Increased testosterone in a girl child. Increased testosterone levels in men - ways to normalize hormone levels

Considered tall for men, women and children? We will study the symptoms, causes and consequences that may occur when the hormone levels in the blood increase.

Elevated testosterone – values ​​above normal

Testosterone levels - in men and women - are measured using special tests that allow you to estimate how total concentration, and indicators free or active testosterone.

Testosterone in the blood is found in two forms: free and protein-bound.

Free testosterone is a biologically active form that can interact with receptors for almost all tissues of our body.

Testosterone bound to protein(accounts for 98% of the total concentration in men and 99% in women), represents the majority of the hormone circulating in the blood.

Proteins are necessary to create a balance between free and total hormone levels. In practice, proteins ensure that there is only 1-2% active testosterone in the blood, regardless of glandular production.

As a rule, there is no clear boundary elevated testosterone levels, but the guidelines point to:

Testosterone is a hormone produced by the gonads and, to a lesser extent, by the adrenal glands. The glands secrete testosterone under the stimulation of another hormone, LH, which is a product of the pituitary gland (a gland in the brain), which in turn depends on the release of hormones by the hypothalamus (the area of ​​the brain located directly above the pituitary gland).

Under normal conditions, the hypothalamus regulates the hormonal cascade through simple control of the concentration of testosterone in the blood; if it is low, it stimulates synthesis, and vice versa, if it is high, it limits stimulation.

Symptoms of increased testosterone levels

When testosterone levels significantly exceed the maximum limit, it, of course, enhances the body functions that are regulated by the hormone.

That's why In men, increased testosterone levels occur:

  • increase in muscle mass with muscle hypertrophy;
  • changes in the kidneys and liver;
  • increasing the likelihood of developing mental disorders.

While for women:

  • menstrual irregularities;
  • breast hypotrophy;
  • abnormal muscle development;
  • decrease in voice timbre.

When these conditions occur in acute form, they can easily be compensated. Let us remember that our body has enormous plasticity. But the problem appears when high testosterone levels becomes chronic.

Reasons for increased testosterone levels

A slight increase in testosterone production may be considered physiological state, especially during certain phases of the body’s development, for example, during puberty and adolescence. An increase in the level of testosterone (and androgens, in general) during this period ensures the development of secondary male characteristics, such as hair growth, muscle growth, lowering the tone of voice, etc.

However, there are many pathological conditions which lead to excessive testosterone production:

  • The main one is primary hypergonadism, i.e. increased testosterone production due to overactive gonads or adrenal glands. This pathological condition is usually associated with gonadal tumors, which is accompanied by an increase in the number of Leydig cells (glands involved in the production of testosterone), which are outside the control of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
  • The secondary pathological condition is tumor in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. In this case, regulation in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal feedback axis is disrupted.

Another condition is "self-induced" hypergonadism. Many athletes accepted (and still accept!) anabolic steroids based on androgens. By taking these supplements, you will experience hypergonadism that is very similar to the pathological form.

Consequences of increased testosterone

Problems associated with testosterone hypersecretion depend on age and the presence of chronic diseases.

Prepubertal and pubertal age:

  • (Boy) hirsutism, bone growth, deepening of voice, development of external genitalia, muscle growth.
  • (Girl) hirsutism, bone growth, deepening of voice, development of external genitalia, breast growth, muscle development, bleeding similar to menstruation.
  • Both sexes will experience pseudo-precocious puberty.

In adulthood:

  • (Woman) breast regression, baldness, acne, hirsutism, amenorrhea, disorders of the formation of new bone tissue, blood clotting problems, etc.
  • (Man) acne, hirsutism, azoospermia, gynecomastia, disorders in the formation of new bone tissue, blood clotting problems, etc.

Consequences for a man

  • Acne– is caused by overstimulation of the sebaceous glands (glands in the dermal layer of the skin that secrete fat-based substances called sebum).
  • An increase in testosterone causes cellular response: The body tries to get rid of this excess by converting it into “estrogen,” the female body hormone. Men who use and abuse anabolic steroids experience - in the long term - growing gynecomastia. This occurs due to increased synthesis of estrogen, which stimulates the deposition of adipose tissue at breast level.
  • Myocardial infarction. Testosterone has an anabolic effect and can stimulate muscle growth. The heart is a muscle that must meet certain proportions to work effectively. Myocardial hypertrophy is accompanied by thickening of the heart wall. All this can lead to mild attacks (myocardial infarction, acute IMA).
  • Baldness. In addition to the problems listed above, which should not be underestimated, there is a problem directly related to testosterone levels: baldness. Testosterone is converted at the peripheral level to dihydrotestosterone, a hormone with higher androgenic potency. In some men, the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone occurs more actively than in others. Dihydrotestosterone penetrates the base of the hair follicle and blocks its blood supply, which leads to atrophy and, consequently, limited hair growth. Unfortunately, the drugs used to lower dihydrotestosterone levels and restore hair growth have serious side effects, such as an increase in estrogen and body fat.

Risks for women

  • The most noticeable symptom of rising hormone levels in women is amenorrhea, that is, the absence of menstruation. Other symptoms – baldness And hirsutism. Often this problem is solved pharmacologically, that is, by taking birth control pills (the dose and duration are regulated by the doctor).
  • Testosterone and acne. As already mentioned, increased testosterone levels during adolescence stimulate hypertrophy of the sebaceous glands. Fortunately, as a rule, it is enough to survive this period, and the problem will be solved “by itself.”

Treatment of pathological increase in testosterone

If an increase in testosterone concentration in the blood occurs due to physiological reasons associated with individual stages of life, the problem, as a rule, does not require treatment and resolves “on its own”

In cases of pathological hypergonadism, testosterone levels in the blood can be regulated by taking certain medications, including birth control pills or small quantities corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone.

However, in most cases in which high testosterone concentrations are recorded, the underlying cause should be identified and treated.

But all these functions are guaranteed only with normal levels of the hormone - in the article you will find exact information on how much testosterone should be in the blood of men of different ages and the dangers of excess or decrease in androgen in the blood.

Androgen norm (table)

Testosterone levels can change throughout the day (under the influence of mood, well-being, and even the food a man eats). But it must always remain within the accepted norm - this will be a sign of healthy hormonal levels.

