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Del Can Sánchez DJ, Dueñas Disotuar S, Piñar Gutiérrez A, Japón Rodríguez MÁ, Olea Comas I, Déniz García A, Soto Moreno A, Mangas Cruz MÁ. Gender Incongruity in a Person with 46,XY and Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome Raised as a Female. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2353-2357. [PMID: 34786658 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02183-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We present the case of a patient with female sex assignment at birth whose parents consulted with a pediatrician when the child was 12 years old, indicating that despite female sex assignment, she felt that she (henceforth "he") had a male gender identity and was gynephilic. Medical examination revealed a 46XY karyotype, a primary amenorrhea and an appropriate testosterone increase after HCG stimulation test. The patient was diagnosed then with a 46,XY disorder of sex development with androgen insensitivity syndrome, but then he missed subsequent appointments. At the age of 24, he resumed medical follow-up to reaffirm his male gender identity through sex reassignment surgery. His physical examination showed a Tanner stage III-IV breast development, vulva, clitoris, normal-sized vagina, absence of uterus and ovaries on transvaginal ultrasound, bilateral cryptorchidism on abdominal-pelvic MRI and osteoporosis on bone densitometry. The results of the blood tests were LH 24.5 mIU/mL [normal range, 1.7-8.6 mIU/mL for men] and testosterone 8.8 nmol/L [8.7-33 nmol/L]; conversely, FSH, estradiol, progesterone, and prolactin levels were normal. The molecular genetic analysis revealed an androgen receptor gene mutation associated with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome. At present, the patient has undergone bilateral orchiectomy and has initiated treatment with topical testosterone and bisphosphonates. We have yet to evaluate the effects and decide the best therapy taking into account that he has a male gender identity but complete androgen insensitivity syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Jesús Del Can Sánchez
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition of the University Hospital Virgen del Rocío, Muro de los Navarros Street, Apt. 40, Door 12, 41013, Seville, Spain.
| | - Suset Dueñas Disotuar
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition of the University Hospital Virgen del Rocío, Muro de los Navarros Street, Apt. 40, Door 12, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Ana Piñar Gutiérrez
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition of the University Hospital Virgen del Rocío, Muro de los Navarros Street, Apt. 40, Door 12, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Isabel Olea Comas
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging of the University Hospital Virgen del Rocío, Seville, Spain
| | - Alejandro Déniz García
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition of the University Hospital Virgen del Rocío, Muro de los Navarros Street, Apt. 40, Door 12, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Alfonso Soto Moreno
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition of the University Hospital Virgen del Rocío, Muro de los Navarros Street, Apt. 40, Door 12, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Miguel Ángel Mangas Cruz
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition of the University Hospital Virgen del Rocío, Muro de los Navarros Street, Apt. 40, Door 12, 41013, Seville, Spain
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Chen JF, Lin PW, Tsai YR, Yang YC, Kang HY. Androgens and Androgen Receptor Actions on Bone Health and Disease: From Androgen Deficiency to Androgen Therapy. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111318. [PMID: 31731497 PMCID: PMC6912771 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens are not only essential for bone development but for the maintenance of bone mass. Therefore, conditions with androgen deficiency, such as male hypogonadism, androgen-insensitive syndromes, and prostate cancer with androgen deprivation therapy are strongly associated with bone loss and increased fracture risk. Here we summarize the skeletal effects of androgens—androgen receptors (AR) actions based on in vitro and in vivo studies from animals and humans, and discuss bone loss due to androgens/AR deficiency to clarify the molecular basis for the anabolic action of androgens and AR in bone homeostasis and unravel the functions of androgen/AR signaling in healthy and disease states. Moreover, we provide evidence for the skeletal benefits of androgen therapy and elucidate why androgens are more beneficial than male sexual hormones, highlighting their therapeutic potential as osteoanabolic steroids in improving bone fracture repair. Finally, the application of selective androgen receptor modulators may provide new approaches for the treatment of osteoporosis and fractures as well as building stronger bones in diseases dependent on androgens/AR status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Feng Chen
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (P.-W.L.); (Y.-R.T.); (Y.-C.Y.)
| | - Pei-Wen Lin
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (P.-W.L.); (Y.-R.T.); (Y.-C.Y.)
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ru Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (P.-W.L.); (Y.-R.T.); (Y.-C.Y.)
