BACKGROUND: There is conflicting evidence in the literature on the etiology of hypogonadism in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD).  Aim: Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effect of SCD on the gonadal function in these patients and determine whether hypogonadism is primary or secondary action. Methods: The serum levels of gonadotropin–releasing hormone (GnRH), Follicle–stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), dehydrotestosterone (DHT) and prolactin (PRL) were estimated in 50 sickle cell disease men and 50 age matched control subjects.

Results: our results showed significantly lower mean values of GnRH, T and DHT and higher mean values of FSH, LH and PLN in SCD patients than in control subjects.

Conclusion: The present results suggest that the sickle cell gene abnormality has an adverse effect on endocrine functions of the testis.The secretion of GnRH is inhibited by high levels of PCL