Intersex, also known as disorders of sex development, refers to conditions where an individual's reproductive or sexual anatomy doesn't fit typical definitions of male or female. Normally, sex can be distinguished by sex chromosomes, gonads, internal and external genitalia, and secondary sexual characteristics. However, some individuals may have sexual organs, particularly external genitalia, that exhibit characteristics of both sexes, which is termed intersex. The typical female karyotype is 46XX, while the typical male karyotype is 46XY. The Y chromosome determines the development of testes; in its absence, ovaries develop. The endocrine function of the gonads further influences the development of internal and external genitalia and secondary sexual characteristics. Clinically, intersex conditions are classified into two main categories: true hermaphroditism and pseudohermaphroditism. True hermaphrodites possess both ovarian and testicular tissue—either one ovary and one testis, or one or both gonads as ovotestes.

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1. The karyotype of true hermaphroditism is mostly 46XX, a minority are XY, and it can also be a 46XX/XY chimera. 2. The body contains both male and female gonads and hormones. The expression of secondary sexual characteristics depends on the dominant hormones. For example, the breasts may develop as female, while the face may show male characteristics. 3. The genitalia are mostly mixed, with both a penis and fallopian tubes as well as a uterus. 4. The final diagnosis relies on histological examination of the gonads, performed via laparoscopy or even exploratory laparotomy.

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should be corrected based on social gender, personal wishes, and the degree of deformity. Since reconstructing a functional penis is relatively difficult, it is generally advisable to change to female. The surgery involves removing the testicles and penis, and creating an artificial vagina as needed.