EUNUCHOIDISM Meaning and
Definition
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Eunuchoidism refers to a medical condition characterized by the inadequate development or absence of male secondary sexual characteristics due to hormonal imbalances or abnormalities. The term "eunuchoid" stems from its association with the castration of eunuchs in ancient times, who typically displayed similar physical traits.
In eunuchoidism, affected individuals may experience delayed or impaired progression of pubertal changes, such as lack of facial or body hair growth, underdeveloped muscles, sparse beard growth, and a high-pitched voice. They may also exhibit a slender physique, long limbs, and a prepubertal appearance even during adulthood. Additionally, eunuchoidism can result in the absence or poor development of the prostate gland and testes.
The condition arises as a result of hormonal imbalances, commonly due to decreased production or action of androgens, the male sex hormones. Androgens, particularly testosterone, play a crucial role in the development of male secondary sexual characteristics during puberty. Causes of eunuchoidism can include genetic disorders, such as Klinefelter syndrome or androgen insensitivity syndrome, as well as certain diseases or conditions that affect hormone production or functioning, including hypogonadism or pituitary gland disorders.
Treatment options for eunuchoidism involve hormone replacement therapy, where testosterone or other androgen supplements are administered to stimulate the development of secondary sexual characteristics, promote muscle mass growth, and enhance bone density. Consulting with an endocrinologist or hormone specialist is typically recommended for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment plan.
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A condition marked by the symptom-complex of eunuchism, due to absence of the internal secretion of the testicles, the glan themselves, however, being present.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for EUNUCHOIDISM
- wunuchoidism
- sunuchoidism
- dunuchoidism
- runuchoidism
- 4unuchoidism
- 3unuchoidism
- eynuchoidism
- ehnuchoidism
- ejnuchoidism
- einuchoidism
- e8nuchoidism
- e7nuchoidism
- eubuchoidism
- eumuchoidism
- eujuchoidism
- euhuchoidism
- eunychoidism
- eunhchoidism
- eunjchoidism
- eunichoidism
Etymology of EUNUCHOIDISM
The word "eunuchoidism" is derived from the combination of two terms: "eunuch" and "oidism".
1. Eunuch: The term "eunuch" comes from the Greek word "eunoukhos", which translates to "bedroom guard". In ancient times, eunuchs were castrated males who were often employed as servants or guards in harems, imperial courts, and religious communities. This term has been used since ancient times to refer to males who have been castrated.
2. -oidism: The suffix "-oid" is derived from the Greek word "oeidēs", meaning "having the appearance of" or "similar to". It is added to the end of another word to create a new word describing something that resembles or appears like the original word.
