Układ Płciowy Męski | Male Reproductive System

Read the case study and complete the whole lesson. Afterward, answer the questions related to the clinical case. This practical exercise will help you apply your newly acquired knowledge to real-world scenarios and improve your critical thinking skills.

Case study:

John Anderson, a 40-year-old male, presents with concerns about changes he’s noticed in his reproductive health. John is in his mid-40s and has a family history of prostate issues. He has a history of high blood  pressure  but is otherwise in good health. John has reported several issues. He has been experiencing difficulties achieving and maintaining an erection. Moreover, He has experienced  persistent  pain in his testicles. His interest in sexual activity has also significantly decreased. To address his concerns Dr. Taylor, a urologist specializing in male reproductive health, was consulted. Dr. Taylor ordered the following diagnostic tests to  assess  John’s hormone levels, examine the testicles and prostate, and evaluate the prostate gland. The diagnostic results showed that John’s hormone levels were below the normal range for his age. The ultrasound showed no abnormalities in the testicles or prostate. The digital rectal exam revealed an enlarged prostate gland. To address John’s issues, Dr. Taylor recommended increasing hormone levels and addressing erectile dysfunction. He also recommended managing the  symptoms  associated with an enlarged prostate and regular monitoring of hormone levels and prostate health.

Upon completing the lesson return to the case study and answer the following questions related to the provided scenario.

  1. What were John’s presenting complaints regarding his reproductive health?John presented with several complaints related to his reproductive health. He mentioned experiencing difficulties in achieving and maintaining an erection. He also expressed concern about a reduction in sexual desire, which was affecting his overall sexual performance and satisfaction. John’s complaints pointed to potential issues in his male reproductive system.
  2. What diagnostic tests were performed to evaluate John’s condition?To evaluate John’s condition, a series of diagnostic tests were conducted: Testosterone Level Assessment: A blood test was carried out to measure John’s testosterone levels. This test is crucial to identify any  hormonal imbalances  that might be contributing to his  symptoms. Low testosterone levels can result in erectile dysfunction and reduced sexual desire.Ultrasound of the Prostate: This procedure allowed to visualize the prostate’s size and structure.Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A digital rectal exam was conducted to physically examine John’s prostate gland. During this examination, a Doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to  assess  the size,  texture, and overall condition of the prostate. The DRE is a standard method to check for any abnormalities, such as tumors or  inflammation, that may affect prostate health.
  3. What is the medical term for a condition where a man has trouble achieving and maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse?The medical term for this condition is “erectile dysfunction” (ED) or “impotence.” Erectile dysfunction is a common condition in which a man has difficulty achieving and sustaining an erection necessary for satisfactory sexual activity. It can be caused by various physical and psychological factors.
  4. How might hormone replacement therapy be used in the management of low testosterone levels?Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be employed to address low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism. In this treatment approach, synthetic testosterone is administered through various methods, including injections,patches, gels, or implantable pellets. The therapy helps increase testosterone levels, thereby alleviating the  symptoms  associated with low testosterone. This includes improved erectile function, enhanced sexual desire, increased muscle mass, and improved mood. However, it’s important to carefully monitor the therapy under a healthcare professional’s guidance to manage potential side effects and risks effectively.

Prefixes for Male Reproductive System:

PrefixMeaningExample
A-Absence of, withoutAsexual (without sexual reproduction)
An-Absence of, withoutAnovulation (lack of ovulation)
Dys-Painful, difficultDysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)
Endo-WithinEndometriosis (growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus)
Peri-SurroundingPerineum (area around the genitals and anus)

Combining Forms for Male Reproductive System:

Combining FormMeaningExample
Cervic/oCervixCervicitis (inflammation  of the cervix)
Colp/oVaginaColposcopy (visual examination of the vagina)
Gynec/oWomanGynecology (study of women’s health)
Hyster/oUterusHysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus)
Oophor/oOvaryOophorectomy (surgical removal of an ovary)

Suffixes for Male Reproductive System:

SuffixMeaningExample
-alPertaining toVaginal (pertaining to the vagina)
-ismConditionPriapism (a prolonged erection)
-genesisFormation, originSpermatogenesis (formation of sperm)
-logyStudy of, scienceAndrology (study of male reproductive health)
-plastySurgical repair or reshapingPhalloplasty (surgical repair of the penis)