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faerytattoodgirl -> RE: term definition please (6/8/2008 5:08:28 PM)
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Gonadal intersex (or "true hermaphrodite"): Rare condition in which the child has both ovarian and testicular tissue, either in separate gonads or as hybrid "ovotestes." Reproductive tracts, genital anatomy and gender identity are variable.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (or adrenogenital syndrome): Genetic error in adrenal glands causes excessive secretion of androgens during fetal life. Genitals of female children are masculinized to a variable degree. Psychological effects include an increased likelihood of same-sex attraction in adulthood.
Androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS, or testicular feminization): An XY (chromosomally male) fetus lacks sensitivity to testosterone, so develops external anatomy and gender identity of female, but lacks internal reproductive tract of either sex.
Partial AIS: Like AIS, but with reduced rather than absent sensitivity to androgens. Child may partially virilize at puberty if testes are not removed.
Hypospadias: Condition in male children in which the urethral meatus (opening) is located on the underside or at the base of the penis. Represents an incomplete male differentiation of the genitalia, but it is not necessarily considered an intersexed condition, especially in its milder forms.
Mayer-Rokitansky-Kustur-Hauser syndrome: Failure of development of vagina, cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes in genetic females. Cause not known. James Benson may have had this syndrome, although his male gender identity is atypical.
Vaginal agenesis: Failure of formation of vagina, for a variety of reasons, including MRKH syndrome.
Cloacal exstrophy: Severe congenital malformation of pelvis, including (in males) lack of a penis. These boys usually develop a male identity even if castrated and surgically reconstructed as females.
Klinefelter's syndrome: Genetic males with one or more extra X chromosomes (XXY, XXXY). Anatomically male but infertile.
Turner's syndrome: Affected individuals have one X and no Y chromosome. Ovaries degenerate during fetal life, in other respects anatomically female. Short stature and lack of secondary sexual characteristics without treatment.
Hermaphrodite: Old medical term for an intersexed person, given new life by some intersex activists.
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