An Overview of Testosterone Treatment for Klinefelter Syndrome

Ideally, males with Klinefelter syndrome should begin testosterone treatment as soon as they enter puberty. However, males with Klinefelter syndrome diagnosed in adulthood are also likely to benefit from the hormone. A regular schedule of testosterone injections will increase strength and muscle size, and promote the growth of facial and body hair.

 

In addition to these physical changes, testosterone injections often bring on psychological changes. As they begin to develop a more masculine appearance, males with Klinefelter syndrome will often have increased self-esteem. Many become more energetic and stop having sudden, angry changes in moods. What is not clear is whether these psychological changes are a direct result of testosterone treatment or are a side benefit of the increased self-confidence that the treatment may bring. As a group, XXY boys tend to experience depression, principally because of their scholastic difficulties and problems fitting in with other males their age. Sudden, angry changes in mood are typical in depressed people.

 

Other benefits of testosterone as a treatment for Klinefelter syndrome may include decreased need for sleep, an enhanced ability to concentrate, and improved relations with others.