Effect of Liver Cirrhosis on Semen Parameters and Reproductive Hormones

Overview

Normal testicular hormonal and spermatogenic function depends not only on the testis itself, but also on the integrity of the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary. Systemic diseases has been shown to influence male gonadal function in variety of ways, leading to reduced libido, erectile impotence, infertility, osteoporosis, and decreased physical stamina and muscle mass. The effect of systemic diseases may occur directly at the testicular level: reduced Leydig cell function will lead to androgen deficiency, while diseases affecting Spermatogenesis may lead to infertility. Alternatively, acute and chronic illness may interfere with the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and lead to reduced testicular function.

Liver is thoroughly involved in proteins, cytokines and interleukins synthesis and destruction. Therefore, abnormal function of endocrine organs is expected in patients with liver cirrhosis. Hypogonadism is a frequent clinical feature in patients with liver cirrhosis. These patients have gynecomastia, decreased libido, signs of feminization, testicular atrophy and low testosterone level, as well as reduced Spermatogenesis. These features are more severe in patients with higher Child Pugh score. Several hormonal abnormalities are responsible for these clinical alterations. Estrogen/androgen ratio has been increased in cirrhosis while there is reduction in serum testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone level. Hyperprolactinemia is present in patients with cirrhosis and may involve in Hypogonadism by an inhibitory effect on gonadotropins.

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Interventions