[Macroorchidism: a case report]

An Pediatr (Barc). 2006 Jan;64(1):89-92. doi: 10.1016/s1695-4033(06)70015-7.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Macroorchidism is a rare condition in children and is usually associated with fragile X syndrome. Other possible etiologies of macroorchidism are long-standing primary hypothyroidism, adrenal remnants in congenital adrenal hyperplasia, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)-secreting pituitary macroadenomas, local tumors, lymphomas, and aromatase deficiency. Bilateral macroorchidism can be a normal variant in adult men. We report the case of an 11.5-year-old boy who was referred to our hospital for evaluation of marked bilateral testicular enlargement in the previous few months. Physical examination revealed a testicular volume larger than 30 ml. Complementary investigations allowed us to rule out all hitherto reported etiologies of bilateral macroorchidism and therefore a diagnosis of idiopathic macroorchidism was established. The increased number of Sertoli cells found on biopsy, without elevated plasma FSH levels, prompted us to speculate about a hypothetical FSH receptor hyperfunction as a possible cause of the exaggerated testicular enlargement in this patient.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Receptors, FSH
  • Sertoli Cells
  • Testicular Diseases / metabolism
  • Testicular Diseases / pathology*

Substances

  • Receptors, FSH