In men of different ages, the rate of free testosterone differs significantly:

  • Boy under 1 year – no more than 3.1 ng/dL
  • Boy 1-7 years old – 0.ng/dL
  • Boy 8-11 years old – 0.04-1.26 ng/dL
  • Boy cell – 0.04-21.8 ng/dl
  • Young man – 5.25-19.8 ng/dl
  • Male – 4.85-17.1 ng/dl
  • Male – 4.26-15.6 ng/dl
  • Male – 4.06-13.9 ng/dl
  • Male – 3.47-12.2 ng/dl
  • Male – 3.08-10.5 ng/dl
  • Man over 85 years old – 2.69-7.91 ng/dL

Natural surge time

In young boys, testosterone levels are not very different from the levels of the hormone in girls their age, so gender differences in behavior are still blurred. With the onset of puberty (the first phase begins after adolescence), there is a natural surge in androgen, which has very characteristic signs.

The first surge of testosterone in boys occurs at age.

The little man's muscle and skeletal systems are rebuilt (they grow quickly, become stronger), and his voice breaks. Character changes (under the influence of testosterone it becomes more hot-tempered, aggressive, desperate). An anatomical change in the genital organs occurs: if up to the age of 7 a boy’s penis length is on average 4 cm, then by the age of 12 the length increases to 7 cm (the increase continues for a year).

The surge in testosterone during puberty is characterized by hair growth in the pubic area, under the arms, on the arms and legs, above the lip and on the chin. Under the influence of androgen, there is an increased secretion of sebum, which provokes the formation of acne on the face (most often acne appears on the nose, you can learn more about them here: http://www.pryschamnet.ru/pryshhi-na-tele/kak-izbavitsya- ot-pryshhej-na-nosu.html).

Puberty occurs in stages:

  • Stage 1 – moderate increase in testosterone.
  • Stage 2 – intensive growth of testosterone.
  • Stage 3 – gradual slowdown in testosterone growth and completion of puberty.

The age data is conditional, a deviation in both directions of 2-3 years is acceptable. The main thing is to support the young man if he is worried that he still does not shave or is not as tall as his peers. But if the delay in puberty is too strong, then it makes sense to consult a doctor; perhaps the lack of testosterone growth is pathological.

Time of natural decline

After about a year, the production of the sex hormone stops, remains at the same level for a couple of years, and then begins to subside. The dynamics of the natural decrease in testosterone is approximately 1-1.5% per year. For the time being, a man does not feel such a decrease, but then the signs become more and more obvious - this is called “male menopause.”

When testosterone levels decrease, a man's stamina deteriorates, problems with potency and weight gain may appear.

An age-related decrease in testosterone manifests itself in baldness, a tendency to gain weight, skin aging, deterioration of stamina, problems with potency, and fertility. If the listed symptoms are too pronounced, then you should get tested for hormones and, if necessary, start taking androgen stimulants (but only as prescribed by a doctor).

Non-age failures

If there is a deviation from the age norm of testosterone, then a full examination should be carried out and the cause should be found out.

Elevated testosterone levels are provoked by:

  • Testicular tumor.
  • Pathology of the adrenal glands.
  • Reifenstein syndrome.
  • Itsenko-Cushing syndrome.

A decrease in testosterone levels is caused by:

  • Chronic depression.
  • Poor nutrition.
  • Long-term poisoning of the body (including drugs, nicotine and alcohol).
  • Injuries, inflammations and tumors of the testes.

If increased androgenicity is not treated, testicular atrophy and impotence develop, and the risk of cancer increases. The danger of low testosterone is that it provokes the development of secondary pathologies: atherosclerosis, diabetes, infertility, heart attack, cancer and prostate adenoma.

CONCLUSION. Testosterone levels in men change throughout life under the influence of various factors. It is important that the fluctuations are within normal limits. A lack or excess of androgen leads to serious illnesses, so it is important to promptly respond to the symptoms of hormonal imbalances and, if necessary, begin treatment.

Why testosterone levels increase and how it affects the body

When are testosterone levels considered high for men, women and children? We will study the symptoms, causes and consequences that may occur when the hormone levels in the blood increase.

Elevated testosterone – values ​​above normal

Testosterone levels - in men and women - are measured using special tests that allow you to evaluate both the total concentration and the levels of free or active testosterone.

Testosterone in the blood is found in two forms: free and protein-bound.

Free testosterone is a biologically active form that can interact with receptors for almost all tissues of our body.

Protein-bound testosterone (98% of the total concentration in men and 99% in women) represents the majority of the hormone circulating in the blood.

Proteins are necessary to create a balance between free and total hormone levels. In practice, proteins ensure that there is only 1-2% active testosterone in the blood, regardless of glandular production.

Generally, there is no clear cutoff for elevated testosterone levels, but guidelines indicate:

  • Total testosterone: >12 nmol/l
  • Free testosterone: >250 nmol/l

Testosterone is a hormone produced by the gonads and, to a lesser extent, by the adrenal glands. The glands secrete testosterone under the stimulation of another hormone, LH, which is a product of the pituitary gland (a gland in the brain), which in turn depends on the release of hormones by the hypothalamus (the area of ​​the brain located directly above the pituitary gland).

Under normal conditions, the hypothalamus regulates the hormonal cascade through simple control of the concentration of testosterone in the blood; if it is low, it stimulates synthesis, and vice versa, if it is high, it limits stimulation.

Symptoms of increased testosterone levels

When testosterone levels significantly exceed the maximum limit, it, of course, enhances the body functions that are regulated by the hormone.

Therefore, in men, increased testosterone levels manifest themselves:

  • increase in muscle mass with muscle hypertrophy;
  • changes in the kidneys and liver;
  • hypercholesterolemia;
  • increasing the likelihood of developing mental disorders.

While for women:

  • menstrual irregularities;
  • breast hypotrophy;
  • abnormal muscle development;
  • decrease in voice timbre.

In both cases, there is an increase in hematocrit, which predisposes to blood clots and cardiovascular problems such as myocardial infarction.

When these conditions occur in acute form, they can easily be compensated. Let us remember that our body has enormous plasticity. But the problem arises when high testosterone levels become chronic.

Reasons for increased testosterone levels

A slight increase in testosterone production can be considered a physiological condition, especially during certain phases of the body's development, such as puberty and adolescence. An increase in the level of testosterone (and androgens, in general) during this period ensures the development of secondary male characteristics, such as hair growth, muscle growth, lowering the tone of voice, etc.

