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Tienforti D, Marinelli L, Vervalcke J, Spagnolo L, Antolini F, Bichiri A, Baroni MG, Motta G, T'Sjoen G, Barbonetti A. Short-Term Changes in Bone Metabolism Among Transgender Men Starting Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Calcif Tissue Int 2024:10.1007/s00223-024-01296-z. [PMID: 39356296 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-024-01296-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse individuals experience a gender identity that differs from the sex assigned at birth. Some transgender men may request testosterone to induce virilization; however, its impact on bone health remains to be fully elucidated. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the modifications in bone metabolism over a short-term period among transgender men initiating testosterone therapy. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The articles of interest had to report longitudinal evaluation conducted among transgender men, before starting testosterone and after 12 and 24 months of therapy. The analyzed parameters were BMD, calcium, phosphate, 25OHD, PTH, P1NP, BAP, osteocalcin and CTx. Mean differences with 95% coefficient intervals were combined using random effects models. Funnel plot, Egger's test, and trim-and-fill analysis were used to assess publication bias. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, including 1484 subjects. In absence of heterogeneity, BMD did not significantly change at lumbar spine, hip, femoral neck, and whole-body evaluations. Calcium, phosphate, 25OHD and PTH remained stable over time. Regarding bone turnover markers, only P1NP showed a statistically significant increase after 12 months of T therapy, in absence of heterogeneity (SMD 0.61 mcg/l; 95% CI: 0.40-0.83; p < 0.0001; I2 = 0%, Pforheterogeneity = 0.48). Testosterone therapy among transgender men seems not to disrupt bone health after 12 and 24 months. A statistically significant elevation in P1NP levels after 12 months of therapy may indicate a positive anabolic effect of testosterone in the short-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Tienforti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Marinelli
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Vervalcke
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luca Spagnolo
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Federica Antolini
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andreina Bichiri
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Giorgio Baroni
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giovanna Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
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Sanna E, Lami A, Giacomelli G, Alvisi S, Paccapelo A, Seracchioli R, Meriggiola MC. Bone health in transgender assigned female at birth people: effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy and gonadectomy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1416121. [PMID: 39391880 PMCID: PMC11464845 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1416121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) and gender-affirming surgery (GAS) may be desired by transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals who want to affirm their gender identity. Testosterone is the basis of GAHT for transgender individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB), whereas GAS can involve hysterectomy, bilateral salpingectomy, bilateral oophorectomy (BO), thorax masculinization, and phalloplasty. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of GAHT on the bone health of TGD AFAB individuals who have undergone or not undergone BO. Methods This was a single-center, longitudinal study with retrospectively collected data. TGD AFAB GAHT-naïve individuals were enrolled and underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans and laboratory tests (hormonal and bone metabolism parameters) at baseline and after 5 and 10 years of GAHT. Results Two hundred and forty-three TGD AFAB people were included in this study. Seventy-five subjects had completed data for 5 years and 19 subjects for 10 years of GAHT. At baseline, low bone density (Z-score < -2.0) was found in 2.5% (6/243) of subjects for lumbar spine (LS), whereas total hip (TH) and femoral neck (FN) Z-scores and laboratory tests were within the normal female range. After stratifying by physical activity, the physically active group showed significantly higher LS BMD and Z-scores (p ≤ 0.05). Five years after the start of GAHT, a significant reduction in LS (p ≤ 0.05), TH (p ≤ 0.001), and FN (p ≤ 0.01) Z-scores was detected. A significant reduction in the Z-scores of all three bone sites was observed only in the subgroup that had undergone BO. After 5 years of GAHT, estradiol levels were significantly decreased compared to those in baseline (p ≤ 0.001). Significantly higher estradiol levels were detected in the 5-year no-BO subgroup compared to those in the 5-year BO subgroup (p ≤ 0.001). A significant reduction in LS and TH Z-scores were observed after 10 years of GAHT. At this time, estradiol levels were significantly decreased compared to those in baseline (p ≤ 0.01). Conclusion Bone density in TGD AFAB individuals is comparable to that in their peers prior to GAHT and BO, but those subjects who underwent BO had a reduced Z-score at LS, FN, and TH after 5 years and at LS after 10 years of GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Sanna
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopatology, Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Lami
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopatology, Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Giacomelli
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopatology, Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Alvisi
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopatology, Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alexandro Paccapelo
- Research and Innovation Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Renato Seracchioli
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopatology, Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Meriggiola
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopatology, Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Hayes-Lattin M, Krivicich LM, Bragg JT, Rogerson A, Salzler MJ. Considerations for the care of transgender patients in orthopaedics and sports medicine: a narrative review. Br J Sports Med 2024; 58:1075-1082. [PMID: 38997148 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Orthopaedic and sports medicine clinicians can improve outcomes for transgender patients by understanding the physiological effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). This narrative review investigated the role of GAHT on bone mineral density, fracture risk, thromboembolic risk, cardiovascular health and ligament/tendon injury in this population. A search from the PubMed database using relevant terms was performed. Studies were included if they were levels 1-3 evidence. Due to the paucity of studies on ligament and tendon injury risk in transgender patients, levels 1-3 evidence on the effects of sex hormones in cisgender patients as well as basic science studies were included for these two topics. This review found that transgender patients on GAHT have an elevated fracture risk, but GAHT has beneficial effects on bone mineral density in transgender women. Transgender women on GAHT also have an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, stroke and myocardial infarction compared with cisgender women. Despite these elevated risks, studies have found it is safe to continue GAHT perioperatively for both transgender women and men undergoing low-risk operations. Orthopaedic and sports medicine clinicians should understand these unique health considerations for equitable patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura M Krivicich
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jack T Bragg
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ashley Rogerson
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Matthew J Salzler
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Iwamoto SJ, Rice JD, Moreau KL, Cornier MA, Wierman ME, Mancuso MP, Gebregzabheir A, Hammond DB, Rothman MS. The association of gender-affirming hormone therapy duration and body mass index on bone mineral density in gender diverse adults. J Clin Transl Endocrinol 2024; 36:100348. [PMID: 38756206 PMCID: PMC11096741 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcte.2024.100348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Feminizing and masculinizing gender-affirming hormone therapy (fGAHT, mGAHT) results in bone mineral density (BMD) maintenance or improvement over time in transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adults. Mostly European TGD studies have explored GAHT's impact on BMD, but the association of BMI and BMD in TGD adults deserves further study. Objective To determine whether GAHT duration or BMI are associated with BMD and Z-scores among TGD young adults. Methods Cross-sectional study of nonsmoking TGD adults aged 18-40 years without prior gonadectomy or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) therapy taking GAHT for > 1 year. BMD and Z-scores were collected from dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Associations between femoral neck, total hip, and lumbar spine BMDs and Z-scores and the predictors, GAHT duration and BMI, were estimated using linear regression. Results Among 15 fGAHT and 15 mGAHT, mean BMIs were 27.6 +/- standard deviation (SD) 6.4 kg/m2 and 25.3 +/- 5.9 kg/m2, respectively. Both groups had mean BMDs and Z-scores within expected male and female reference ranges at all three sites. Higher BMI among mGAHT was associated with higher femoral neck and total hip BMDs (femoral neck: β = 0.019 +/- standard error [SE] 0.007 g/cm2, total hip: β = 0.017 +/- 0.006 g/cm2; both p < 0.05) and Z-scores using male and female references. GAHT duration was not associated with BMDs or Z-scores for either group. Conclusions Z-scores in young, nonsmoking TGD adults taking GAHT for > 1 year, without prior gonadectomy or GnRHa, and with mean BMIs in the overweight range, were reassuringly within the expected ranges for age based on male and female references. Higher BMI, but not longer GAHT duration, was associated with higher femoral neck and total hip BMDs and Z-scores among mGAHT. Larger, prospective studies are needed to understand how body composition changes, normal or low BMIs, and gonadectomy affect bone density in TGD adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean J. Iwamoto
