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Horm Metab Res 1972; 4(5): 386-388
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1094040
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© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Reversible Inhibition of Spermatogenesis in Men

R.  Petry , J.  Mauss , J. -G. Rausch-Stroomann , A.  Vermeulen
  • Clinical Research, C.F. Asche, Hamburg 50,
    Department of Dermatology, Klinikum Essen. Ruhr-University, Krankenanstalten Lemgo, Germany,
    Akademisch Ziekenhuis, Gent, Belgium
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Publication History

Publication Date:
07 January 2009 (online)

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Abstract

The administration of a relatively low dose (30 mg/d) of the antiandrogen Cyproterone acetate (CA) was followed by a severe depression of spermatogenesis in five normal males after a period of 7 1/2 to 15 1/2 weeks. Seminal fluid examinations showed a complete restoration of spermatogenesis four to five months after discontinuing therapy. Besides the inhibition of spermatogenesis CA decreased urinary gonadotrophins and plasma-testosterone in all cases.

The inhibition of the testicular function is explained by the antiandrogenic effect of CA on the testes and its influence on gonadotropin release.

Key words

Spermatogenesis - Cyproterone Acetate - Urinary Gonadotrophins - Plasma Testosterone