urinary tract infection arising from the retained lower vaginal pouch. Social adjustments were good in all, except in one who had a bigender mental makeup. CONCLUSION CAH patients with severe virilization presenting late and reared as males are extremely rare. However, the assigned gender can be retained adequately as males, meeting the socioeconomic compulsions of the society. The results are satisfactory following appropriate surgical procedures and hormonal supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Sharma
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Devendra K. Gupta
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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17
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Jürgensen M, Kleinemeier E, Lux A, Steensma TD, Cohen-Kettenis PT, Hiort O, Thyen U, Köhler B. Psychosexual development in adolescents and adults with disorders of sex development--results from the German Clinical Evaluation Study. J Sex Med 2012; 10:2703-14. [PMID: 22548716 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02751.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Both biological and psychosocial factors influence psychosexual development. High levels of pre- and postnatal androgens lead to more male-typical behavior. So far, the influence of androgens on gender identity and sexual orientation is unclear. Disorders of sex development (DSDs) are heterogeneous genetic conditions with different levels of prenatal androgens resulting in variations of genital development. Through DSD, the role of the different factors, especially androgen exposure, on psychosexual development can be evaluated. AIM The purpose of the study was to assess psychosexual development in adolescents and adults with different forms of DSD. METHODS For the examination of psychosexual development of 66 adolescents and 110 adults with DSD, the authors used the Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale for adolescents, the Questionnaire of Gender Identity for adults, and a condition-specific DSD study questionnaire. Individuals were analyzed in four subgroups reflecting the karyotype, absence/presence of androgen effects, and gender of rearing. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Main outcome measures used were gender identity, friendships, love and sexual relationships, and sexual orientation in adolescents and adults with DSD. RESULTS Individuals with DSD did not show increased gender dysphoria. However, partnership and sexuality were identified to be difficult areas of life. Both adolescents and adults with DSD reported fewer experiences regarding love or sexual relationships compared with unaffected individuals. Especially men with DSD and undervirilization and women with DSD and androgen effects less often had a love relationship. Adult women with DSD and androgen effects more frequently engaged in love and sexual relationships with individuals of the same gender compared with women without DSD. CONCLUSION Individuals with DSD experience atypical hormonal influences (higher levels of androgens in girls/women and lower levels in androgens in boys/men); however, they did not show increased gender dysphoria in this study. However, partnership and sexual relationships are difficult areas of life for adolescents and adults with DSD. We recommend that individuals with DSD should get support from a multiprofessional team with competency in assessing and counseling issues regarding relationships and sexuality. Contact to other individuals with DSD can be helpful for nonprofessional support and exchange of experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Jürgensen
- Institute for Social Medicine, University Lübeck, Germany Department for Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Lübeck, Germany Institute for Biometry and Medical Informatics, University Otto-von-Guericke, Magdeburg, Germany Gender Clinic, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, University Children's Hospital, Charité, Humboldt University, Berlin
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18
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Jordan-Young RM. Hormones, context, and "brain gender": a review of evidence from congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Soc Sci Med 2011; 74:1738-44. [PMID: 21962724 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2011.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2010] [Revised: 07/19/2011] [Accepted: 08/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Brain organization theory suggests that steroid hormones during fetal development permanently organize the brain for gender, including patterns of sexuality, cognition, temperament, and interests that differ by sex. This widely-accepted theory has important implications for health, ranging from medical management of infants with intersex conditions to suggested etiologies for sex differences in autism, depression, and other mental health problems. Studies of genetic females with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), in which high prenatal androgens have been linked to both atypical genitals and "masculine" patterns of gender and sexuality, are particularly important. Based on a comprehensive review of research on CAH, this article demonstrates that such studies have neglected four broad categories of variables that plausibly affect psychosexual development: (1) physiological effects of CAH, including complex disruption of steroid hormones from early development onwards; (2) intensive medical intervention and surveillance, which many women with CAH describe as traumatic; (3) direct effects of genital morphology on sexuality (versus indirect effects that "masculine" genitals may have on gender socialization); and (4) expectations of masculinization that likely affect both the development and evaluation of gender and sexuality in CAH. Complex and iterative interactions among postnatal biological variables, medical interventions, and social context provide a more plausible explanation for atypicalities in psychology and behavior that have been reported for genetic females with CAH than the conventional explanation that early androgens have "masculinized" their brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Jordan-Young
- Department of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Barnard College, Columbia University, 3009 Broadway, New York, NY 10027, USA.