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 E 17th Ave, 7103, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Endocrinology, Medicine and Research Services, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, 1700 N Wheeling St, 111H, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program, University of Colorado Hospital, 1635 Aurora Court, Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion, 6th floor, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - John D. Rice
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Kerrie L. Moreau
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 E 17th Ave, 8111, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Eastern Colorado Healthcare System, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, 1700 N Wheeling St, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Marc-André Cornier
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas St, CSB 822, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Margaret E. Wierman
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 E 17th Ave, 7103, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Endocrinology, Medicine and Research Services, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, 1700 N Wheeling St, 111H, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Mary P. Mancuso
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Amanuail Gebregzabheir
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 E 17th Ave, 7103, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Daniel B. Hammond
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 E 17th Ave, 7103, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program, University of Colorado Hospital, 1635 Aurora Court, Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion, 6th floor, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Micol S. Rothman
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 E 17th Ave, 7103, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program, University of Colorado Hospital, 1635 Aurora Court, Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion, 6th floor, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Ceolin C, Scala A, Dall'Agnol M, Ziliotto C, Delbarba A, Facondo P, Citron A, Vescovi B, Pasqualini S, Giannini S, Camozzi V, Cappelli C, Bertocco A, De Rui M, Coin A, Sergi G, Ferlin A, Garolla A. Bone health and body composition in transgender adults before gender-affirming hormonal therapy: data from the COMET study. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:401-410. [PMID: 37450195 PMCID: PMC10859333 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02156-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Preliminary data suggested that bone mineral density (BMD) in transgender adults before initiating gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is lower when compared to cisgender controls. In this study, we analyzed bone metabolism in a sample of transgender adults before GAHT, and its possible correlation with biochemical profile, body composition and lifestyle habits (i.e., tobacco smoke and physical activity). METHODS Medical data, smoking habits, phospho-calcic and hormonal blood tests and densitometric parameters were collected in a sample of 125 transgender adults, 78 Assigned Females At Birth (AFAB) and 47 Assigned Males At Birth (AMAB) before GAHT initiation and 146 cisgender controls (57 females and 89 males) matched by sex assigned at birth and age. 55 transgender and 46 cisgender controls also underwent a complete body composition evaluation and assessment of physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). RESULTS 14.3% of transgender and 6.2% of cisgender sample, respectively, had z-score values < -2 (p = 0.04). We observed only lower vitamin D values in transgender sample regarding biochemical/hormonal profile. AFAB transgender people had more total fat mass, while AMAB transgender individuals had reduced total lean mass as compared to cisgender people (53.94 ± 7.74 vs 58.38 ± 6.91, p < 0.05). AFAB transgender adults were more likely to be active smokers and tend to spend more time indoor. Fat Mass Index (FMI) was correlated with lumbar and femur BMD both in transgender individuals, while no correlations were found between lean mass parameters and BMD in AMAB transgender people. CONCLUSIONS Body composition and lifestyle factors could contribute to low BMD in transgender adults before GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ceolin
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
- Regional Reference Center for Gender Incongruence, Padua, Veneto Region, Italy.
| | - A Scala
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Gender Incongruence, Padua, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - M Dall'Agnol
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - C Ziliotto
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - A Delbarba
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - P Facondo
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - A Citron
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - B Vescovi
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - S Pasqualini
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - S Giannini
- Clinica Medica 1, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Gender Incongruence, Padua, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - V Camozzi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Gender Incongruence, Padua, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - C Cappelli
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - A Bertocco
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - M De Rui
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - A Coin
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - G Sergi
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Gender Incongruence, Padua, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - A Ferlin
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Gender Incongruence, Padua, Veneto Region, Italy
| | - A Garolla
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Gender Incongruence, Padua, Veneto Region, Italy
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Cheung AS, Zwickl S, Miller K, Nolan BJ, Wong AFQ, Jones P, Eynon N. The Impact of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Physical Performance. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e455-e465. [PMID: 37437247 PMCID: PMC10795902 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The inclusion of transgender people in elite sport has been a topic of debate. This narrative review examines the impact of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on physical performance, muscle strength, and markers of endurance. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION MEDLINE and Embase were searched using terms to define the population (transgender), intervention (GAHT), and physical performance outcomes. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Existing literature comprises cross-sectional or small uncontrolled longitudinal studies of short duration. In nonathletic trans men starting testosterone therapy, within 1 year, muscle mass and strength increased and, by 3 years, physical performance (push-ups, sit-ups, run time) improved to the level of cisgender men. In nonathletic trans women, feminizing hormone therapy increased fat mass by approximately 30% and decreased muscle mass by approximately 5% after 12 months, and steadily declined beyond 3 years. While absolute lean mass remains higher in trans women, relative percentage lean mass and fat mass (and muscle strength corrected for lean mass), hemoglobin, and VO2 peak corrected for weight was no different to cisgender women. After 2 years of GAHT, no advantage was observed for physical performance measured by running time or in trans women. By 4 years, there was no advantage in sit-ups. While push-up performance declined in trans women, a statistical advantage remained relative to cisgender women. CONCLUSION Limited evidence suggests that physical performance of nonathletic trans people who have undergone GAHT for at least 2 years approaches that of cisgender controls. Further controlled longitudinal research is needed in trans athletes and nonathletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada S Cheung
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg 3084, Australia
| | - Sav Zwickl
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
| | | | - Brendan J Nolan
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg 3084, Australia
| | - Alex Fang Qi Wong
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
| | - Patrice Jones
- Institute for Health and Sport (IHeS), Victoria University, Footscray 3011, Australia
| | - Nir Eynon
- Institute for Health and Sport (IHeS), Victoria University, Footscray 3011, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Australia
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Venkatesh VS, Nie T, Zajac JD, Grossmann M, Davey RA. The Utility of Preclinical Models in Understanding the Bone Health of Transgender Individuals Undergoing Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy. Curr Osteoporos Rep 2023; 21:825-841. [PMID: 37707757 PMCID: PMC10724092 DOI: 10.1007/s11914-023-00818-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarise the evidence regarding the effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on bone health in transgender people, to identify key knowledge gaps and how these gaps can be addressed using preclinical rodent models. RECENT FINDINGS Sex hormones play a critical role in bone physiology, yet there is a paucity of research regarding the effects of GAHT on bone microstructure and fracture risk in transgender individuals. The controlled clinical studies required to yield fracture data are unethical to conduct making clinically translatable preclinical research of the utmost importance. Novel genetic and surgical preclinical models have yielded significant mechanistic insight into the roles of sex steroids on skeletal integrity. Preclinical models of GAHT have the potential inform clinical approaches to preserve skeletal integrity and prevent fractures in transgender people undergoing GAHT. This review highlights the key considerations required to ensure the information gained from preclinical models of GAHT are informative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun S Venkatesh
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Tian Nie
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D Zajac
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Rachel A Davey
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia.