However, there are many pathological conditions which lead to excessive testosterone production:

  • The main one is primary hypergonadism, i.e. increased testosterone production due to overactive gonads or adrenal glands. This pathological condition is usually associated with gonadal tumors, which is accompanied by an increase in the number of Leydig cells (glands involved in the production of testosterone), which are outside the control of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
  • A secondary pathological condition is a tumor in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. In this case, regulation in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal feedback axis is disrupted.

Another condition is “self-induced” hypergonadism. Many athletes took (and still take!) androgen-based anabolics. By taking these supplements, you will experience hypergonadism that is very similar to the pathological form.

Consequences of increased testosterone

Problems associated with testosterone hypersecretion depend on age and the presence of chronic diseases.

Prepubertal and pubertal age:

  • (Boy) hirsutism, bone growth, deepening of voice, development of external genitalia, muscle growth.
  • (Girl) hirsutism, bone growth, deepening of voice, development of external genitalia, breast growth, muscle development, bleeding similar to menstruation.
  • Both sexes will experience pseudo-precocious puberty.

In adulthood:

  • (Woman) breast regression, baldness, acne, hirsutism, amenorrhea, disorders of the formation of new bone tissue, blood clotting problems, etc.
  • (Man) acne, hirsutism, azoospermia, gynecomastia, disorders in the formation of new bone tissue, blood clotting problems, etc.

Consequences for a man

  • Acne– is caused by overstimulation of the sebaceous glands (glands in the dermal layer of the skin that secrete fat-based substances called sebum).
  • An increase in testosterone causes cellular response: The body tries to get rid of this excess by converting it into “estrogen,” the female body hormone. Men who use and abuse anabolic steroids experience - in the long term - increasing gynecomastia. This occurs due to increased synthesis of estrogen, which stimulates the deposition of adipose tissue at breast level.
  • Myocardial infarction. Testosterone has an anabolic effect and can stimulate muscle growth. The heart is a muscle that must meet certain proportions to work effectively. Myocardial hypertrophy is accompanied by thickening of the heart wall. All this can lead to mild attacks (myocardial infarction, acute IMA).
  • Baldness. In addition to the problems listed above, which should not be underestimated, there is a problem directly related to testosterone levels: baldness. Testosterone is converted at the peripheral level to dihydrotestosterone, a hormone with higher androgenic potency. Some men convert testosterone to dihydrotestosterone more rapidly than others. Dihydrotestosterone penetrates the base of the hair follicle and blocks its blood supply, which leads to atrophy and, consequently, limited hair growth. Unfortunately, the drugs used to lower dihydrotestosterone levels and restore hair growth have serious side effects, such as an increase in estrogen and body fat.

Risks for women

  • The most noticeable symptom of rising hormone levels in women is amenorrhea, that is, the absence of menstruation. Other symptoms – baldness And hirsutism. Often this problem is solved pharmacologically, that is, by taking birth control pills (the dose and duration are regulated by the doctor).
  • Testosterone and acne. As already mentioned, increased testosterone levels during adolescence stimulate hypertrophy of the sebaceous glands. Fortunately, as a rule, it is enough to survive this period, and the problem will be solved “by itself.”

Treatment of pathological increase in testosterone

If an increase in the concentration of testosterone in the blood occurs due to physiological reasons associated with certain stages of life, then the problem, as a rule, does not require treatment and resolves “by itself”

In cases of pathological hypergonadism, testosterone levels in the blood can be regulated by taking certain medications, including birth control pills or small amounts of corticosteroids such as dexamethasone.

However, in most cases in which high testosterone concentrations are recorded, the underlying cause should be identified and treated.

The hormone testosterone makes a man a man

What testosterone is is known to everyone who considers themselves male. It is a hormone responsible for the development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics. It is worth noting that this hormone is also present in the female body, but in much smaller quantities.

When considering such a concept as hormone level, it is necessary to take into account that the overall indicator is the sum of the amount of bound and free hormone. In percentage terms, it looks like this: 2% - testosterone in an unbound state, 44% - bound by globulin, 54% - bound to albumin and other proteins.

Low testosterone levels: diagnosis and consequences

Free testosterone determines the intensity of development of secondary symptoms and sexual desire. Its level, which falls below the permissible norm, leads to a number of deviations, which include lowering the torpedo and impotence, bone and muscle degradation, disturbances of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and the development of cardiac diseases.

In the body, testosterone has extremely important functions:

  • formation of mental and behavioral characteristics according to the male type;
  • regulation of seminal fluid production;
  • increased sexual desire;
  • increase in skin thickness;
  • increased protein synthesis;
  • increased metabolic rate;
  • strengthening the pelvic bones;
  • accumulation of calcium in bones;
  • an increase in the number of red blood cells;
  • increased activity of sweat glands.

You can determine the presence of a sufficient hormonal level by external signs: narrow hips and broad shoulders will certainly indicate that this is a man with a sufficient level of the hormone. To make a lyrical digression, testosterone is what makes a man a man.

You can diagnose testosterone levels at home, adjusting for the relativity of methods. Bend the fingers of your left hand so that they form a right angle with your palm. Take a close look at the length of your fingers: if your ring finger is visually longer than your index finger, you can say that you have been given low hormonal levels by heredity. Otherwise, we can talk about normal and increased levels of the male hormone.

The level of the hormone also determines the rate at which an erection occurs. Watch a pornographic film, try to treat it like a regular film, do not perform physical pressure on the penis. A sufficient level of testosterone in adolescents provokes a response in 4-5 minutes, in boys under 20 years of age, minutes, in men in the age range from 30 to 40 years - 11 minutes, over 40 years in minutes.

Causes of low hormone levels in the male body

Often, low testosterone levels have genetic and age-related roots. After overcoming the age threshold of 30 years, the level of the hormone decreases annually by 1-2%, and after 50 it completely stops and falls into the category of passive.

Alcohol abuse and smoking are the worst enemies of the hormonal system. A number of studies have shown that adolescents with drug addiction have testosterone levels similar to older adults aged 65 years.

