Which side effect is NOT associated with anabolic steroid use in a teenage male?

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Anabolic steroid use in teenage males is linked to several notable side effects due to their influence on hormonal levels. Among the listed side effects, gynecomastia, male pattern baldness, and acne are all recognized consequences of steroid use, while testicular enlargement is not commonly associated.

Gynecomastia occurs due to an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen levels, which can be exacerbated by the use of anabolic steroids. Steroids may convert to estrogen, leading to the development of breast tissue in males.

Male pattern baldness can result from increased levels of androgens, which can alter hair follicles and promote hair loss, particularly in genetically predisposed individuals.

Acne is a common side effect as steroids can increase oil production in the skin, leading to clogged pores and subsequent acne formation.

In contrast, testicular enlargement is not a typical side effect of anabolic steroid use. On the contrary, steroid use is more often associated with testicular atrophy, where the natural testosterone production is suppressed, leading to shrinkage rather than enlargement. Therefore, recognizing this distinction helps clarify why testicular enlargement does not align with the other side effects noted.

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