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Goodrich E, Walcott Q, Dallman J, Crow H, Templeton K. Bone Health in the Transgender Population. JBJS Rev 2023; 11:01874474-202310000-00013. [PMID: 37883596 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.rvw.23.00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
» Transgender women are more susceptible to low bone mineral density (BMD) before initiating gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), and while bone density initially improves with GAHT, it gradually declines while still remaining above baseline. Transgender women older than 50 years have a comparable fracture risk as age-matched cisgender women. Transgender men typically have normal or increased BMD before initiating and while receiving GAHT and are not at increased risk of fractures.» Transgender youth who receive puberty-blocking medications experience either no change or a slight decrease in BMD that returns to baseline after initiating GAHT.» It is important to abide by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry guidelines whenever ordering, performing, or reading a BMD scan for a gender-diverse patient.» There are no specific guidelines concerning vitamin D and calcium supplementation or the use of bisphosphonates in the transgender population, so the current recommendation is to abide by the guidelines for cisgender individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hanna Crow
- Ascension Saint Thomas, Nashville, Tennessee
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Hodax JK, Brady C, DiVall S, Ahrens KR, Carlin K, Khalatbari H, Parisi MT, Salehi P. Low Pretreatment Bone Mineral Density in Gender Diverse Youth. Transgend Health 2023; 8:467-471. [PMID: 37810939 PMCID: PMC10551758 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gender diverse adolescents have low pretreatment bone mineral density (BMD), with variable changes in BMD after initiation of gender-affirming treatment. We aimed to assess factors associated with low BMD in gender diverse youth. Sixty-four patients were included in our analysis (73% assigned male at birth). Subtotal whole-body BMD Z-scores were low in 30% of patients, and total lumbar spine BMD Z-scores low in 14%. There was a positive association with body mass index, and no association with vitamin D level. Male sex assigned at birth was associated with lower pretreatment BMD, with lower average BMD Z-scores compared to previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanita K. Hodax
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Charles Brady
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sara DiVall
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kym R. Ahrens
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kristen Carlin
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Hedieh Khalatbari
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Division of Radiology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Marguerite T. Parisi
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Division of Radiology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Parisa Salehi
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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10
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Defreyne J, Vander Stichele C, Iwamoto SJ, T'Sjoen G. Gender-affirming hormonal therapy for transgender and gender-diverse people-A narrative review. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 86:102296. [PMID: 36596713 PMCID: PMC11197232 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.102296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
As the number of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people accessing gender-affirming care increases, the need for healthcare professionals (HCPs) providing gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) also increases. This chapter provides an overview of the HCPs interested in getting involved in providing GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Clara Vander Stichele
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Sean J Iwamoto
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, and Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - G T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
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11
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Hughto JMW, Varma H, Babbs G, Yee K, Alpert A, Hughes L, Ellison J, Downing J, Shireman TI. Disparities in health condition diagnoses among aging transgender and cisgender medicare beneficiaries, 2008-2017. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1102348. [PMID: 36992801 PMCID: PMC10040837 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1102348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this research is to provide national estimates of the prevalence of health condition diagnoses among age-entitled transgender and cisgender Medicare beneficiaries. Quantification of the health burden across sex assigned at birth and gender can inform prevention, research, and allocation of funding for modifiable risk factors. METHODS Using 2009-2017 Medicare fee-for-service data, we implemented an algorithm that leverages diagnosis, procedure, and pharmacy claims to identify age-entitled transgender Medicare beneficiaries and stratify the sample by inferred gender: trans feminine and nonbinary (TFN), trans masculine and nonbinary (TMN), and unclassified. We selected a 5% random sample of cisgender individuals for comparison. We descriptively analyzed (means and frequencies) demographic characteristics (age, race/ethnicity, US census region, months of enrollment) and used chi-square and t-tests to determine between- (transgender vs. cisgender) and within-group gender differences (e.g., TMN, TFN, unclassified) difference in demographics (p<0.05). We then used logistic regression to estimate and examine within- and between-group gender differences in the predicted probability of 25 health conditions, controlling for age, race/ethnicity, enrollment length, and census region. RESULTS The analytic sample included 9,975 transgender (TFN n=4,198; TMN n=2,762; unclassified n=3,015) and 2,961,636 cisgender (male n=1,294,690, female n=1,666,946) beneficiaries. The majority of the transgender and cisgender samples were between the ages of 65 and 69 and White, non-Hispanic. The largest proportion of transgender and cisgender beneficiaries were from the South. On average, transgender individuals had more months of enrollment than cisgender individuals. In adjusted models, aging TFN or TMN Medicare beneficiaries had the highest probability of each of the 25 health diagnoses studied relative to cisgender males or females. TFN beneficiaries had the highest burden of health diagnoses relative to all other groups. DISCUSSION These findings document disparities in key health condition diagnoses among transgender Medicare beneficiaries relative to cisgender individuals. Future application of these methods will enable the study of rare and anatomy-specific conditions among hard-to-reach aging transgender populations and inform interventions and policies to address documented disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn M. W. Hughto
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
- Departments of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Jaclyn M. W. Hughto,
| | - Hiren Varma
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Health Services Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Gray Babbs
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Health Services Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Kim Yee
- Oregon Health & Science University - Portland State University School of Public Health, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Ash Alpert
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Health Services Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Landon Hughes
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Jacqueline Ellison
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Innovative Research on Gender Health Equity (CONVERGE), University of Pittsburgh Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jae Downing
- Oregon Health & Science University - Portland State University School of Public Health, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Theresa I. Shireman
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Health Services Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
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12
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Johnson N, Chabbert-Buffet N. Hormonothérapies de transition chez les personnes transgenres. Med Sci (Paris) 2022; 38:905-912. [DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2022151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aujourd’hui encore, la prise en charge médicale des personnes transgenres pâtit d’une insuffisance d’offre de soins et de formation des soignants. La mise en œuvre d’une hormonothérapie est souvent souhaitée par les personnes transgenres et il est nécessaire qu’un médecin sache l’instaurer et la suivre tout au long de la transition. Nous abordons dans cette revue le traitement hormonal féminisant (THF) chez les femmes transgenres adultes, et le traitement hormonal masculinisant (THM) chez les hommes transgenres adultes.