Insufficient hormone production is directly related to stressful situations in life, family problems, lack of male emotions and exhaustion of the nervous system. We should not forget about the lifestyle, which in the case of prolonged abstinence, lack of physical activity, obesity, office work or living in an environmentally unfavorable place has the most negative impact on a man’s hormonal background.

The reasons for decreased hormone levels may be hidden in health problems. When blood pressure rises, the body tries to get rid of excess stress and reduces the production of the hormone. A similar result can be obtained with shortness of breath and an increased number of respiratory movements, an excessive number of heart contractions. If high bilirubin levels are diagnosed in the laboratory, it is worth thinking about testosterone. The thing is that bilirubin reduces the production of enzymes that are designed to remove female hormones from the body, as a result they are retained.

The following can contribute to a sharp decrease in the hormone:

  • kidney disease;
  • excess fat deposits;
  • sugar level more than 7 units;
  • osteoporosis;
  • leukocyte level above 4000;
  • increased testicular temperature;
  • high cholesterol.

A number of medications can also reduce testosterone levels. These include painkillers (morphine, codeine), antidepressants, old antipsychotropic drugs (chlorpromazine and haloperidol). Those who have turned to traditional medicine for help should be careful with herbs that increase libido. If taken uncontrolled, they can have the opposite effect.

Symptoms of male hormone deficiency

A low level of the male hormone leads to an increase in the female hormone, so the manifestation has many similarities. Externally, a lack of the male hormone is manifested by a decrease in muscle mass, a decrease in endurance and strength, psychological instability, accompanied by frequent mood swings.

Insufficient testosterone levels are not limited only to external manifestations, it triggers irreversible processes inside the body. Dizziness, fainting, hot flashes, shortness of breath and sweating become constant companions.

Sexual failures that occur during this period further reduce testosterone levels. It should not be surprising that an organized and stable man develops depression, a feeling of depression, forgetfulness and absent-mindedness, and an inability to concentrate. Fatigue and nervous exhaustion are the result of sleep disorders, for which testosterone is also responsible.

Ignoring the need to take action in the future leads to deterioration in motor activity, injuries and osteoporosis, since the thickness and elasticity of cartilage, ligaments and tendons depends on the level of male hormone.

Often, advanced forms of hormonal deficiency provoke pressure surges, which lead to a stroke or heart attack.

If testosterone is in excess

An excess of the hormone is observed in adolescence and is considered normal. However, in later life it can lead to intense hair growth throughout the body, the appearance of acne and more serious consequences, for example, testicular atrophy.

You can reduce testosterone levels with the help of a special diet, which involves giving up meat and including soy and legume products in the diet. High levels of testosterone will help overcome beer, which contains estrogens of plant origin, fatty meats that can convert male testosterone into female estrogens, excess salt and sugar, but please note that the source of glucose needed by the body should be fruits and vegetables, not sweet carbonated drinks.

Androgen deficiency (age-related low levels) of testosterone

This concept refers to the decrease in male hormones associated with natural aging of the body. The description of recurrent changes allows us to conclude that their threshold is the age of 50 years, however, in a number of cases, a man encounters the first signs.

The appearance of androgen deficiency is associated with several theories:

  • With age, the number of Leydig cells in the testicles, responsible for the production of the hormone, decreases. The reasons are associated with a decrease in blood supply and cell nutrition, the development of atherosclerosis and apoptosis - the “programmed” death of these cells;
  • The pituitary gland and hypothalamus are also subject to age-related changes, as a result of which the regulation of the formation of the male hormone is disrupted;
  • Don't forget about genetic predisposition.

The first sign that forces men to consult an andrologist is a weakening or complete disappearance of erection, decreased libido and a decrease in the frequency of sexual fantasies. Added to this list are the accompanying unpleasant changes that occur with a lack of the hormone in young men. Often external manifestations include changes in the skin, the appearance of wrinkles, dryness and sagging, hair loss, and enlarged mammary glands.

Diagnosis of age-related androgen deficiency is carried out by a number of laboratory tests of different fractions of the hormone, globulin, and biochemical blood tests.

Testosterone levels can be increased in case of age-related androgen deficiency using drug replacement therapy. Doctors often prescribe stimulating therapy with human chorionic gonadotropin, the effect of which is aimed at enhancing the synthesis of one’s own male hormone. The description of the drug allows its use by various methods: transdermal, subcutaneous, oral and injection.

Boost Testosterone Levels with the Right Diet

We are what we eat". Our body, each of its systems and the hormone testosterone in particular confirms this. A significant change in its level can be achieved through proper diet. Once a day, be sure to eat meat, which is not only a source of zinc, but also cholesterol - the primary source of testosterone. Egg yolks have a similar effect.

Zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes and celery can act as a source of minerals. The latter, among other things, contains androsterone. What is this? This is a hormone that enhances secondary sexual characteristics. Parsley, cilantro and spinach also increase testosterone levels.

Instructions and recipes for preparing tea based on ginger, golden root, and ginseng allow them to be used as drinks to restore men's health. In the category of cereals, preference should be given to cereals rich in fiber: buckwheat, oats, barley, rice, which increase blood flow to the pelvic organs. You can diversify your diet with dates, prunes, pomegranates, raspberries, and cherries.

Basic dogmas of men's health

Low testosterone levels when treated with direct hormonal drugs can be accompanied by a number of side effects, the most dangerous of which is the suppression of the already low production of one’s own hormone.

If the problem is not physical in nature, improving the psychological climate can give a good result. Try to set achievable goals. Success in this situation is a trigger for the production of the hormone.

Watch your nervous system, do not allow mental exhaustion, which provokes the release of adrenaline and cortisol. These substances, at high concentrations, can completely stop the production of androgens.

Testosterone levels are largely determined by the quality of your sex life. Abstinence is a direct path to congestion and impotence. Exercise for the reproductive system is as important as physical exercise for the musculoskeletal system.

What is the normal level of testosterone in children and adolescents? Causes of hormone level deviations in boys

Testosterone is one of the most important hormones in the human body, the condition of which must be carefully monitored, especially if there is a small man in the family. It is synthesized by the adrenal glands and gonads.

It is testosterone at the stage of intrauterine development that is responsible for the formation of male sexual characteristics, and during puberty, under the influence of testosterone, boys’ voice changes, body hair begins to grow, and muscle mass increases.

How are children tested?

