Have you heard about testicular atrophy? The condition can be caused by hormonal imbalances, infections, trauma, varicocele, and the use of anabolic steroids. Early diagnosis can prevent more serious problems. Learn more about the condition in today’s text.
Testicular atrophy, which causes a reduction in testicle size, is often also associated with decreased testicular function.
This problem can be caused by various factors. Among the most common are: hormonal imbalances, infections, trauma, and finally, the use of certain substances.
This topic raises many doubts and concerns for men, especially regarding the impact on sexual health and reproductive function.
In today’s text, we will explore how the reduction in testicle size can affect the production of hormones and sperm in detail.
Moreover, we will also discuss the treatment options available, including medical interventions and lifestyle changes, which can help reverse or minimize the effects of the condition. Follow along!
What is testicular atrophy?
Testicular atrophy not only causes a reduction in testicle size but also a loss of their functionality.
The testicles are responsible for the production of sperm and the hormone testosterone, both essential for fertility and the maintenance of male sexual health.
When testicular atrophy occurs, the production of these elements becomes unsatisfactory, leading to unpleasant consequences.
What are the causes of testicular atrophy?
The causes of testicular atrophy are varied and need to be analyzed individually, according to the overall health of the patient.
The condition can affect just one of the testicles, being unilateral, or bilateral, affecting both. The impact on male health can vary according to the extent of the problem and the underlying cause of the atrophy itself.
Among the main known causes are:
- Hormonal imbalances;
- Infections (such as mumps, for example);
- Autoimmune diseases;
- Varicocele (dilation of testicular veins);
- Physical traumas;
- Prolonged use of anabolic steroids;
- Exposure to certain medications or toxic substances.
Can the use of anabolic steroids cause testicular atrophy?
One of the main known causes of testicular atrophy is the use of anabolic steroids.
To understand better how this can happen: anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that process testosterone, which is the main male sexual hormone.
When administered in high doses, they can interfere with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which is the system responsible for regulating hormonal production in the body.
The hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary to release luteinizing hormones (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH).
These hormones, in turn, stimulate the testicles to produce testosterone and sperm.
However, when a man uses anabolic steroids, the elevated levels of synthetic testosterone in the body cause the hypothalamus and pituitary to reduce or cease the production of GnRH, LH, and FSH.
Without these hormones, the testicles receive less stimulation to produce testosterone and sperm, ultimately leading to testicular atrophy.
It’s important to note that using anabolic steroids without medical supervision can also cause other serious issues, such as infertility, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, and cardiovascular problems.
What are the main symptoms?
Like any medical condition, the symptoms of atrophy can vary depending on the cause and severity of the problem. In addition to the reduction of the testicles themselves, learn some of the main warning signs:
- Infertility (reduced sperm production);
- Reduced libido;
- Erectile dysfunction or sexual impotence;
- Decrease in muscle mass;
- Fatigue;
- Depression or mood changes;
- Reduction in bone density;
- Decreased growth of facial, body, and pubic hair;
- Development of breast tissue (gynecomastia) in men;
- Testicular pain or discomfort.
Can testicular atrophy be a symptom of testicular cancer?
Although it’s uncommon, testicular atrophy can, in some cases, be a symptom of testicular cancer.
Generally, this type of cancer presents with a painless lump or mass in the testicle. However, in certain situations, a reduction in size may occur.
This can happen due to damage to the testicular tissue by the tumor, or even as a response to other conditions associated with cancer.
When to seek medical help
Seeking medical help is crucial for accurate and early diagnosis, in order to avoid further complications.
If a patient notices a reduction in testicle size, pain or discomfort, lumps, infertility, or other symptoms listed here, it is essential to seek help.
Can someone with testicular atrophy have children?
Reproductive capacity for someone with testicular atrophy depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause.
As sperm and hormone production may be affected, it is also true that it can influence fertility. Depending on the case, testicular atrophy may cause impotence.
How is the diagnosis made?
The diagnosis of testicular atrophy involves a clinical evaluation of the patient, linked with physical exams and laboratory tests. Learn how the process goes:
- Medical history and symptoms;
Physical examination; - Testicular ultrasound;
- Blood tests to measure hormone levels, including testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prolactin;
Semen analysis (when necessary); - Testicular biopsy (when necessary);
- Hormonal and genetic evaluation.
In some cases, especially if there is suspicion of genetic or hormonal conditions, additional tests such as genetic mutation analysis may be performed.
Is testicular atrophy curable? Can it be reversed?
The possibility of curing or reversing testicular atrophy depends on the severity and causes. If the patient has been using anabolic steroids, for example, discontinuing use may allow for partial or total recovery of the testicles over time.
Additionally, hormonal treatments may be necessary to stimulate the natural production of testosterone.
Surgical correction of varicocele, a condition where veins within the scrotum are dilated, can improve testicular function and increase sperm production.
In cases of hormonal imbalances, there are also very simple treatments that, if well indicated, show significant results.
If the atrophy results from severe or prolonged damage, complete recovery may not be possible, but medical interventions can help maximize remaining function.
What are the recommended treatments?
For each case, there is an appropriate form of treatment. Among the main options available are:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT);
- Lifestyle changes;
- In cases of varicocele or other physical conditions, surgery may be an option to improve testicular function;
Assisted reproduction techniques.
How to prevent the problem?
Although it is not possible to prevent testicular atrophy in some cases, it is feasible to minimize the risks. This involves adopting healthy habits and preventive measures to avoid some causes. Here are some tips:
- If you identify any inflammation or infection (such as orchitis), seek a doctor to prevent the problem from worsening and treat it as quickly as possible;
- Keep your vaccinations up to date (in this case, especially the vaccine against mumps);
- Do not use anabolic steroids: they can cause hormonal imbalances and harm not only the testicles but many other aspects of male health;
- If you have been diagnosed with varicocele, do not wait to treat it. Consult a doctor for assessment and to carry out the appropriate treatment, which may involve surgery, when necessary;
- Avoid testicular traumas. It is possible to protect the testicles against injuries using appropriate protection equipment during sports and physical activities that present this risk;
- Undergo medical exams regularly to monitor reproductive health and detect abnormalities;
- Controlling chronic conditions and autoimmune diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, is extremely important for reproductive health;
- Monthly testicular self-exams are also useful. Assess monthly if your testicles have undergone changes in size, shape, or texture;
- Finally, adopt healthier habits. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important to keep your health always in check.
If you are concerned because you have identified any of the symptoms of testicular atrophy such as reduced testicle size, pain, discomfort, or fertility issues, seek guidance from a urologist for an accurate diagnosis and assertive recommendation on the appropriate treatment.
Schedule a pre-analysis today with urologist Dr. Paulo Egydio and take the first step to recover your quality of life!
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