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13
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Coleman E, Radix AE, Bouman WP, Brown GR, de Vries ALC, Deutsch MB, Ettner R, Fraser L, Goodman M, Green J, Hancock AB, Johnson TW, Karasic DH, Knudson GA, Leibowitz SF, Meyer-Bahlburg HFL, Monstrey SJ, Motmans J, Nahata L, Nieder TO, Reisner SL, Richards C, Schechter LS, Tangpricha V, Tishelman AC, Van Trotsenburg MAA, Winter S, Ducheny K, Adams NJ, Adrián TM, Allen LR, Azul D, Bagga H, Başar K, Bathory DS, Belinky JJ, Berg DR, Berli JU, Bluebond-Langner RO, Bouman MB, Bowers ML, Brassard PJ, Byrne J, Capitán L, Cargill CJ, Carswell JM, Chang SC, Chelvakumar G, Corneil T, Dalke KB, De Cuypere G, de Vries E, Den Heijer M, Devor AH, Dhejne C, D'Marco A, Edmiston EK, Edwards-Leeper L, Ehrbar R, Ehrensaft D, Eisfeld J, Elaut E, Erickson-Schroth L, Feldman JL, Fisher AD, Garcia MM, Gijs L, Green SE, Hall BP, Hardy TLD, Irwig MS, Jacobs LA, Janssen AC, Johnson K, Klink DT, Kreukels BPC, Kuper LE, Kvach EJ, Malouf MA, Massey R, Mazur T, McLachlan C, Morrison SD, Mosser SW, Neira PM, Nygren U, Oates JM, Obedin-Maliver J, Pagkalos G, Patton J, Phanuphak N, Rachlin K, Reed T, Rider GN, Ristori J, Robbins-Cherry S, Roberts SA, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Rosenthal SM, Sabir K, Safer JD, Scheim AI, Seal LJ, Sehoole TJ, Spencer K, St Amand C, Steensma TD, Strang JF, Taylor GB, Tilleman K, T'Sjoen GG, Vala LN, Van Mello NM, Veale JF, Vencill JA, Vincent B, Wesp LM, West MA, Arcelus J. Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 23:S1-S259. [PMID: 36238954 PMCID: PMC9553112 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2100644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 718] [Impact Index Per Article: 359.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Transgender healthcare is a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field. In the last decade, there has been an unprecedented increase in the number and visibility of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people seeking support and gender-affirming medical treatment in parallel with a significant rise in the scientific literature in this area. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) is an international, multidisciplinary, professional association whose mission is to promote evidence-based care, education, research, public policy, and respect in transgender health. One of the main functions of WPATH is to promote the highest standards of health care for TGD people through the Standards of Care (SOC). The SOC was initially developed in 1979 and the last version (SOC-7) was published in 2012. In view of the increasing scientific evidence, WPATH commissioned a new version of the Standards of Care, the SOC-8. Aim: The overall goal of SOC-8 is to provide health care professionals (HCPs) with clinical guidance to assist TGD people in accessing safe and effective pathways to achieving lasting personal comfort with their gendered selves with the aim of optimizing their overall physical health, psychological well-being, and self-fulfillment. Methods: The SOC-8 is based on the best available science and expert professional consensus in transgender health. International professionals and stakeholders were selected to serve on the SOC-8 committee. Recommendation statements were developed based on data derived from independent systematic literature reviews, where available, background reviews and expert opinions. Grading of recommendations was based on the available evidence supporting interventions, a discussion of risks and harms, as well as the feasibility and acceptability within different contexts and country settings. Results: A total of 18 chapters were developed as part of the SOC-8. They contain recommendations for health care professionals who provide care and treatment for TGD people. Each of the recommendations is followed by explanatory text with relevant references. General areas related to transgender health are covered in the chapters Terminology, Global Applicability, Population Estimates, and Education. The chapters developed for the diverse population of TGD people include Assessment of Adults, Adolescents, Children, Nonbinary, Eunuchs, and Intersex Individuals, and people living in Institutional Environments. Finally, the chapters related to gender-affirming treatment are Hormone Therapy, Surgery and Postoperative Care, Voice and Communication, Primary Care, Reproductive Health, Sexual Health, and Mental Health. Conclusions: The SOC-8 guidelines are intended to be flexible to meet the diverse health care needs of TGD people globally. While adaptable, they offer standards for promoting optimal health care and guidance for the treatment of people experiencing gender incongruence. As in all previous versions of the SOC, the criteria set forth in this document for gender-affirming medical interventions are clinical guidelines; individual health care professionals and programs may modify these in consultation with the TGD person.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Coleman
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - A E Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - W P Bouman
- Nottingham Centre for Transgender Health, Nottingham, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - G R Brown
- James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
- James H. Quillen VAMC, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - A L C de Vries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M B Deutsch
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Gender Affirming Health Program, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - R Ettner
- New Health Foundation Worldwide, Evanston, IL, USA
- Weiss Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - L Fraser
- Independent Practice, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M Goodman
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - J Green
- Independent Scholar, Vancouver, WA, USA
| | - A B Hancock
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - T W Johnson
- Department of Anthropology, California State University, Chico, CA, USA
| | - D H Karasic
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Independent Practice at dankarasic.com
| | - G A Knudson
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, Canada
| | - S F Leibowitz
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - H F L Meyer-Bahlburg
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - J Motmans
- Transgender Infopunt, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Centre for Research on Culture and Gender, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - L Nahata
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Endocrinology and Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T O Nieder
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Interdisciplinary Transgender Health Care Center Hamburg, Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Hamburg, Germany
| | - S L Reisner
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - C Richards
- Regents University London, UK
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - V Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - A C Tishelman
- Boston College, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - M A A Van Trotsenburg
- Bureau GenderPRO, Vienna, Austria
- University Hospital Lilienfeld-St. Pölten, St. Pölten, Austria
| | - S Winter
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - K Ducheny
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - N J Adams
- University of Toronto, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, Canada
- Transgender Professional Association for Transgender Health (TPATH)
| | - T M Adrián
- Asamblea Nacional de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
- Diverlex Diversidad e Igualdad a Través de la Ley, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - L R Allen
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - D Azul
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia
| | - H Bagga
- Monash Health Gender Clinic, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Başar
- Department of Psychiatry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - D S Bathory
- Independent Practice at Bathory International PLLC, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - J J Belinky
- Durand Hospital, Guemes Clinic and Urological Center, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D R Berg
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J U Berli
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - R O Bluebond-Langner
- NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - M-B Bouman