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19
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Review of Outcome Information in 46,XX Patients with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Assigned/Reared Male: What Does It Say about Gender Assignment? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY 2010; 2010:982025. [PMID: 21197442 PMCID: PMC3010645 DOI: 10.1155/2010/982025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2010] [Revised: 10/14/2010] [Accepted: 11/26/2010] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
There is ample historical verification of 46,XX congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) patients being born with essentially male genitaliawhile outcome information is scant. Prior to glucocorticoid therapy, most patients died very young from adrenal insufficiency. Most available reports from laterchildhood, contain little information concerning sexual identity. Reports on older individuals lack adequate information about sexual identity and quality of life. The difficulty in assessing the relative impact of multiple dynamic environmental factors on the development of sexual identity, self- and body esteem and overall adjustment to life is clear. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether those infants whose masculine genitalia at birth resulted in an initial male assignment would have enjoyed a better adult outcome had they been allowed to remain male rather than the female reassignment that most received. Further, one could ask whether a male sex of rearing should be considered in 46,XX CAH infants with male external genitalia. After reviewing available literature, we conclude that because those extremely virlized 46,XX CAH patients who were reared male with healthy social support demonstrated satisfactory levels of social and sexual function as adults a male sex assignment should be considered in these types of infants when social and cultural environment are supportive.
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Nimkarn S, New MI. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency: A paradigm for prenatal diagnosis and treatment. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2010; 1192:5-11. [PMID: 20392211 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.05225.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
21-Hydroxylase deficiency is the most common cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), an inherited disorder of steroidogenesis. In its severe form, CAH causes genital ambiguity in females. Molecular genetic analysis of fetal DNA obtained by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling is used to diagnose steroid 21-OHD deficiency in utero. Large ongoing studies show that appropriate prenatal treatment of pregnant mothers with dexamethasone is effective and safe for both the fetus and the mother. It reduces ambiguous genitalia in the female affected fetus and thus avoids unnecessary genitoplasty in the newborn female.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saroj Nimkarn
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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21
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Growth and reproductive outcomes in congenital adrenal hyperplasia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY 2010; 2010:298937. [PMID: 20148087 PMCID: PMC2817857 DOI: 10.1155/2010/298937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2009] [Accepted: 12/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency is complex. In addition to disease control, important therapeutic goals are the maintenance of normal growth and the acquisition of normal reproductive function. Here, data regarding final adult height (FH) in patients with CAH will be reviewed. Additional difficulties associated with CAH, including risks of obesity and hypertension, will be discussed. Information about fertility and reproductive outcomes in men and women with CAH will also be summarized. Although the treatment of each child with CAH needs to be individualized, close medical followup and laboratory monitoring along with good compliance can often result in positive clinical outcomes.