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- An-Ten Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Kaohsiung 802, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chien Yang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (P.-W.L.); (Y.-R.T.); (Y.-C.Y.)
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Yo Kang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (P.-W.L.); (Y.-R.T.); (Y.-C.Y.)
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-7-731-7123 (ext. 8898)
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Lanciotti L, Cofini M, Leonardi A, Bertozzi M, Penta L, Esposito S. Different Clinical Presentations and Management in Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16071268. [PMID: 30970592 PMCID: PMC6480640 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16071268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) is an X-linked recessive genetic disorder resulting from maternally inherited or de novo mutations involving the androgen receptor gene, situated in the Xq11-q12 region. The diagnosis is based on the presence of female external genitalia in a 46, XY human individual, with normally developed but undescended testes and complete unresponsiveness of target tissues to androgens. Subsequently, pelvic ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could be helpful in confirming the absence of Mullerian structures, revealing the presence of a blind-ending vagina and identifying testes. CAIS management still represents a unique challenge throughout childhood and adolescence, particularly regarding timing of gonadectomy, type of hormonal therapy, and psychological concerns. Indeed this condition is associated with an increased risk of testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT), although TGCT results less frequently than in other disorders of sex development (DSD). Furthermore, the majority of detected tumoral lesions are non-invasive and with a low probability of progression into aggressive forms. Therefore, histological, epidemiological, and prognostic features of testicular cancer in CAIS allow postponing of the gonadectomy until after pubertal age in order to guarantee the initial spontaneous pubertal development and avoid the necessity of hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) induction. However, HRT is necessary after gonadectomy in order to prevent symptoms of hypoestrogenism and to maintain secondary sexual features. This article presents differential clinical presentations and management in patients with CAIS to emphasize the continued importance of standardizing the clinical and surgical approach to this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Lanciotti
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy.
| | - Marta Cofini
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy.
| | - Alberto Leonardi
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy.
| | - Mirko Bertozzi
- Pediatric Surgery, Azienda Ospedaliera Santa Maria della Misericordia, 20122 Perugia, Italy.
| | - Laura Penta
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy.
| | - Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy.
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Calvo A, Escolino M, Settimi A, Roberti A, Caprio MG, Esposito C. Laparoscopic approach for gonadectomy in pediatric patients with intersex disorders. Transl Pediatr 2016; 5:295-304. [PMID: 27867855 PMCID: PMC5107383 DOI: 10.21037/tp.2016.09.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The birth of a child with a disorder of sex development (DSD) prompts a long-term management strategy that involves a myriad of professionals working with the family. There has been progress in diagnosis, surgical techniques and in understanding psychosocial issues related to this condition. However, since these kinds of disorders are rare and have many anatomical variations, individual care is necessary, especially regarding surgical management. Gonadectomy is indicated in a number of intersex disorders with a Y chromosome to reduce the associated risk of cancer. Recently, laparoscopy has gained wide acceptance in pediatric urology. Laparoscopy is also reported to be a useful tool for diagnosing and treating DSD because of its minimal invasiveness and favorable cosmetic outcome. However, reports of evaluation and management using laparoscopy for large numbers of DSD patients are limited and debate is still open about indications and timing of gonadectomy. In this study, we reviewed the literature of the last 10 years about the role of laparoscopic gonadectomy in patients with DSD. In the analyzed papers, all the procedures were accomplished successfully using laparoscopy. No conversions to open surgery neither intra-operative complications were reported in all series. Post-operative complications were reported only in one series and included 1 umbilical port infection [2% (1/50)] and 1 pelvic abscess [2% (1/50)], both treated with antibiotic therapy (grade I Clavien-Dindo). Of the analyzed series, 7/10 reported postoperative diagnosis of gonadal tumors. The histopathologic examinations revealed 15 cases of gonadoblastoma, 7 cases of dysgerminoma and 2 cases of seminoma. Analyzing the single series, the incidence of these tumors varied between 10% and 33%. The results of our review confirmed the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic gonadectomy in DSD patients. In our mind, laparoscopic gonadectomy should be accepted as the treatment of choice in children and adolescents with these rare conditions. It thereby eliminates the risk of malignancies of gonadal origin with the advantages of a minimally invasive procedure, with lower morbidity, quicker postoperative recovery and excellent cosmetic results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres Calvo
