Maturation arrest


Definition

  • Cessation of germ cell development beyond a specific stage in spermatogenesis. The arrest is most frequently observed at primary spermatocyte, rarely spermatogonial, secondary spermatocyte, or spermatid level.

Clinical features

Epidemiology

  • Can be idiopathic

  • May have genetic etiologies including trisomy (XYY), balanced autosomal anomalies (translocations, inversions) or deletions in the Y chromosome (Yq11)

  • Can be secondary to:

    • post-pubertal gonadotrophin deficiency

    • varicocele

    • cryptorchidism

    • exogeneous glucocorticoids

    • diabetes mellitus

    • hypothyroidism

    • vitamin A/zinc deficiencies

    • chemotherapy or radiotherapy

    • exposure to environmental toxins or heat

    • general diseases (liver or kidney insufficiency, sickle cell anemia)

    • infections

You're Reading a Preview

Become a Clinical Tree membership for Full access and enjoy Unlimited articles

Become membership

If you are a member. Log in here