Endocrine interrelationships in patients with malignant testicular tumours
Lunglmayr, G.; Kuber, W.; Spona, J.
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift 93(13): 411-414
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0043-5325 PMID: 6791391 Document Number: 172446
Testicular function was investigated in 40 patients with malignant testicular tumors of different histology and tumor stage by spermatological and endocrinological analyses. In patients without ectopic production of .beta.-HCG in the tumor tissue a hypergonadotropic tubular dysfunction of the testis was present, resulting in elevated plasma FSH concentrations and moderate to severe oligozoospermia. Ectopic production of .beta.-HCG in the tumor stimulated the secretion of 17.beta.-estradiol, particularly in the Leydig cells, which suppresses pituitary gonadotropin secretion via negative testicular pituitary feedback. Spermatological analyses showed severe spermatogenetic disorders. Prolactin levels were not altered in patients with testicular cancer.