Young Syndrome

Young syndrome is characterised by the association of obstructive azoospermia with recurrent sinobronchial infections.

Epidemiology

The prevalence is unknown but the syndrome is very rare.

Clinical description

Spermatogenesis is normal but azoospermia results from obstruction of the epididymides by thickened secretions. Respiratory function is usually only mildly impaired but bronchiectasis has been reported.

Etiology

The aetiology is unknown. Despite similarities in symptoms between Young syndrome and cystic fibrosis (CF), several studies have shown that Young syndrome is not associated with mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) gene.

Differential diagnosis

The major differential diagnoses include CF and congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD, see these terms), but sweat-gland and pancreatic function are normal.

Genetic counseling

The syndrome appears to be transmitted as an autosomal recessive trait.

Management and treatment

Patient management involves prompt treatment of sinus and pulmonary infections and fertility treatment options include vasoepididymostomy and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).