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M L Bowers
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mills-Peninsula Medical Center, Burlingame, CA, USA
| | - P J Brassard
- GrS Montreal, Complexe CMC, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Université de Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - J Byrne
- University of Waikato/Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, New Zealand/Aotearoa
| | - L Capitán
- The Facialteam Group, Marbella International Hospital, Marbella, Spain
| | | | - J M Carswell
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston's Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S C Chang
- Independent Practice, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - G Chelvakumar
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T Corneil
- School of Population & Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - K B Dalke
- Penn State Health, PA, USA
- Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - G De Cuypere
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - E de Vries
- Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - M Den Heijer
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - A H Devor
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - C Dhejne
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A D'Marco
- UCTRANS-United Caribbean Trans Network, Nassau, The Bahamas
- D M A R C O Organization, Nassau, The Bahamas
| | - E K Edmiston
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - L Edwards-Leeper
- Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA
- Independent Practice, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - R Ehrbar
- Whitman Walker Health, Washington, DC, USA
- Independent Practice, Maryland, USA
| | - D Ehrensaft
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - J Eisfeld
- Transvisie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E Elaut
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Experimental and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - L Erickson-Schroth
- The Jed Foundation, New York, NY, USA
- Hetrick-Martin Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - J L Feldman
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - M M Garcia
- Department of Urology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Departments of Urology and Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - L Gijs
- Institute of Family and Sexuality Studies, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - B P Hall
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Adult Gender Medicine Clinic, Durham, NC, USA
| | - T L D Hardy
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- MacEwan University, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - M S Irwig
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - A C Janssen
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Johnson
- RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - D T Klink
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, ZNA Queen Paola Children's Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - B P C Kreukels
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - L E Kuper
- Department of Psychiatry, Southwestern Medical Center, University of Texas, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - E J Kvach
- Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - M A Malouf
- Malouf Counseling and Consulting, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - R Massey
- WPATH Global Education Institute
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - T Mazur
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- John R. Oishei Children's Hospital, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - C McLachlan
- Professional Association for Transgender Health, South Africa
- Gender DynamiX, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - S D Morrison
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - S W Mosser
- Gender Confirmation Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - P M Neira
- Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins Medicine Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Health Equity, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - U Nygren
- Division of Speech and Language Pathology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Speech and Language Pathology, Medical Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J M Oates
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne Voice Analysis Centre, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - J Obedin-Maliver
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - G Pagkalos
- Independent PracticeThessaloniki, Greece
- Military Community Mental Health Center, 424 General Military Training Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - J Patton
- Talkspace, New York, NY, USA
- CytiPsychological LLC, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - N Phanuphak
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - K Rachlin
- Independent Practice, New York, NY, USA
| | - T Reed
- Gender Identity Research and Education Society, Leatherhead, UK
| | - G N Rider
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - S A Roberts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston's Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S M Rosenthal
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Child and Adolescent Gender Center
| | - K Sabir
- FtM Phoenix Group, Krasnodar Krai, Russia
| | - J D Safer
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - A I Scheim
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Ontario, Canada
| | - L J Seal
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - K Spencer
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - C St Amand
- University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - T D Steensma
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F Strang
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
- George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - G B Taylor
- Atrium Health Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - K Tilleman
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - G G T'Sjoen
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - L N Vala
- Independent Practice, Campbell, CA, USA
| | - N M Van Mello
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F Veale
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato/Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, New Zealand/Aotearoa
| | - J A Vencill
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - B Vincent
- Trans Learning Partnership at https://spectra-london.org.uk/trans-learning-partnership, UK
| | - L M Wesp
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin MilwaukeeMilwaukee, WI, USA
- Health Connections Inc., Glendale, WI, USA
| | - M A West
- North Memorial Health Hospital, Robbinsdale, MN, USA
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J Arcelus
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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14
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Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals may undergo a wide range of care during gender transition including mental health counseling, gender-affirming hormonal therapy, and various surgeries. Hormone therapy effectively converts the hormonal milieu into that of the affirmed gender and produces measurable alterations in serum markers for coronary artery disease and other hematologic conditions (eg, erythrocytosis, venous thrombosis). Although illegal in the United States, some transgender women may receive silicone injections for breast and soft tissue augmentation, which can lead to devastating local complications, as well as silicone migration, pulmonary embolism, systemic reactions, and death. Smoking rates are higher among transgender and sexual minority populations, placing them at elevated risk of smoking-related diseases, including lung cancer. Some opportunistic infections may be more common in the TGD populations, attributable to higher rates of coexisting infection with human immunodeficiency virus. Radiologists should be aware that these patients may develop cancer of their natal organs (eg, breast, prostate), especially as some of these tissues are not completely removed during gender-affirming surgery, which may manifest with thoracic involvement by secondary neoplasia. As more TGD patients seek medical care, thoracic radiologists can reasonably expect to interpret imaging performed in this population and should be aware of possible disease processes and potential complications of hormonal and surgical therapies.
