Male Hypogonadism: Effect of Treatment on Genital Growth and Maturity

Abstract

Nine hypogonad adult [male][male] were treated for a period of 4 mos. to 2 1/2 yrs. with methyl testosterone orally, 20-40 mgs. daily at bedtime. Methyl testosterone was a potent substitute for the androgenic hormone of the testes and generally effective at the stimulation of genital growth and maturation. The distinction between genital growth (penile growth) and genital maturation (as revealed by pubic hair thickening) was emphasized as of utmost importance in the establishment of a prognosis of genital growth attainable with androgenic therapy. Production of genital growth was possible only in the absence or partial presence of genital maturation, and was precluded by the presence of full genital maturation as revealed by complete pubic hair thickening.