To measure the amount of testosterone, venous blood is taken for analysis. In some cases, urine may also be taken for analysis. Blood is donated on an empty stomach; no other preparatory procedures are required. You can get tested in a clinic or hospital, preferably in the morning, since the highest level is observed from 7-9 o’clock. Before taking the test, the child should avoid excess physical activity.

Normal indicators in boys

Testosterone is measured in nmol/l. The normal level of the hormone in the blood of boys of different ages:

  • Up to 1 year: 0 – 17.10 nmol/l.
  • 1-6 years: 0 – 1.51 nmol/l.
  • 6-11 years: 0.39 – 2.01 nmol/l.
  • 11-15 years: 0.48 – 22.05 nmol/l.
  • 15-18 years: 3.61 – 37.67 nmol/l.

What does it depend on?

There are many factors that influence the production of the main male hormone. There are several most significant points:

  1. Rest. A simple lack of proper rest and lack of healthy sleep can greatly affect the production of the hormone. Lessons at school, attending extra classes and classes take a lot of energy from boys. It is very important to ensure that the child rests, does not overwork and sleeps for at least 7-8 hours.
  2. Deficiency of vitamins and minerals. It's no secret that vitamins and minerals play an important role in our body. They are also very important for the production of hormones. A lack of zinc especially affects testosterone levels, since it is very important for its production.

Symptoms of Imbalance

The decrease, however, as well as the increase in testosterone levels in the body must be monitored, this is especially important for boys, in whose growth and development this hormone plays an important role. Prolonged hormonal imbalance can lead to consequences.

Deviations from the norm can be tracked not only by donating blood for analysis, but also by certain signs that accompany an increase or decrease in the main male hormone.

Low androgen levels

Signs by which you can determine steroid deficiency in the blood:

  • Low testosterone is always accompanied by a loss of strength. If you notice that your child is very tired, then know that the reason for this may be testosterone deficiency.
  • Your child may become irritable and depressed.
  • When hormone levels are low, boys may gain weight. This is due to the fact that the energy intended for muscle growth is not expended.
  • Based on the previous sign, we can identify another one - a decrease in muscle mass.
  • Memory impairment, problems with concentration and thinking.
  • New insomnia and daytime sleepiness.

To prevent low testosterone levels or increase them in a teenager, it is useful for parents to know the reasons why this may happen. Reasons for changes in testosterone levels in a child:

  1. Hereditary predisposition.
  2. Lack or low physical activity.
  3. Side effect from medications.
  4. Living in places with unhealthy ecology.
  5. Stress, psychological tension.
  6. Unhealthy Lifestyle.

Increased hormonal levels

If the level of steroid is increased in the body of a teenager, then first of all it will greatly affect the character of the child. Usually, when the hormone is elevated, boys become hyperactive.

Irritability, aggressiveness, risk-taking - all this indicates that your child has an excess of androgen.

The same changes in behavior can be observed in athletes who take drugs to increase hormone levels to achieve good results.

There are several reasons for the increase in hormones in boys:

  • Precocious puberty caused by activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary gland.
  • Premature puberty caused by pathology of the genital organs (tumor of the testicles, adrenal glands).

Specialist help

If you suspect that a boy's testosterone levels are abnormal, get his blood tested. If the tests show any abnormalities, then immediately take the child for consultation with a specialist.

Any hormonal disorder leads to unpleasant consequences, especially for hormones such as testosterone. An endocrinologist deals with hormonal imbalances. It is he who will be able to identify the cause of the disorder and prescribe the correct course of treatment.

The health of boys largely depends on testosterone. Parents should remember this and understand the importance of this hormone. Raising a small man is not easy, but by paying due attention, noting all changes in behavior and appearance, you will be able to promptly identify problems in the child’s body and consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Topic: Testosterone tests in a teenager

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Testosterone tests in a teenager

At the age of 6 years, a diagnosis of proboscis phimosis was made and the foreskin was circumcised. Around the same age, he began to gain weight, female-type plumpness. The endocrinologist recommended diet and exercise for weight loss. A diagnosis of micropenia was made; the testicles were normal. Regular sports (basketball, wrestling) did not produce results. At the age of 10, I was examined at the endocrinology department by the head. After passing the tests, the verdict: diet and exercise alone will not help your case, you need treatment. Over the course of two years, 2 courses of human chorionic gonadotropin injections were administered. As a result, a male body type began to develop, the shoulders became wider, the penis became longer, the penis grew noticeably (compared to what it was, which was barely 2 cm), pubic hair appeared, a few hairs appeared in the armpits, and the skin of the scrotum darkened.

Now at 13 years old, height is 174 cm, weight is 75 kg. But again there was a tendency towards weight gain. Testosterone tests: total 11.2 nmol/l, free 5.25 pg/ml.

Are these normal indicators for a 13 year old boy? Tell me, what examination and observation tactics would you recommend in the future?

I am not certified as a pediatrician.

The patient's testosterone level corresponds to the lower norm of an adult male (I hope this is his own testosterone, and not stimulated by human chorionic gonadotropin).

Testosterone is a hormone that is produced in the male genitals. During a boy's puberty (ages 9 to 14), the body begins to produce more of this hormone, which leads to the development of secondary sexual characteristics: the voice becomes lower, muscle mass increases, facial hair begins to grow, Adam's apple enlarges, etc. . In the body of some adolescents, these changes begin somewhat later than in their peers. In most cases, the timing of the onset of puberty is determined by genetic (hereditary) factors. However, there are other reasons such as malnutrition, physical injury and certain diseases that can delay the maturation of a boy's body. Using natural methods, it is possible to stimulate the production of testosterone in a teenager’s body, and only in some cases will hormone therapy be needed to stimulate sexual development and its completion. In the third part of this article you will find recommendations on when and what means will be useful for a teenager.


Attention: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare professional before using any medications or dietary supplements.

Steps

Part 1

Stimulation of testosterone production

    Lose weight if you are overweight. A number of studies have found a correlation between overweight (specifically obesity) and low testosterone levels in both adult men and adolescents. A study of significantly overweight men found that losing weight often stimulates a natural increase in testosterone production.