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Nimkarn S, New MI. Prenatal diagnosis and treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 300:192-6. [PMID: 19101608 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2008] [Revised: 11/26/2008] [Accepted: 11/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) applies to a group of inherited disorders caused by an enzyme deficiency in steroid biosynthesis. The most common form of CAH is 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD), which in its severe form can cause genital ambiguity in females. Affected females experience virilization both physically and psychologically. Steroid 21-OHD can be diagnosed in utero through molecular genetic analysis of fetal DNA. Appropriate prenatal treatment by dexamethasone administration to the at-risk pregnant mother is effective in reducing genital virilization in the fetus, thus avoiding unnecessary genitoplasty in affected females. Current data from large human studies show that prenatal diagnosis and treatment are safe in the short term for both the fetus and the mother. Preliminary data from long-term studies support these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saroj Nimkarn
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, USA
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23
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Simm PJ, Zacharin MR. Successful pregnancy in a patient with severe 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency and novel mutations in CYP11B1 gene. Horm Res Paediatr 2007; 68:294-7. [PMID: 17726333 DOI: 10.1159/000107651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2006] [Accepted: 04/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
11 beta-Hydroxylase deficiency is a rare form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, resulting in virilization, glucocorticoid deficiency and hypertension. There have been no previous reports in the literature of a successful pregnancy in a severely affected female. We report the first successful pregnancy resulting in a live birth for a female with 11 beta-hydroxylase deficiency and outline management issues from preconception to successful birth. We also report 2 novel mutations in the CYP11B1 gene leading to 11 beta-hydroxylase deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Simm
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Australia.
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24
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Gurney K. Sex and the surgeon's knife: the family court's dilemma...informed consent and the specter of iatrogenic harm to children with intersex characteristics. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF LAW & MEDICINE 2007; 33:625-661. [PMID: 18277512 DOI: 10.1177/009885880703300403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
“When I use a word,” Humpty Dumpty said, in a rather scornful tone, “it means just what I choose it to mean, neither more nor less.””The question is,” said Alice, “whether you can make words mean so many different things.””The question is,” said Humpty Dumpty, “which is to be master - that's all.”—Lewis Carroll“Sex” is a complex thing. The word conjures up many images according to how it is used. When narrowed to the context of the law, however, a person’s sex can be broken down into three primary categories: biological sex, common law sex, and legal sex.Biological sex has traditionally been determined according to the presence or absence of genitals and gonads (phenotype), and the configuration of the sex chromosomes (karyotype).
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Abstract
Disorders of somatosexual development that lead to ambiguous genitalia occur in one from 3,000-5,000 newborns. Parents and health care professionals are confronted with a number of crucial questions: to what sex should the child be assigned, what is the appropriate treatment in terms of hormonal and surgical interventions, when and how should these take place, and what impact do they have on the development of gender identity (GI), psychosexual well-being and fertility? This paper reviews the etiology, treatment and outcome in terms of GI and sexual health for the following syndromes: congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), complete and partial androgen insensitivity (cAIS, pAIS), and pure and mixed gonadal dysgenesis (pGD, mGD). Emphasis is focussed on the current discussion involving the timing and extent of genital surgery. Finally, a procedure is introduced that covers the sexual-medical needs of patients, parents and health care professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- H A G Bosinski
- Sexualmedizinische Forschungs- und Beratungsstelle, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 12, 24105, Kiel.
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Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to deficiency of 21-hydroxylase is a disorder of the adrenal cortex characterised by cortisol deficiency, with or without aldosterone deficiency, and androgen excess. Patients with the most severe form also have abnormalities of the adrenal medulla and epinephrine deficiency. The severe classic form occurs in one in 15,000 births worldwide, and the mild non-classic form is a common cause of hyperandrogenism. Neonatal screening for CAH and gene-specific prenatal diagnosis are now possible. Standard hormone replacement fails to achieve normal growth and development for many children with CAH, and adults can experience iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome, hyperandrogenism, infertility, or the development of the metabolic syndrome. This Seminar reviews the epidemiology, genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of CAH, and provides an overview of clinical challenges and future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah P Merke
- Pediatric and Reproductive Endocrinology Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1932, USA.
