Primary hypogonadism results when testicular cells do not produce testosterone. Men with this disorder fail to develop a beard and body hair, masculine musculature, adult-size genitals, libido or sexual potency. Secondary hypogonadism occurs when the pituitary gland fails to produce enough hormones to stimulate the testes to release testosterone.
Men can also develop hypogonadism. Due to an accident, illness, or medical treatment that damages the testes or pituitary gland they lose their ability to produce sufficient testosterone to maintain their libido or sexual potency, and sometimes their secondary sex characteristics.
The usual treatment of hypogonadism is a dosage of testosterone every week via a patch or injection.