Dystrophy, Adiposogenital

a disorder associated with impairment of function of the endocrine glands (hypophysis) and diencephalon, characterized by adiposity, retardation of growth, and underdevelopment or atrophy of the gonads and secondary sex characteristics.

Adiposogenital dystrophy is seen with lesions (most often tumors, hemorrhages, or infections) in the region of the sella turcica, hypothalamus, or ventriculus tertius cerebri. Under-development of the genitalia is especially manifest during the period of pubescence. Adiposity in adiposogenital dystrophy gives boys an effeminate appearance and gives girls a more mature look. The condition is accompanied by dizziness, headaches, diminished libido and sexual potency, and impairment of vision. Sometimes there are emotional changes, sudden shifts of mood, reduced ability to concentrate on a single activity, and lessened capacity for memorization. Familial predisposition to the disease is possible. The condition may be treated by surgery, X rays, or hormones; if the dystrophy is of infectious origin the treatment should be specific.