Causes of Delayed Puberty: Top10 Causes in Men

Delayed puberty in men is a condition in which sexual maturation begins later than the average age, typically after the age of 14, due to various causes. Puberty is an important phase of development, for both males and females, physically and emotionally. It marks the onset of sexual maturation and is characterized by various significant changes. For males, changes include body growth, voice deepening, and the development of secondary sexual characteristics. However, not all men experience puberty at the same age. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition in men. Also, I put up a list of the Top 10 Causes of the delay of puberty.

Causes of Delayed puberty

1- Functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

This is a temporary clinical state brought on by different stresses to the body, including chronic illnesses such as severe persistent asthma, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, or ulcerative colitis. It occurs when there is a delay in the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamic neuronal networks that initiate the episodic or pulsatile release of GnRH and activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.

Functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is a common cause of delayed puberty for both males and females. And it is a temporary clinical state. [1]

2- Constitutional delay of puberty

This is a condition where the child is just maturing more slowly than average, and often runs in families. Children with constitutional delay of puberty will eventually go through otherwise normal puberty, just at a late age.

3- Chronic illnesses

Chronic illnesses such as severe persistent asthma, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, or ulcerative colitis can cause delayed puberty due to the stress they place on the body.

4- Disorders of the thyroid or pituitary glands

The thyroid and pituitary glands are responsible for producing hormones that regulate growth and development, including puberty. Disorders of these glands, such as hypothyroidism or pituitary insufficiency, can cause delayed puberty.

5- Malnutrition or undernourishment

Adequate nutrition is essential for proper growth and development, including puberty. Malnutrition or undernourishment can delay the onset of puberty.

6- Genetic conditions

Genetic conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome (XXY) or Turner syndrome (XO) can cause delayed puberty. These conditions are caused by abnormalities in the sex chromosomes and affect the body’s ability to produce or respond to hormones involved in puberty.

7- Exposure to toxins or radiation

Exposure to toxins or radiation can damage the glands responsible for producing hormones involved in puberty, leading to delayed puberty.

8- Certain medications or drugs

Certain medications or drugs, such as chemotherapy or anabolic steroids, can interfere with the body’s ability to produce hormones in puberty, leading to delayed puberty.

9- Emotional or psychological stress

Emotional or psychological stress can interfere with the hormonal signals that trigger puberty, leading to a delay in onset.

10- Idiopathic or unknown causes

In some cases, the cause of delayed puberty may not be identified despite a thorough medical evaluation. This is known as idiopathic or unknown delayed puberty.

Summary

Delayed puberty, a condition where sexual development starts later than usual, can be caused by various factors, including functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, malnutrition, chronic illnesses, and genetic conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome or Turner syndrome. Delay is typically later than 14 years of age. In some cases, the cause of delayed puberty may not be identified. Children with delayed puberty will eventually go through otherwise normal puberty, just at a later age. Treatment options may include hormone therapy or addressing underlying medical conditions.

SOURCES

[1] Delayed Puberty – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
[2] https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/puberty/conditioninfo/causes
[3] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/delayed-puberty
[4] https://www.uptodate.com/contents/approach-to-the-patient-with-delayed-puberty
[5] https://www.webmd.com/children/what-to-know-delayed-puberty
[6] https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2017/1101/p590.html