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Hoepffner W, Schulze E, Bennek J, Keller E, Willgerodt H. Pregnancies in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia with complete or almost complete impairment of 21-hydroxylase activity. Fertil Steril 2004; 81:1314-21. [PMID: 15136096 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2003.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2003] [Revised: 10/22/2003] [Accepted: 10/22/2003] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To show that, with appropriate therapy, women with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) can become pregnant. DESIGN Observational clinical study. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) Adult young women with CAH: three with the salt-wasting form and four patients with simple virilizing CAH due to severe homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations of the CYP21B gene (deletions, I172N in exon 4 and nt656A/C-->G in intron 2) who wished to become pregnant. INTERVENTION(S) After confirmation in the first patient of the beneficial effect of additional treatment with fludrocortisone in lowering 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) levels, five other patients were treated with hydrocortisone as three daily doses at 8-hour intervals and fludrocortisone 0.1-0.2 mg daily divided into two to three doses. One patient received glucocorticoid alone. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Treatment was controlled on the basis of morning salivary 17-OHP estimates and plasma renin concentrations. RESULT(S) Nine pregnancies occurred in six women. The course of the pregnancies (except one spontaneous abortion) was normal without any other modification of therapy. Only the women treated with hydrocortisone alone did not become pregnant. CONCLUSION(S) When treated with a combination of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, sexually active patients with the classic phenotype of CAH can become pregnant.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To consider explanations for the inconsistent evidence concerning behavioral effects of androgens in women. The following possible explanatory mechanisms are explored: [1] Women vary in their behavioral responsiveness to T. [2] Some reported effects of exogenous T may be induced by increasing bioavailable estrogen. [3] Sexual effects of T may be secondary to direct effects on mood. [4] The relationship between T and sexuality is readily obscured by psychological mechanisms. [5] Stress-induced increases in adrenal androgens may further confuse the picture. [6] Women who respond to T respond to levels that are ineffective in men. There is no evidence of a threshold in women above which further increases in T have no additional effect. CONCLUSION(S) A theoretical model, involving desensitization of the central nervous system to T during early development in the male, is presented as a possible explanation for some of these relevant differences between men and women and for much of the conflicting evidence in the literature on women.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Bancroft
- Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA.
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Woelfle J, Hoepffner W, Sippell WG, Brämswig JH, Heidemann P, Deiss D, Bökenkamp A, Roth C, Irle U, Wollmann HA, Zachmann M, Kubini K, Albers N. Complete virilization in congenital adrenal hyperplasia: clinical course, medical management and disease-related complications. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2002; 56:231-8. [PMID: 11874415 DOI: 10.1046/j.0300-0664.2001.01463.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In girls with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), genital ambiguity usually leads to a rapid neonatal diagnosis. Rarely, CAH causes complete virilization and male sex assignment with a delayed diagnosis. After being confronted with very specific problems in two of such patients, we collected data of patients with CAH and complete virilization in a nationwide study to delineate specific problems of these rare patients in order to improve their management. DESIGN AND PATIENTS Through the German Working Group of Paediatric Endocrinology (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Pädiatrische Endokrinologie, APE), questionnaires were sent to all members caring for patients with CAH and complete virilization in their endocrine clinics. Data from 16 patients from 10 paediatric endocrine centres were assessed by questionnaire. RESULTS The following problems have been encountered. (1) Sex assignment/gender identity: initially all patients had a male sex assignment. Six patients were diagnosed during the first month of life. Five were reassigned to female sex immediately, one at the age of 19 months. Except in one girl demonstrating some tomboyish behaviour, gender role behaviour in these patients did not differ from unaffected girls. Ten patients were diagnosed late at 3.4--7 years of age. In seven patients with a late diagnosis, male sex assignment was maintained; one of them expressed some concerns about living as a male. In three patients late sex reversal was performed, gender identity is very poor in one and new sex assignment is currently under consideration. (2) SURGERY: irrespective of the sex assigned, all patients had between one and three surgical procedures, including clitoris reduction and (repeated) vaginoplasties in patients with female sex assignment. Hysterectomy and ovarectomy were performed in patients with male sex assignment. (3) Short stature: patients with a late diagnosis of CAH had extremely advanced bone ages of +6.3 to +9.5 years, leading to severely reduced final height of 137 to 150 cm in adult patients. Patients tended to follow height percentiles of genetic females. One pubertal patient was suicidal due to short stature. (4) Central precocious puberty (CPP): prolonged exposition to adrenal androgens led to CPP in one patient. He was treated with GnRH analogues until gonadectomy. CONCLUSIONS Patients with CAH and complete virilization have a high risk of being diagnosed late. There are major problems and uncertainties of the patients' families and the treating physicians concerning gender assignment. Gender identity is disturbed in some patients. In addition, multiple surgical procedures are necessary and short stature as well as central precocious puberty might be important to avoid late sequelae. While some surgical interventions are probably unavoidable, most of these issues could be resolved with an early diagnosis. Thus, especially for these patients, a neonatal screening programme for CAH would be of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Woelfle
