Illustration of male hormone control, a constant regulation. The hypothalamo-hypophyseal axis : the LHRH (or GnRH) gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) released in the hypothalamus causes the hypophyseal secretion of two gonadotropin hormones (LH and FSH). The gonadotropic axis : FSH and LH, in acting on the testicles, maintains a constant concentration of testerone, and therefore male sexual characteristics. Testerone in turn limits secretions of GnRH, FSH and LH. The adrenocortical, under the control of a hypophyseal hormone (ACTH), produces a group of hormones called corticosteroids which include sexual hormones (androgens) that discretely intervene in sexual development and reproduction, but can also play an important role during pathological secretions. In the case of prostate cancer, a testicular pulpectomy can be performed in order to inhibit the secretion of androgens by testicular tissue. This procedure involves removing the testicle while leaving the envelope in place (albuginea).