Genetic Conditions
There are a handful of genetic conditions that can result in low testosterone. These include Klinefelter’s syndrome, Prader-Will syndrome, and more.
Klinefelter’s syndrome is when a person has an extra X chromosome, making them XXY rather than XY (the typical male chromosome). This causes the body to produce lower amounts of testosterone and develop specific characteristics that are more common among women. For example, men with this condition may have less facial hair or breast tissue than usual, as well as gynecomastia, decreased fertility, and erectile dysfunction.
Other genetic conditions that can result in low testosterone include Prader-Willi syndrome, which causes a decrease in appetite and weight gain. Another one is Kallman’s syndrome, which is characterized by an inability to smell or taste; and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. This affects the body’s ability to produce cortisol and other hormones.
