Hypothalamic Hypogonadism in Hemochromatosis: A Case Report

Abstract

A 42-year-old man developed hypogonadotropic hypogonadism due to primary hemochromatosis. Endocrine evaluation indicated a hypothalamic defect in the control of gonadotropin secretion. Although cirrhosis was present on liver biopsy, ocher major features of the hemochromatosis syndrome were not manifest. Patients with hemochromacosis arc now being diagnosed at earlier stages of disease. Clinicians should be alert to possible early development of hypothalamopituitary dysfunction and should be prepared co perform derailed endocrinological investigations in such patients.