My husband has a pituitary gland problem called "gigantism." He has to take depotestosterone shots in order to halt his growing. Two of his brothers have it (all blond like him) and three brothers do not (dark- haired). All of his brothers have children, but he cannot. Does this condition make some men unable to father children and others not, or is it likely that he has a different problem affecting his fertility? If it is his medical condition interfering, would it be permanent?

Bec

Gigantism, or acromegaly, is condition caused by a tumor of the pituitary gland that produces too much growth hormone. It can be treated by surgery, radiation or a new medication called ocreotide. Familial cases such as that of your husband's family have been reported. Research efforts are hoping to identify the gene that causes this problem. (It would be very helpful if his physician could contact the appropriate researchers so genetic studies could be performed to help pinpoint the specific genetic defect.)

Frequently, testosterone levels are low in men with acromegaly. The use of hCG injections can bring the testosterone level back into the normal range in most men. I am not familiar with the practice of giving extra testosterone to bring the levels above normal to suppress bone growth. But certainly if the testosterone level is too high, sperm production can be halted.

Studies have shown that treatment can restore fertility. A discussion with a medical endocrinologist to discuss the appropriate medical or surgical options for your husband may enable him to regain his fertility.