Reproductive system: male reproductive physiology, spermatogenesis
Physiology · MBBS
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Study notes
A couple can't conceive; semen analysis shows zero sperm (azoospermia). Spermatogenesis needs the full chain: hypothalamus → GnRH → pituitary FSH/LH → Sertoli nursing + Leydig testosterone → 64–72 days of sperm maturation. Azoospermia means breakage anywhere — blocked ducts (vasectomy, infection), testicular failure (mumps, chemo), or hormonal failure. Hormone levels locate the break: high FSH/LH with low testosterone points to the testis itself; low everything points to the brain. The workup follows the physiology.
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