    • During adolescence, limiting your intake of simple sugars (such as refined sugar and high fructose corn syrup) is essential to maintaining a healthy weight. Try to exclude sugary carbonated drinks, donuts, cakes, pastries, butter cookies, ice cream and other sweets from your daily diet. Occasionally, for example, at the holiday table, you can treat yourself to these delicacies.
    • Instead of junk foods, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, fish and low-fat dairy products. Instead of sugary drinks, drink still water and low-fat milk.
    • Make your favorite dishes healthier. If you like mac and cheese, use whole wheat macaroni and add some zucchini puree. When making pizza, use whole wheat dough and toppings with plenty of vegetables and some low-fat cheese. Make burgers and stews from turkey or chicken and skip the beef.
    • Cardiovascular exercise is another important component of weight loss. Walking for 30 to 45 minutes in the evening will help you lose weight, as long as you eat right. Swimming and cycling are also useful for cardiovascular exercise.
  1. Add intense short-term training. Walking daily is good for weight loss, but intense sports training (such as football, swimming or weightlifting) directly stimulates testosterone production. However, the duration of the workout and its intensity are key. It has been proven that short-term intense training (especially weightlifting) has a positive effect on testosterone levels and also prevents its decline in adolescents and middle-aged men. Thus, try to keep your workouts short (no more than 30 minutes), very intense, but also safe for your health. Longer, less intense workouts (60 minutes or longer) have the opposite effect in some cases and lead to lower testosterone levels in men and teenage boys.

    • Remember the general rule: the greater the increase in muscle mass stimulated by exercise, the more testosterone is produced in the body. Leg presses and squats (loaded) are particularly effective exercises for helping stimulate testosterone production because they work large muscle groups.
    • The bench press and deadlift are exercises that also promote testosterone production.
    • During adolescence, growth and development of the skeleton and soft tissues continues, so intense strength training should only be performed under the guidance of an experienced trainer.
  2. Make sure you get regular, good sleep. Chronic lack of adequate sleep leads to a significant decrease in the amount of testosterone in both adult men and adolescents, which, in turn, slows down muscle development and provokes the accumulation of fatty tissue. Research has found a direct correlation between the amount of sleep and testosterone levels in men in the morning. In men in particular, testosterone levels increase in the morning depending on the duration of sleep at night. Experts advise getting at least seven hours of sleep, and nine hours of sleep is recommended for teenagers to get proper rest.

    • Try not to consume stimulants (caffeine, alcohol) at least eight hours before going to bed. Caffeine increases brain activity and thereby prevents a person from falling asleep. Alcohol prevents the brain from falling into deep sleep.
    • Keep in mind that caffeine is found in colas, energy drinks, coffee, black tea and chocolate.
    • Create a calm, relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom and make sure it is dark. All this will help you get a good night's sleep. Always turn off your computer and TV when you go to bed.
  3. Forget about the prejudice against natural fats. Many people believe that fats are only harmful and should be completely eliminated from the diet, especially in teenagers who are overweight. In fact, natural fats and cholesterol obtained from animal products (meat, eggs and milk) are necessary for the production of sex hormones, in particular testosterone. Including moderate amounts of saturated and unsaturated fats in your daily diet is unlikely to lead to excess weight. Excess carbohydrates and artificial trans fats are the real culprits of obesity. In fact, some studies show that a low-fat diet lowers testosterone levels in men and also leads to other growth and development problems in adolescents. Research shows that a diet that derives less than 40% of its energy from fat leads to lower testosterone levels.

    • Some examples of healthy foods that contain high amounts of monounsaturated (vegetable) fats include almonds, walnuts, natural peanut butter, avocado and olive oil.
    • Healthy foods that contain saturated (cholesterol-based) fats include lean red meat, seafood, egg yolks, cheese, coconut oil, and dark chocolate high in cocoa butter.
    • Don't forget that the body needs cholesterol to synthesize testosterone. Therefore, you need to consult your doctor and find out what is normal blood cholesterol level for a teenager. As you grow older, your body needs more cholesterol than the normal average.
  4. Reduce your stress levels. Stress is a ubiquitous phenomenon in the modern world, especially among teenagers, who daily face various forms of social pressure and expectations from others. High levels of stress lead to the release of the stress hormone, cortisol, which normally counteracts the negative effects of stress on the physiology of the body. No one disputes the importance of cortisol's functions, but it should be noted that this hormone blocks the work of testosterone in the body and prevents its effects. This can cause very serious problems in a teenager's body. If you are the parent of a teenager, try to create a calm living space for him and reduce stress levels. A teenager needs to vent anger and other emotions from time to time. Physical activity, sports, or a fun hobby are great for reducing stress.

    • If the stress is so severe that you are unable to cope with it on your own, do not hesitate to seek help from a psychologist or psychotherapist. Some therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, are very effective in helping to cope with stress, anxiety and depression.
    • Popular ways to reduce stress also include meditation, tai chi, yoga, and breathing exercises.

Part 2

Include certain nutrients in your diet
  1. Eat enough zinc. Zinc is a chemical element necessary for many functions of the human body, including the effective functioning of the immune system, bone strength and testosterone production. In fact, low zinc levels are directly correlated with low testosterone levels in both adult men and adolescents. In the modern world, many men experience some degree of zinc deficiency in their bodies, so there is a chance that your teenage son’s zinc levels are below normal (especially if he does not adhere to the principles of a healthy diet). To find out for sure, you can contact your doctor and ask for an appropriate blood test. At the same time, try to prepare and serve dishes from zinc-rich foods to the family table: meat, fish, low-fat milk, hard cheeses, beans, as well as some types of nuts and seeds.

    Make sure you get enough vitamin D. This vitamin plays a very important role in the synthesis of testosterone. The important role of vitamin D is due to the fact that its action is more similar to the work of a steroid hormone than to the action of a regular vitamin. In 2010, studies were conducted on the relationship between vitamin D levels and testosterone levels in men. It was found that increased levels of this vitamin in the blood are accompanied by increased testosterone levels. Vitamin D is produced in human skin under the influence of intense solar radiation. However, teenagers now spend very little time outdoors, so in some countries, including the United States, vitamin D deficiency is becoming epidemic. This problem is especially acute in northern regions because for many months of the year, sunlight levels are too low for the skin to receive adequate amounts of vitamin D.