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15
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Liang B, Cheung AS, Nolan BJ. Clinical features and prevalence of Klinefelter syndrome in transgender individuals: A systematic review. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 97:3-12. [PMID: 35394664 PMCID: PMC9540025 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous studies have suggested a higher prevalence of Klinefelter syndrome amongst transgender individuals. We undertook a systematic review to determine the prevalence of Klinefelter syndrome amongst transgender individuals presumed male at birth and summarize the clinical features and potential treatment implications for individuals with Klinefelter syndrome commencing gender-affirming hormone therapy. DESIGN Using preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis guidelines, we searched EMBASE, MEDLINE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) up to 31 December 2021. All studies reporting on the prevalence or clinical features of transgender individuals with Klinefelter syndrome were included. This study is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews, number CRD42021227916. RESULTS Our search strategy retrieved 11 cohort studies comprising 1376 transgender individuals. In all, 14 of 1376 (1.02%) individuals were diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome. Based on the seven studies in which karyotype was undertaken in all individuals, the prevalence is 9/1013 (0.88%; 95% CI, 0.41%-1.68%). Case reports highlight unique treatment considerations in this population, including azoospermia, venous thromboembolism, and monitoring of breast cancer and bone health. CONCLUSIONS Compared to the general population, observational studies document a higher prevalence of Klinefelter syndrome amongst transgender individuals, though underdiagnosis in the general population limits conclusions. Routine karyotype in transgender people initiating gender-affirming hormone therapy is not supported unless clinical features of Klinefelter syndrome, such as small testicular volume, or hypergonadotropic hypogonadism are present. Transgender individuals with Klinefelter syndrome need to manage a unique risk profile if they desire feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie Liang
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health)University of MelbourneHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
| | - Ada S. Cheung
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health)University of MelbourneHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- Department of EndocrinologyAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
| | - Brendan J. Nolan
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health)University of MelbourneHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- Department of EndocrinologyAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- Equinox Gender Diverse Health CentreThorne Harbour HealthAbbotsfordVictoriaAustralia
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16
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Total Joint Arthroplasties in Transgender Patients: Unique Considerations for an Emerging Patient Population. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2022; 30:607-612. [PMID: 35439219 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-21-00914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, no studies exist on transgender patients undergoing orthopaedic procedures within the orthopaedic literature at large. This echoes a trend within medicine in general, where despite their unique characteristics, transgender patients are largely ignored in medical research. As gender reassignment surgery becomes more commonplace and these patients' age into joint arthroplasties, orthopaedic surgeons will rapidly be faced with treating this patient group. Unique considerations include medical comorbidities commonly associated with the patient population, deep vein thrombosis risk while on cross-gender hormone therapy, surgical positioning considerations, and social support implications after surgery. In addition, risk reductions for possible future gender reassignment surgeries include consideration for extended perioperative antibiotics and diligent surveillance for implant ingrowth issues. An emphasis is placed on being comfortable with transgender patients to ensure equal access to health care while ensuring understanding and accuracy in describing the risks of surgery that are unique to this patient population.
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17
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Verroken C, Collet S, Lapauw B, T'Sjoen G. Osteoporosis and Bone Health in Transgender Individuals. Calcif Tissue Int 2022; 110:615-623. [PMID: 35366693 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-022-00972-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses the changes in bone mass, structure, and metabolism that occur upon gender-affirming hormonal treatment (GAHT) in transgender adults and adolescents, as well as their clinical relevance. In general, available evidence shows that GAHT in transgender adults is not associated with major bone loss. In transgender adolescents, pubertal suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist monotherapy impairs bone development, but at least partial recovery is observed after GAHT initiation. Nevertheless, a research gap remains concerning fracture risk and determinants of bone strength other than bone mineral density. Attention for bone health is warranted especially in adult as well as adolescent trans women, given the relatively high prevalence of low bone mass both before the start of treatment and after long-term GAHT in this population. Strategies to optimize bone health include monitoring of treatment compliance and ensuring adequate exposure to administered sex steroids, in addition to general bone health measures such as adequate physical activity, adequate vitamin D and calcium intake, and a healthy lifestyle. When risk factors for osteoporosis exist the threshold to perform DXA should be low, and treatment decisions should be based on the same guidelines as the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Verroken
- Unit for Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Diseases, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Sarah Collet
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bruno Lapauw
- Unit for Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Diseases, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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18
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D'hoore L, T'Sjoen G. Gender-affirming hormone therapy: An updated literature review with an eye on the future. J Intern Med 2022; 291:574-592. [PMID: 34982475 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In line with increasing numbers of transgender (trans) and gender nonbinary people requesting hormone treatment, the body of available research is expanding. More clinical research groups are presenting data, and the numbers of participants in these studies are rising. Many previous review papers have focused on all available data, as these were scarce, but a more recent literature review is timely. Hormonal regimens have changed over time, and older data may be less relevant for today's practice. In recent literature, we have found that even though mental health problems are more prevalent in trans people compared to cisgender people, less psychological difficulties occur, and life satisfaction increases with gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) for those who feel this is a necessity. With GAHT, body composition and contours change towards the affirmed sex. Studies in bone health are reassuring, but special attention is needed for adolescent and adult trans women, aiming at adequate dosage of hormonal supplementation and stimulating therapy compliance. Existing epidemiological data suggest that the use of (certain) estrogens in trans women induces an increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke, the reason that lifestyle management can be an integral part of trans health care. The observed cancer risk in trans people does not exceed the known cancer-risk differences between men and women. Now it is time to integrate the mostly reassuring data, to leave the overly cautious approach behind, to not copy the same research questions repeatedly, and to focus on longer follow-up data with larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens D'hoore
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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19
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Bretherton I, Ghasem-Zadeh A, Leemaqz SY, Seeman E, Wang X, McFarlane T, Spanos C, Grossmann M, Zajac JD, Cheung AS. Bone Microarchitecture in Transgender Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Bone Miner Res 2022; 37:643-648. [PMID: 34981566 PMCID: PMC9305455 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Gender-affirming hormone therapy aligns physical characteristics with an individual's gender identity, but sex hormones regulate bone remodeling and influence bone morphology. We hypothesized that trans men receiving testosterone have compromised bone morphology because of suppression of ovarian estradiol production, whereas trans women receiving estradiol, with or without anti-androgen therapy, have preserved bone microarchitecture. We compared distal radial and tibial microarchitecture using high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography images in a cross-sectional study of 41 trans men with 71 cis female controls, and 40 trans women with 51 cis male controls. Between-group differences were expressed as standardized deviations (SD) from the mean in age-matched cisgender controls with 98% confidence intervals adjusted for cross-sectional area (CSA) and multiple comparisons. Relative to cis women, trans men had 0.63 SD higher total volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD; both p = 0.01). Cortical vBMD and cortical porosity did not differ, but cortices were 1.11 SD thicker (p < 0.01). Trabeculae were 0.38 SD thicker (p = 0.05) but otherwise no different. Compared with cis men, trans women had 0.68 SD lower total vBMD (p = 0.01). Cortical vBMD was 0.70 SD lower (p < 0.01), cortical thickness was 0.51 SD lower (p = 0.04), and cortical porosity was 0.70 SD higher (p < 0.01). Trabecular bone volume (BV/TV) was 0.77 SD lower (p < 0.01), with 0.57 SD fewer (p < 0.01) and 0.30 SD thicker trabeculae (p = 0.02). There was 0.56 SD greater trabecular separation (p = 0.01). Findings at the distal radius were similar. Contrary to each hypothesis, bone microarchitecture was not compromised in trans men, perhaps because aromatization of administered testosterone prevented bone loss. Trans women had deteriorated bone microarchitecture either because of deficits in microstructure before treatment or because the estradiol dosage was insufficient to offset reduced aromatizable testosterone. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Bretherton
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Ali Ghasem-Zadeh
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Shalem Y Leemaqz
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ego Seeman
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Thomas McFarlane
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Cassandra Spanos
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D Zajac
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Ada S Cheung
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
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20
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Cocchetti C, Romani A, Collet S, Greenman Y, Schreiner T, Wiepjes C, den Heijer M, T’Sjoen G, Fisher AD. The ENIGI (European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence) Study: Overview of Acquired Endocrine Knowledge and Future Perspectives. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11071784. [PMID: 35407392 PMCID: PMC8999511 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11071784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Literature on the efficacy and safety of gender-affirming hormonal treatment (GAHT) in transgender people is limited. For this reason, in 2010 the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI) study was born. The aim of this review is to summarize evidence emerging from this prospective multicentric study and to identify future perspectives. GAHT was effective in inducing desired body changes in both trans AMAB and AFAB people (assigned male and female at birth, respectively). Evidence from the ENIGI study confirmed the overall safety of GAHT in the short/mid-term. In trans AMAB people, an increase in prolactin levels was demonstrated, whereas the most common side effects in trans AFAB people were acne development, erythrocytosis, and unfavorable changes in lipid profile. The main future perspectives should include the evaluation of the efficacy and safety of non-standardized hormonal treatment in non-binary trans people. Furthermore, long-term safety data on mortality rates, oncological risk, and cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and thromboembolic events are lacking. With this aim, we decided to extend the observation of the ENIGI study to 10 years in order to study all these aspects in depth and to answer these questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Cocchetti
- Andrology, Women’s Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50100 Florence, Italy; (C.C.); (A.R.)
