In the management of pubertal gynecomastia, which hormone levels would be suppressed in cases related to anabolic steroids?

In cases of pubertal gynecomastia related to anabolic steroids, the suppression of LH and FSH (luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone) occurs as a direct consequence of the anabolic steroids' effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Anabolic steroids exert negative feedback on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, reducing the secretion of gonadotropins, which are essential for stimulating testosterone production in the testes.

When testosterone levels increase due to exogenous anabolic steroids, the feedback mechanism leads to the suppression of LH and FSH production. This suppression decreases natural testosterone synthesis and can result in an imbalance in the hormone levels, contributing to conditions like gynecomastia. This condition arises from increased estrogen levels relative to testosterone, often influenced by the aromatization of excess testosterone to estrogen.

Understanding this hormonal interplay is crucial in managing cases of gynecomastia, as it highlights the impact of anabolic steroids on the body's endocrine regulation.