Alternative Names & Classifications:
Kallmann Syndrome (CLINICAL)
Description
Kallmann syndrome is a form of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism caused by a failure during fetal development. Specifically, the neurons responsible for secreting gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) fail to migrate from the olfactory placode into the hypothalamus. Consequently, the patient lacks both the hormones needed to initiate puberty and the olfactory nerve tracts required to smell.