    Take a D-aspartic acid (DAA) supplement. It is believed that this amino acid, which is found in glandular tissue, enhances the production of testosterone and the effect of other hormones on the human body. A 2009 study found that men who received 3,120 mg of D-aspartic acid daily for 12 days experienced an average 42% increase in testosterone levels. The study suggests that DAA plays a key role in regulating the synthesis and release of testosterone in adults, so it likely performs the same functions in adolescents. Another form of aspartic acid is synthesized in the human body and is also found in many foods. As for D-aspartic acid, it is not that common in foods.

Part 3

When to use this or that advice

    Change your diet and exercise if your health allows. Losing weight, eating healthier, and exercising will not only help increase your testosterone levels, but will also benefit your overall health. When it comes to making small lifestyle changes, these are generally safe for teens' health. Regarding drastic changes, be sure to consult with your doctor and make sure that in your particular case these measures will benefit and not harm.

    Take dietary supplements if your levels are low. Low levels of zinc and vitamin D in the body often lead to low testosterone levels in adolescents, so increasing the amount of these substances in the diet or taking appropriate nutritional supplements will help increase testosterone levels. If the level of these substances in the body is normal, you need to carefully weigh everything before you start taking dietary supplements.

  1. Before using any natural method to increase testosterone, be sure to consult your doctor. Although most non-drug ways to increase testosterone are quite safe for teenagers, you should still consult a doctor if you are concerned about whether your testosterone levels are within the normal range for your age.

    • Keep in mind that the age of puberty and its speed vary from person to person, so don't panic if you think your testosterone levels are lower than those of your peers.
    • If you are worried about this, your doctor will order a blood test to determine if the level of testosterone in your body is much lower than normal. Many doctors understand that the patient wants to solve the problem using natural remedies, and take this into account when creating a treatment plan. If the doctor comes to the conclusion that drug treatment (including prescription testosterone drugs) would be more beneficial in your case, he will definitely tell you about it.
  2. Be very careful with other methods of increasing testosterone. There are a large number of herbal preparations on the market, the manufacturers of which promise to solve the problem of low testosterone. However, such drugs can significantly harm health, especially if taken by a teenager. Take only those products that are recommended by official medicine. If they don't help you, ask your doctor to recommend other methods.

    • Although D-aspartic acid preparations are considered conditionally safe for adolescents, there are clearly insufficient studies to fully assess the effect of this substance, especially in the body of a teenager. If you want to take such supplements, be sure to ask your doctor for advice.
    • Do not take testosterone or other steroid hormones without a doctor's prescription. In addition, herbal supplements that promise to increase testosterone have, for the most part, not been medically tested, and taking them can only be harmful, especially for a teenager during puberty.
  • Do not take testosterone or other steroid supplements (especially anabolic steroids) unless you have been diagnosed and treated by a doctor. Uncontrolled use of steroid supplements can cause serious side effects and harm your health.
  • ,Portugues: Aumentar Naturalmente os Níveis de Testosterona Em Adolescentes Français: augmenter naturellement son taux de testostérone (pour les adolescents), Deutsch: Testosteronwerte bei männlichen Teenagern auf natürliche Weise steigern,Bahasa Indonesia: Meningkatkan Testosteron secara Alami (Remaja Pria)

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Testosterone makes men perform “masculine actions”, stimulates sexual activity, forms a strong body, rewards them with a brutal beard or hairy chest, and provides offspring. But all these functions are guaranteed only with normal levels of the hormone - in the article you will find exact information on how much testosterone should be in the blood of men of different ages and the dangers of excess or decrease in androgen in the blood.

Androgen norm (table)

Testosterone levels can change throughout the day (under the influence of mood, well-being, and even the food a man eats). But it must always remain within the accepted norm - this will be a sign of healthy hormonal levels.

In men of different ages, the rate of free testosterone differs significantly:

  • Boy under 1 year – no more than 3.1 ng/dL
  • Boy 1-7 years old – 0.04-011 ng/dl
  • Boy 8-11 years old – 0.04-1.26 ng/dL
  • Boy 11-14 years old – 0.04-21.8 ng/dL
  • Young man 15-17 – 5.25-19.8 ng/dl
  • Male 18-21 – 4.85-17.1 ng/dl
  • Male 22-55 years old – 4.26-15.6 ng/dL
  • Male 56-65 – 4.06-13.9 ng/dl
  • Male 66-75 years old – 3.47-12.2 ng/dL
  • Male 76-85 years old – 3.08-10.5 ng/dL
  • Man over 85 years old – 2.69-7.91 ng/dL

Natural surge time

In young boys, testosterone levels are not very different from the levels of the hormone in girls their age, so gender differences in behavior are still blurred. With the onset of puberty (the first phase begins after 11-14 years), there is a natural surge in androgen, which has very characteristic signs.

The first surge of testosterone in boys occurs between the ages of 11 and 14 years.

The little man's muscle and skeletal systems are rebuilt (they grow quickly, become stronger), and his voice breaks. Character changes (under the influence of testosterone it becomes more hot-tempered, aggressive, desperate). An anatomical change in the genital organs occurs: if up to the age of 7 a boy’s penis length is on average 4 cm, then by the age of 12 the length increases to 7 cm (the increase continues until 18-21 years).

Puberty occurs in stages:

  • Stage 1 11-14 years – moderate increase in testosterone.
  • Stage 2 14-18 years – intensive growth of testosterone.
  • Stage 3 18-21 years - gradually slowing down the growth of testosterone and completing puberty.

The age data is conditional, a deviation in both directions of 2-3 years is acceptable. The main thing is to support the young man if he is worried that he still does not shave or is not as tall as his peers. But if the delay in puberty is too strong, then it makes sense to consult a doctor; perhaps the lack of testosterone growth is pathological.

Time of natural decline

Around the age of 25-30, the production of the sex hormone stops, remains at the same level for a couple of years, and then begins to subside. The dynamics of the natural decrease in testosterone is approximately 1-1.5% per year. For the time being, a man does not feel such a decrease, but then the signs become more and more obvious - this is called “male menopause.”

When testosterone levels decrease, a man's stamina deteriorates, problems with potency and weight gain may appear.

An age-related decrease in testosterone manifests itself in baldness, a tendency to gain weight, skin aging, deterioration of stamina, problems with potency, and fertility. If the listed symptoms are too pronounced, then you should get tested for hormones and, if necessary, start taking androgen stimulants (but only as prescribed by a doctor).