| | - Alessia Romani
- Andrology, Women’s Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50100 Florence, Italy; (C.C.); (A.R.)
| | - Sarah Collet
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (S.C.); (G.T.)
| | - Yona Greenman
- Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel;
| | - Thomas Schreiner
- Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, 0130 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Chantal Wiepjes
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (C.W.); (M.d.H.)
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (C.W.); (M.d.H.)
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guy T’Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (S.C.); (G.T.)
| | - Alessandra Daphne Fisher
- Andrology, Women’s Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50100 Florence, Italy; (C.C.); (A.R.)
- Correspondence:
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21
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Fisher AD, Senofonte G, Cocchetti C, Guercio G, Lingiardi V, Meriggiola MC, Mosconi M, Motta G, Ristori J, Speranza AM, Pierdominici M, Maggi M, Corona G, Lombardo F. SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE position statement of gender affirming hormonal treatment in transgender and non-binary people. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:657-673. [PMID: 34677807 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01694-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender Incongruence (GI) is a marked and persistent incongruence between an individual's experienced and the assigned gender at birth. In the recent years, there has been a considerable evolution and change in attitude as regards to gender nonconforming people. METHODS According to the Italian Society of Gender, Identity and Health (SIGIS), the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE) rules, a team of experts on the topic has been nominated by a SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE Guideline Board on the basis of their recognized clinical and research expertise in the field, and coordinated by a senior author, has prepared this Position statement. Later on, the present manuscript has been submitted to the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation for the normal process of international peer reviewing after a first internal revision process made by the SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE Guideline Board. RESULTS In the present document by the SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE group, we propose experts opinions concerning the psychological functioning, gender affirming hormonal treatment, safety concerns, emerging issues in transgender healthcare (sexual health, fertility issues, elderly trans people), and an Italian law overview aimed to improve gender non-conforming people care. CONCLUSION In this Position statement, we propose experts opinions concerning the psychological functioning of transgender people, the gender-affirming hormonal treatment (full/partial masculinization in assigned female at birth trans people, full/partial feminization and de-masculinization in assigned male at birth trans people), the emerging issues in transgender health care aimed to improve patient care. We have also included an overview of Italian law about gender affirming surgery and registry rectification.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Senofonte
- Laboratory of Seminology, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - C Cocchetti
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Guercio
- Studio Legale Avv. Giovanni Guercio, Via Antonio Mordini, 14, 00195, Rome, Italy
| | - V Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - M C Meriggiola
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Mosconi
- Gender Identity Development Service, Hospital S. Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - G Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - A M Speranza
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - M Pierdominici
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda-Usl, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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22
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Giacomelli G, Meriggiola MC. Bone health in transgender people: a narrative review. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2022; 13:20420188221099346. [PMID: 35651988 PMCID: PMC9150228 DOI: 10.1177/20420188221099346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone health in transmen and transwomen is an important issue that needs to be evaluated by clinicians. Prior to gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT), transwomen have lower bone mineral density (BMD) and a higher prevalence of osteopenia than cismen probably related to external factors, such as hypovitaminosis D and less physical activities. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues in transgender youth may cause bone loss; however, the addition of GAHT restores or at least improves BMD in both transboys and transgirls. The maintenance or increase in BMD shown in short-term longitudinal studies emphasizes that GAHT does not have a negative effect on BMD in adult transwomen and transmen. Gonadectomy is not a risk factor if GAHT is taken correctly. The prevalence of fractures in the transgender population seems to be the same as in the general population but more studies are required on this aspect. To evaluate the risk of osteoporosis, it is mandatory to define the most appropriate reference group not only taking into consideration the medical aspects but also in respect of the selected gender identity of each person.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Giacomelli
- Division of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna. S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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23
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T’Sjoen G, Defreyne J. Editorial: Transgender health care, what you missed during your training. Int J Impot Res 2021; 33:669-670. [DOI: 10.1038/s41443-020-0323-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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24
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Pirtea P, Ayoubi JM, Desmedt S, T’Sjoen G. Ovarian, breast, and metabolic changes induced by androgen treatment in transgender men. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:936-942. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.07.1206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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25
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Nolan BJ, Cheung AS. Relationship Between Serum Estradiol Concentrations and Clinical Outcomes in Transgender Individuals Undergoing Feminizing Hormone Therapy: A Narrative Review. Transgend Health 2021; 6:125-131. [PMID: 34414268 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2020.0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgender, including gender diverse and nonbinary, individuals are treated with estradiol with or without antiandrogen to align their physical appearance with their gender identity, improve mental health and quality of life. Consensus guidelines give target ranges for serum estradiol concentration based on premenopausal female reference ranges. However, limited studies have evaluated the relationship between serum estradiol concentrations and clinical outcomes in transgender individuals undergoing feminizing hormone therapy. The available evidence has not found that higher serum estradiol concentrations, together with suppressed testosterone, enhance breast development, or produce more feminine changes to body composition. However, ensuring testosterone suppression appears to be an important factor to maximize these physical changes. Higher serum estradiol concentrations have been associated with higher areal bone mineral density. Although the resultant long-term clinical implications are yet to be determined, this could be a consideration for individuals with low bone mass. The precise serum estradiol concentration that results in adequate feminization without increasing the risk of complications (thromboembolic disease, cholelithiasis) remains unknown. Further prospective trials are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Nolan
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ada S Cheung
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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26
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Sexual orientation in transgender individuals: results from the longitudinal ENIGI study. Int J Impot Res 2021; 33:694-702. [PMID: 33483604 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-020-00402-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Transgender people and their next-of-kin may request information on sexual orientation and preferred partners during hormonal affirming process. Although previous research on sexual orientation in transgender people is extensive, this literature may already be outdated and/or the methodology of studies assessing sexual orientation may fall short. This prospective cohort study was part of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). Gender role and preferred partner in sexual fantasies, sexual orientation and gender of current sexual partner were assessed at baseline (initiation of HT) and every follow-up visit. Data from 469 transgender women (TW) and 433 transgender men (TM) were analyzed cross-sectionally and prospectively. At baseline, more than half reported having no partner (35% of TW, 47% of TM). After 12 months, more than half reported having a partner (59% of TW, 56% of TM), with no changes between one and three years of HT. The majority of TM preferred a female partner, TW preferred male and female partners. The sexual identity of their partner matched their sexual orientation in >80%. Sexual orientation did not change over time. We did not observe associations with serum levels of sex steroids or gender-affirming surgery (chest or genital surgery). Sexual orientation did not change during hormonal transition and was not associated with sex steroids or surgery. Also, preferences matched the partner's sexual identity. We do not assume that changing serum levels of sex steroids is directly associated with changes in partner choice. The number of people with a current partner increased, possibly due to the indirect effects of gender-affirming care.