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Children Hospital, Cordoba, Argentina
| | - Maria Escolino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Settimi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Agnese Roberti
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Caprio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Ciro Esposito
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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5
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The Multifacets of Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2016; 29:319. [PMID: 27324169 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Hiort O, Birnbaum W, Marshall L, Wünsch L, Werner R, Schröder T, Döhnert U, Holterhus PM. Management of disorders of sex development. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2014; 10:520-9. [PMID: 25022812 DOI: 10.1038/nrendo.2014.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The medical term disorders of sex development (DSDs) is used to describe individuals with an atypical composition of chromosomal, gonadal and phenotypic sex, which leads to differences in the development of the urogenital tract and reproductive system. A variety of genetic factors have been identified that affect sex development during gonadal differentiation or in specific disorders associated with altered androgen biosynthesis or action. The diagnosis of DSDs in individuals and the subsequent management of patients and their families requires a targeted and structured approach, involving a multidisciplinary team with effective communication between the disciplines. This approach includes distinct clinical, imaging, laboratory and genetic evaluations of patients with DSDs. Although treatment of patients with DSDs can include endocrine and surgical options, many patients have concerns that arise from past incorrect treatments that were founded on the traditional binary concept of the sexes. To dispel these concerns, it is necessary to create centres of expertise for DSDs that include physicians, surgeons, psychologists and specialists in diagnostic procedures to manage patients and their families. Additionally, the inclusion of trained peer support in the multidisciplinary DSD team seems to be integral to the supportive management of patients with DSDs. Most importantly, dealing with DSDs requires acceptance of the fact that deviation from the traditional definitions of gender is not necessarily pathologic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf Hiort
- Division of Experimental Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Wiebke Birnbaum
- Division of Experimental Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Louise Marshall
- Division of Experimental Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Lutz Wünsch
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ralf Werner
- Division of Experimental Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Tatjana Schröder
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ulla Döhnert
- Division of Experimental Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Paul-Martin Holterhus
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics, Christian-Albrechts-University, Schwanenweg 20, 24105 Kiel, Germany
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Abstract
Disorders of sex development (DSDs) are estimated to be prevalent in 0.1-2% of the global population, although these figures are unlikely to adequately represent non-white patients as they are largely based on studies performed in Europe and the USA. Possible causes of DSDs include disruptions to gene expression and regulation-processes that are considered essential for the development of testes and ovaries in the embryo. Gender dysphoria generally affects between 8.5-20% of individuals with DSDs, depending on the type of DSD. Patients with simple virilizing congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), as well as those with CAH and severe virilization, are less likely to have psychosexual disorders than patients with other types of DSD. Early surgery seems to be a safe option for most of these patients. Male sex assignment is an appropriate alternative in patients with Prader IV or V DSDs. Patients with 5α-reductase 2 (5α-RD2) and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 (17β-HSD3) deficiencies exhibit the highest rates of gender dysphoria (incidence of up to 63%). Disorders such as ovotesticular DSD and mixed gonadal dysgenesis are relatively rare and it can be difficult to conclusively evaluate patients with these conditions. For all DSDs, it is important that investigators and authors conform to the same nomenclature and definitions to ensure that data can be reliably analysed.
