Abstract
Sex assignment of patients with disorders of somatosexual differentiation is a controversial topic. The aim is to enable the patient to develop a stable gender identity during childhood, adolescence and adulthood. Enormous advances have recently been made in our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of sexual differentiation and it is understood that long-term outcome may depend on the underlying diagnosis. There is increasing evidence that genital development is dependent on the action of androgenic steroids; moreover, both androgens and oestrogens may have an impact on other developing organs including neuronal structures such as the brain. Long-term outcome studies on the various intersexuality disorders are desperately needed in order to establish a basis for evidence-based medicine regarding sex assignment and treatment options. Premature decisions leading to irreversible interventions before an accurate diagnosis has been established must be avoided.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Hormone Research |
Volume | 64 |
Issue number | SUPPL. 2 |
Pages (from-to) | 18-22 |
Number of pages | 5 |
ISSN | 0301-0163 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 11.2005 |
Research Areas and Centers
- Academic Focus: Center for Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM)