Recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin for induction of spermatogenesis in a hypogonadotropic male

Abstract

Objective: To determine the efficacy of recombinant FSH administration to induce spermatogenesis.

Design: Case report, clinical study.

Setting: Tertiary center for reproductive medicine of the university.

Patient: A 44-year-old hypogonadal man with postpubertal pituitary insufficiency due to surgical removal of a prolactinoma.

Interventions: Recombinant FSH (150 IU three times weekly) was administered together with hCG (1,500 IU twice weekly). Control examinations were performed every 6 weeks, including hormone determinations, safety parameters, testicular volume measurements, and semen analysis.

Main outcome measure: Semen parameters.

Results: After 18 weeks of treatment, first sperm were seen in the ejaculate and reached normal sperm concentrations after 24 weeks of treatment. Serum hormone levels were in the normal range and testicular volume increased. No adverse side effects were observed.

Conclusions: Recombinant human FSH in combination with hCG can be used successfully for stimulation of testicular function in gonadotropin-deficient men.