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Abstract
The birth of a new baby is one of the most dramatic events in a family, and the first question is usually "is it a boy or a girl?" The newborn infant with ambiguous external genitalia often comes as a surprise for the doctors as well as the parents and is sometimes described as an endocrine emergency situation presenting a problem of sex assignment. The nomenclature such as 'intersex', 'hermaphrodite', and 'pseudohermaphrodite' is out of date as well as confusing, and many urologists are concerned that these confusing terms could be perceived to be pejorative by some affected families. In response to concerns regarding outdated and controversial terms, the Chicago Consensus held in 2005 recommended new terminology based on the umbrella term disorders of sex differentiation (DSDs). The term DSD has a comprehensive definition including any problem noted at birth in which the genitalia are atypical in relation to the chromosomes or gonads. The karyotype is used as a prefix defining the classification of DSD. DSDs are rare and complex. The optimal management of patients with DSD must be individualized and multidisciplinary, considering all aspects, including psychological care and full disclosure of alternatives relating to surgery type and timing. Although further studies are necessary to confirm guidelines and recommendations fitting for the individual patients with DSD, this article is an attempt to provide a balanced perspective for new taxonomy, clinical evaluation, and medical, surgical, and psychological management of DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Suk Kim
- Department of Urology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Abstract
Aromatase, an enzyme located in the endoplasmic reticulum of estrogen-producing cells, catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the conversion of androgens to estrogens in many tissues. The clinical features of patients with defects in CYP19A1, the gene encoding aromatase, have revealed a major role for this enzyme in epiphyseal plate closure, which has promoted interest in the use of inhibitors of aromatase to improve adult height. The availability of the selective aromatase inhibitors letrozole and anastrozole--currently approved as adjuvant therapy for breast cancer--have stimulated off-label use of aromatase inhibitors in pediatrics for the following conditions: hyperestrogenism, such as aromatase excess syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, McCune-Albright syndrome and functional follicular ovarian cysts; hyperandrogenism, for example, testotoxicosis (also known as familial male-limited precocious puberty) and congenital adrenal hyperplasia; pubertal gynecomastia; and short stature and/or pubertal delay in boys. Current data suggest that aromatase inhibitors are probably effective in the treatment of patients with aromatase excess syndrome or testotoxicosis, partially effective in Peutz-Jeghers and McCune-Albright syndrome, but probably ineffective in gynecomastia. Insufficient data are available in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia or functional ovarian cysts. Although aromatase inhibitors appear effective in increasing adult height of boys with short stature and/or pubertal delay, safety concerns, including vertebral deformities, a decrease in serum HDL cholesterol levels and increase of erythrocytosis, are reasons for caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M Wit
- Department of Pediatrics, J6S, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, P. O. Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Sharma S, Gupta DK. Gender assignment and hormonal treatment for disorders of sexual differentiation. Pediatr Surg Int 2008; 24:1131-5. [PMID: 18704450 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-008-2232-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the gender assignment and hormonal treatment advocated for disorders of sexual differentiation (DSD). METHODS A study was done on patients who were reviewed in the Pediatric Intersex Clinic to evaluate the pattern of gender assignment and hormonal treatment advocated. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The patients included male pseudohermaphrodite (MPH) 169; congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) 91; mixed gonadal dysgenesis (MGD) 29; true hermaphrodite (TH) 25; pure gonadal dysgenesis (PGD) 2; persistent mullerian duct syndrome (PMDS) 2 and others (micropenis, severe hypospadias with cryptorchidism, 46XX male) 39. Out of 91 cases of CAH, 70 (76.9%) were on steroids (prednisolone, hydrocortisone) and/or mineralocorticoids (fluoricortisone) for adrenal suppression. Out of 146 cases of male pseudohermaphrodite and 21 cases of true hermaphrodite and 3 cases of mixed gonadal dysgenesis reared as males, testosterone was given for local application for phallic growth in 101 and/or as systemic injection for mental makeup after puberty in 41 cases. Systemic testosterone injection was also given for 7 cases of CAH reared as males. Out of 26, 15 cases with mixed gonadal dysgenesis and one out of 2 cases of pure gonadal dysgenesis that attained puberty after being reared as females, after female genitoplasty, were given conjugated oestrogen (Premarin) supplemented with progesterone, as the uterus was preserved. For 12 post-pubertal cases of complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS), only premarin was given as there was no uterus. Growth hormone and Gn RH analogue was given in 2 patients with CAH to tide over the early bone maturation induced by hormones with equivocal results. Thus judicious hormonal supplementation based upon type of DSD and gender assigned can provide a psychological and cosmetic benefit to patients with DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Sharma
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Abstract
Hormonal treatment represents the principal aspect of clinical management of people with disorders of sex development (DSD) from adolescence onwards. In fact, individuals with DSD may require sex steroid replacement to induce secondary sex characteristics, to optimize bone mass accrual, and to promote physical and social well-being. Testosterone is the main hormone for treatment in males and estrogens in females. The optimal regimens for sex steroid substitutive therapy in subjects with DSD should be better defined in multi-center prospective studies. Bone health remains a crucial aspect in the management of these persons, but few sound data are available to guide clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvano Bertelloni
- Adolescent Medicine, 2nd Pediatric Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Pediatrics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy.
