Klinefelter's Syndrome Association
Physical characteristics
Boys with or without KS tend to look very similar, but when puberty occurs the testes remain small and this
persists into adult life. Infertility is usual & a lack of libido is likely. Some breast development is possible. A KS male may
develop a pear-shaped body. Men with KS tend to be tall but their limbs are disproportionately long compared with their bodies. Many
also have big feet and obviously have problems getting clothing to fit. Body hair may fail to appear and facial hair rarely attains the level that feelings of masculinity may desire. Boys developing these characteristics are often teased at school and this may give rise to a boy "turning
off" & exhibiting behavioural problems. Many of these characteristics, but not the height or Infertility, may be relieved by Testosterone Replacement
Therapy given from Puberty onwards. The level should be determined by GP & Endocrinologist since some KS males
can make their own Testosterone to some extent. Where insufficient Testosterone is present bone density may be reduced when the body fails to lay down sufficient
calcium & this may give rise to bone disease such as Osteoporosis. For this reason all KS males should request
Bone-Density Scans at least every two years.