Male Reproductive Function

This work gives an up-to-date review of the physiology and disease processes associated with the male reproductive system. The first few chapters describe the regulation of the functions of the testis and the integration of its components, germ cells, Sertoli cells and Leydig cells. This is followed by a description of puberty and ageing, and the disorders or dysfunction that may be associated with these physiological processes. Discussions on methods for the diagnosis and treatment of male hypogonadism, male infertility and male sexual dysfunction follow, with detailed descriptions of types of androgen replacement and the benefits and risks of such treatment. The book concludes with the development of male contraception and the possible influence of the environment on the male reproductive system. It represents an amalgamation of the efforts of experts in andrology from all over the world, both in basic cellular/molecular biology as well as in clinical science and practice. This book is suitable for endocrinologists, urologists, general internists, gynaecologists and other students in the field of male reproduction.