Male reproductive function in relation with thyroid alterations

Despite the high prevalence of thyroid diseases in the general population, the impact of the latter on male reproductive function has been the subject of only a few well-controlled clinical studies. Hyperthyroidism appears to cause alterations in the sex steroid hormone metabolism as well as in spermatogenesis and fertility. Sperm motility is mainly affected. These abnormalities reverse after restoration of euthyroidism. The effects of hypothyroidism on male reproduction appear to be more subtle than those of hyperthyroidism and reversible. Severe juvenile hypothyroidism may be associated with precocious puberty. Hypothyroidism in adults is associated with disturbances in the sex steroid hormone metabolism as well as infertility, although available data concerning the latter are scarce. Radioiodine (131I) treatment for dfferentiated thyroid cancer may cause transient impairment of testicular function Gonadal damage may be cumulative in those requiring multiple administrations and sperm banking should be considered in such patients.