Evaluation of Ex Vivo Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Responsiveness of Human Fetal Testis.

Testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs), commonly occurring in males with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, may arise from chronic stimulation of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-sensitive cells in the testes. It is not yet established whether the human fetal testis (HFT) is responsive to ACTH. To investigate this, we cultured HFT tissue with and without ACTH for up to 5 days, and quantified adrenal steroid hormones and expression of adrenal steroidogenic enzymes.

Intra- and interobserver variability of novel magnetic resonance imaging parameters for hip screening and treatment outcomes at age 5 years.

Background: The outcome measure of neonatal hip screening is usually the radiographic acetabular index.

Objective: To assess the feasibility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without sedation and compare the utility of outcome parameters measured from MRI images.

Materials And Methods: The invitation for MRI scanning at 5 years of age was incorporated into follow-up for babies who had more than one ultrasound examination during treatment or surveillance.

Endocrine disruptors and the male reproductive system.

In recent years, there has been an increased incidence in several of the most common reproductive disorders, including hypospadias and cryptorchidism in newborns, and testicular cancer and lower sperm quality in young adult males. In addition, the timing of puberty has also changed over time. Although the cause of these reproductive effects is a matter of intense debate, a link with the presence of ubiquitous compounds in the environment, or the exposure to specific groups of medications during foetal life, has been suggested.