- Children's Hospital, University of Bonn, Germany
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Krone N, Wachter I, Stefanidou M, Roscher AA, Schwarz HP. Mothers with congenital adrenal hyperplasia and their children: outcome of pregnancy, birth and childhood. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2001; 55:523-9. [PMID: 11678836 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2265.2001.01359.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fertility rates in women with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) are reported to be poor, but few data are available. We assessed rates and course of pregnancy, mode of delivery and long-term outcome of offspring from women with CAH. DESIGN A large cohort of women with CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency had initially been diagnosed and followed at one centre. Those women who had given birth were contacted. Information was gathered from hospital records, direct patient contact, structured questionnaire and the Documentation of Pregnancy and Preventive Care Booklets. RESULTS Between 1978 and 1998, 18 women with CAH (one salt wasting, 12 simple virilizing, five nonclassical) had given birth to 31 children (18 females, 13 males). Delivery was by Caesarean section in 16 out of the 31 children. None of the female newborns was masculinized. Twenty-nine children were born at term, five children were small for gestational age (SGA). Postnatal development was basically normal in all children; 18 are now older than 10 years, seven are between 5 and 10 years old, six are less than 5 years old. CONCLUSIONS Fertility is reduced in females with CAH, especially those with the severe or salt wasting phenotype. In those women with CAH who do conceive, course and outcome of pregnancy is mostly uneventful, although the rate of SGA offspring may be increased. Psychomotor and somatic long-term development of the children was within normal limits.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Krone
- University Children's Hospital, Munich, Germany
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31
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Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia syndromes result from deficiencies of enzymes involved in corticosteroid biosynthesis. Most commonly, they are due to mutations in 21-hydroxylase. This chapter describes the clinical diagnosis and management of congenital adrenal hyperplasias throughout life, including in the fetus, child and adult. These clinical recommendations are explained in the context of the molecular and biochemical characteristics of the diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C White
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235-9063, USA
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32
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Abstract
More than 90% of cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH, the inherited inability to synthesize cortisol) are caused by 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Females with severe, classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency are exposed to excess androgens prenatally and are born with virilized external genitalia. Most patients cannot synthesize sufficient aldosterone to maintain sodium balance and may develop potentially fatal "salt wasting" crises if not treated. The disease is caused by mutations in the CYP21 gene encoding the steroid 21-hydroxylase enzyme. More than 90% of these mutations result from intergenic recombinations between CYP21 and the closely linked CYP21P pseudogene. Approximately 20% are gene deletions due to unequal crossing over during meiosis, whereas the remainder are gene conversions--transfers to CYP21 of deleterious mutations normally present in CYP21P. The degree to which each mutation compromises enzymatic activity is strongly correlated with the clinical severity of the disease in patients carrying it. Prenatal diagnosis by direct mutation detection permits prenatal treatment of affected females to minimize genital virilization. Neonatal screening by hormonal methods identifies affected children before salt wasting crises develop, reducing mortality from this condition. Glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement are the mainstays of treatment, but more rational dosing and additional therapies are being developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C White
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75390-9063, USA.
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Brook CG. Antenatal treatment of a mother bearing a fetus with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2000; 82:F176-81. [PMID: 10794782 PMCID: PMC1721096 DOI: 10.1136/fn.82.3.f176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C G Brook
- London Centre for Paediatric Endocrinology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children and The Middlesex Hospital, London, UK.
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