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Brinkmann L, Schweizer K, Richter-Appelt H. Behandlungserfahrungen von Menschen mit Intersexualität. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-007-0199-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Brinkmann L, Schuetzmann K, Richter-Appelt H. Gender assignment and medical history of individuals with different forms of intersexuality: evaluation of medical records and the patients' perspective. J Sex Med 2007; 4:964-80. [PMID: 17627743 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2007.00524.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Until now, there are only few studies that focus on the specific treatment experiences of people with intersexuality and evaluate their outcome in terms of psychological, physical, and social well-being. Further, the presentation of the patients' perspective is often neglected in research. AIM Overview of preliminary results of the Hamburg-Intersex-Study on gender assignment and medical history of adult subjects with intersexuality (disorders of sex development), as well as the patients retrospectively stated thoughts and feelings regarding these interventions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Medical records from participants of the study were analyzed. The subjective attitudes and evaluation of the treatment measures were assessed with a self-constructed questionnaire. Data on psychological well-being were measured with the Brief Symptom Inventory. METHODS In total, 37 adult participants (mean age 30.6 years) with following diagnosis were included: congenital adrenal hyperplasia, complete and partial androgen insensitivity syndrome, gonadal dysgenesis and disturbances of the androgen biosynthesis, such as 5 alpha reductase deficiency and 17 beta hydroxysteroid deficiency. RESULTS The majority of participants had (often multiple) genital surgery to correct the appearance of their genitalia and/or to enable sexual functioning. The diagnostic groups differ not only in amount and invasiveness of experienced surgical and medical treatment but also in the subjective and retrospective evaluation of the treatment measures and in the amount of reported psychological distress. CONCLUSION Many subjects stated to have experienced the medical procedures and care very negatively, whereby the aspects of secrecy, untruthfulness, and concealment were stated as most difficult and burdening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Brinkmann
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
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14
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The current management of patients with intersex, now designated as disorders of sex development, is presented in the context of updated etiological and outcome data, refined surgical procedures and the need for a multidisciplinary approach. RECENT FINDINGS The recently published consensus statement, the primary publication cited herein, includes known genetic causes of disorders of sex development, and provides a perspective for clinical evaluation, and medical, surgical and psychological management. The importance of fetal hormone exposure, genital development, gonadal differentiation and potential of fertility, full disclosure and parental involvement in decisions is crucial. All need a sex assignment; recommendations should be based upon what is judged to be the most likely adult gender identity, diagnosis, genital appearance and surgical options, fertility, cultural pressures, family dynamics and social circumstance, with deference given to psychosocial factors when the outcome is unpredictable. Surgery is discouraged for mild genital variations, but surgery during infancy is recommended for those with major genital ambiguity. SUMMARY Even with greater understanding of the genetic causes of disorders of sex development, the complex management of these patients must be individualized, considering all aspects, informing as age-appropriate the parents and patient. Further etiology and outcome studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeina M Nabhan
- Section of Pediatric Endocrinology/Diabetology, Department of Pediatrics, James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA.
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Houk CP, Hughes IA, Ahmed SF, Lee PA. Summary of consensus statement on intersex disorders and their management. International Intersex Consensus Conference. Pediatrics 2006; 118:753-7. [PMID: 16882833 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006-0737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher P Houk
- Department of Pediatrics, Backus Children's Hospital, Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, Georgia, USA
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16
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Lee PA, Houk CP, Ahmed SF, Hughes IA. Consensus statement on management of intersex disorders. International Consensus Conference on Intersex. Pediatrics 2006; 118:e488-500. [PMID: 16882788 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006-0738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 657] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, MC-085, Penn State College of Medicine, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Box 850, 500 University Dr, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033-0850, USA.
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17
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Abstract
Management of intersex disorders
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Hughes
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Box 116, Level 8, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QQ, UK.
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Abstract
The birth of an intersex child prompts a long-term management strategy that involves a myriad of professionals working with the family. There has been progress in diagnosis, surgical techniques, understanding psychosocial issues and in recognizing and accepting the place of patient advocacy. The Lawson Wilkins Paediatric Endocrine Society (LWPES) and the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) considered it timely to review the management of intersex disorders from a broad perspective, to review data on longer term outcome and to formulate proposals for future studies. The methodology comprised establishing a number of working groups whose membership was drawn from 50 international experts in the field. The groups prepared prior written responses to a defined set of questions resulting from an evidence based review of the literature. At a subsequent gathering of participants, a framework for a consensus document was agreed. This paper constitutes its final form.
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Hughes
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 2QQ, UK.
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