Non-age failures

If there is a deviation from the age norm of testosterone, then a full examination should be carried out and the cause should be found out.

Elevated testosterone levels are provoked by:

  • Testicular tumor.
  • Pathology of the adrenal glands.
  • Reifenstein syndrome.
  • Itsenko-Cushing syndrome.

A decrease in testosterone levels is caused by:

  • Chronic depression.
  • Poor nutrition.
  • Long-term poisoning of the body (including drugs, nicotine and alcohol).
  • Injuries, inflammations and tumors of the testes.

If increased androgenicity is not treated, testicular atrophy and impotence develop, and the risk of cancer increases. The danger of low testosterone is that it provokes the development of secondary pathologies: atherosclerosis, diabetes, infertility, heart attack, cancer and prostate adenoma.

CONCLUSION. Testosterone levels in men change throughout life under the influence of various factors. It is important that the fluctuations are within normal limits. A lack or excess of androgen leads to serious illnesses, so it is important to promptly respond to the symptoms of hormonal imbalances and, if necessary, begin treatment.

A study of sex hormones revealed deviations in the form of a decrease in 11.8% and an increase in 35.3% of athletes in testosterone levels. These were boys 14 and 17 years old, and both were ahead of their peers in physical development, and their testosterone levels were within normal age limits.

Please tell me whether this is very dangerous and what to do to increase testosterone. Testosterone 2.28, TSH 1.9, T4 St 25.8. Since 2012, they received 4 courses of granodotropin. Disorders of sexual development in boys are associated with pathology of the secretion or action of androgens. After 6 weeks of development, sexual differences appear in differentiation.

By birth, this process is completed in 97% of full-term boys and in 79% of premature ones. Further, the concentration of FSH and LH, as well as testosterone, drops to extremely low values. During the pubertal stage, testosterone synthesis in the testicle is activated. First, at 7-8 years old, the level of androgens in the blood increases due to the adrenal glands (adrenarche).

Sexual development in boys - norm and deviations

This increases the levels of GnRH, LH and FSH. These hormones affect the testicle, increasing testosterone production. Familial forms of delayed sexual development can be corrected with testosterone courses. The use of hormones from the hypothalamic-pituitary region stimulates the development of the testicles and increases the level of testosterone.

Normal onset of puberty and determination of its delay

Testosterone is the most important androgen circulating in the blood. The concentration of testosterone in the blood increases during exercise and decreases when glucose enters the body. A study of venous blood was carried out to determine the content of hormones - testosterone, FSH, inhibin B, as well as the level of antisperm antibodies.

Stages of differentiation of the reproductive system

Analysis of testosterone levels in the examined teenage boys involved in sports showed that its level changed ambiguously. In 10 of them (35.7%), disharmonious development was revealed in the form of high growth and excess body weight. In 5 out of 6 children, decreased inhibin B levels were combined with decreased testosterone levels.

Pre-pubertal period

Often parents (sometimes the children themselves) turn to doctors - pediatricians, therapists, urologists, endocrinologists - with complaints about a delay in the development of the genital organs relative to their peers.

In approximately 90% of cases, the examination reveals that there is no delay in sexual development in the child (teenager, young man). Before talking about disorders of sexual development in boys, it is necessary to determine what is their statistical norm and determine the age dynamics of these indicators. Apparently, both the decrease in the gonadotropic function of the pituitary gland and obesity in these boys are caused by primary, often functional changes in the hypothalamus.

Hello. The testosterone norm for this age starts at 0.39. However, this does not mean that the child is sick. The analysis is quite capricious. If you do not understand my answer or have additional questions, write in the comments to your question and I will try to help. Medical questions in private messages will remain unanswered. My son is 10 years old. two years ago I sharply gained weight (in the abdominal area).

Good afternoon! My son is 10 years old. Height 140cm, weight 31kg. He is diagnosed with testicular hypoplasia. The testicles are reduced in volume. If you register, you will be able to further track responses to your messages and continue the dialogue on interesting topics with other users and consultants.

The clinical picture depends on the age at which the problem arose. The intrauterine period begins with conception and ends with the birth of a child. At the moment of fertilization of the egg, the chromosomal sex of the child is determined. Primary germ cells have the opportunity to differentiate in one or the other way up to the 7th week of pregnancy.

The primary gonad is indifferent until the 7th week (indistinguishable in boys and girls). Leydig cells begin to secrete testosterone, and Sertoli cells begin to secrete anti-Mullerian factor. At the 9th week of intrauterine development, the genital ducts are affected by the influence of chromosomal and gonadal sex. Anti-Mullerian factor causes atrophy of the paramesonephric duct.

The regression factor leaves only rudiments in the male body. Testosterone stimulates the development of the Wolffian ducts. By the beginning of the 14th week, the fetus develops epididymis, seminal vesicles, vas deferens and ejaculatory ducts. Primary germ cells transform into spermatogonia.

This hormone is produced from testosterone using the enzyme 5a-reductase. Dihydrotestosterone is involved in the formation of external organs (penis, scrotum). During the prenatal period, the testicles descend into the scrotum.

In the first months after birth, high levels of gonadotropins can be detected in the baby’s blood (due to the intake of maternal gonadotropins). Then, at the age of 9-10 years, inhibition in the hypothalamic centers responsible for sexual development decreases. At puberty, the maturation of germ cells and the formation of mature sperm begin. In this case, it is necessary to begin an examination to identify the cause of the pathology.

To prevent short stature, adolescents with this form of the disease are prescribed anabolic steroids. For secondary hypogonadism, gonadotropins and gonadorelin are used in treatment. This therapy is a prevention of infertility in the future. The appearance of signs of puberty in boys under 9 years of age is considered premature. This condition can lead to social maladjustment.

Changes in physical development in the form of high growth were established in 27.5% of cases (in the comparison group - 27.94%), as well as in 25.5% - excess body weight (in the comparison group - 17.7%; p Delayed sexual intercourse development is determined if a boy by the age of 14 has a testicular volume of less than 4 ml, no growth of the penis in length and no enlargement of the scrotum. As a rule, this is combined with a lag in physical development and ossification of the skeleton. The purpose of the work is to assess the state of physical development and the content of sex hormones in adolescent boys involved in sports.Testosterone, after its metabolic conversion to dihydrotestosterone, determines the development of secondary sexual characteristics in men.

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