Histometric and cytochitechral studies on the rat testis following combined administration of testosterone enanthate and ethinyl estradiol.

Combined administration of TE & EE for 72 days inhibited spermatogenesis. Testicular weight along with germinal height and tubular diameter decreased. Pachytene spermatocytes started becoming pycnotic and less in number by 24 days treatment. Almost no spermatozoa were seen in the lumen by 36 days and very few secondary spermatocytes and spermatids by 60 days. Marked disorganisation and desquamation was observed by the end of treatment. Leydig cells were also atrophied. Increase in swollen cell bodies, vacuolization, karyiolysis, pycnosis and cytolysis were observed after 72 days of treatment. Almost full recovery after 30 days of cessation of treatment was noticed.