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27
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Matthys I, Defreyne J, Elaut E, Fisher AD, Kreukels BPC, Staphorsius A, Den Heijer M, T’Sjoen G. Positive and Negative Affect Changes during Gender-Affirming Hormonal Treatment: Results from the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10020296. [PMID: 33466910 PMCID: PMC7829763 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Improving transgender people's quality of life (QoL) is the most important goal of gender-affirming care. Prospective changes in affect can influence QoL. We aim to assess the impact of initiating gender-affirming hormonal treatment (HT) on affect. In the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI) study, we prospectively collected data of 873 participants (451 transwomen (TW) and 422 transmen (TM)). At baseline, psychological questionnaires including the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) were administered. The PANAS, levels of sex steroids and physical changes were registered at each follow-up visit during a 3-year follow-up period, starting at the initiation of hormonal therapy. Data were analyzed cross-sectionally and prospectively. Over the first three months, we observed a decline in positive affect (PA) in both TM and TW. Thereafter, PA reached a steady state in TW, whereas in TM there was also a second decline at 18 months. In both TM and TW there was no persisting difference comparing baseline to the 36-months results. Concerning negative affect (NA), we observed a decline during the first year in TM, which sustained during the second year and was not different anymore at 36 months compared to baseline. In TW though, we did not find any change of NA during the entire follow-up. Even if some of these results show significant differences, they should be considered with caution, since there was no control group and the absolute differences are small. No association between affect and the level of sex steroids was observed. Baseline QoL and psychological burden are related to affect independently from gender but are not necessarily good predictors of the evolution of one's affect during the gender-affirming process. Further research is necessary to investigate these preliminary results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imke Matthys
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Correspondence: (I.M.); (J.D.)
| | - Justine Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Correspondence: (I.M.); (J.D.)
| | - Els Elaut
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Alessandra Daphne Fisher
- Andrology, Women’s Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Baudewijntje P. C. Kreukels
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.S.); (M.D.H.)
| | - Annemieke Staphorsius
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.S.); (M.D.H.)
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Den Heijer
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.S.); (M.D.H.)
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guy T’Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
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Cirrincione LR, Narla RR. Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy and Bone Health: Do Different Regimens Influence Outcomes in Transgender Adults? A Narrative Review and Call for Future Studies. J Appl Lab Med 2021; 6:219-235. [PMID: 33432334 DOI: 10.1093/jalm/jfaa213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) influences bone health in transgender individuals. Several hormone preparations and administration routes are available for GAHT, but no studies have compared clinical and laboratory bone health measures across different GAHT regimens. CONTENT We searched PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, and Google Scholar for studies measuring bone turnover markers and bone mineral density before and during GAHT in transgender adults. We summarized bone health data by hormone type and administration route (estrogen or testosterone; oral, transdermal/percutaneous, intramuscular). Among trans women, we also examined outcomes among regimens containing different adjunctive agents (antiandrogens or gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs). SUMMARY Most hormone preparations maintained or increased areal bone mineral density among trans adults taking GAHT for at least 12 months from baseline. Different bone turnover markers were measured across studies, and we were unable to compare or comment on the direct influence of selected hormone preparations on these clinical laboratory measures. Larger and uniformed studies are needed to measure volumetric bone mineral density and biomarkers of bone metabolism in trans adults taking standardized GAHT regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Radhika R Narla
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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Fortin CN, Moravek MB. Medical transition for gender diverse patients. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2020; 9:166-177. [PMID: 36714061 PMCID: PMC9881054 DOI: 10.1007/s13669-020-00297-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of review The purpose of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of gender-affirming hormone therapy, including the various hormone regimens available, the efficacy and potential risks of these treatments, and considerations for surveillance and long-term care. Recent findings Recent studies reaffirm that hormone therapy has positive physical and psychological effects for many transgender individuals. The overall risks of treatment are low. Transgender women may have an increased risk of venous thromboembolism and breast cancer based on recent cohort studies, but these findings have yet to be confirmed with randomized controlled trials. Important long-term considerations include metabolic, cardiovascular, and skeletal health. Summary High-quality, long-term studies on the effectiveness and safety of various gender-affirming hormone treatment regimens are lacking, but the currently available evidence suggests that it is overall safe and effective with appropriate oversight.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Molly B. Moravek
- Corresponding author: L4001 Women’s Hospital, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI,
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Rozga M, Linsenmeyer W, Cantwell Wood J, Darst V, Gradwell E. Hormone therapy, health outcomes and the role of nutrition in transgender individuals: A scoping review. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2020; 40:42-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Motta G, Marinelli L, Barale M, Brustio PR, Manieri C, Ghigo E, Procopio M, Lanfranco F. Fracture risk assessment in an Italian group of transgender women after gender-confirming surgery. J Bone Miner Metab 2020; 38:885-893. [PMID: 32691168 DOI: 10.1007/s00774-020-01127-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bone health is a critical issue in transgender women (TW) health care. Conflicting results have been reported on bone status after gender-confirming surgery (GCS). No recent data in Italian TW are available. MATERIALS AND METHODS The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate fracture risk, lumbar spine BMD and 25OH vitamin D (25OHD) levels in a population of TW on estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) after GCS. We retrospectively analyzed a group of 57 TW, aged 45.3 ± 11.3 years, referred to our Gender Dysphoria Clinic, at least 2 years after GCS. Anthropometric parameters, patient compliance to ERT, biochemical and hormonal assessment, lumbar spine BMD and fracture risk were evaluated. RESULTS Prevalence of low bone mass (Z-score ≤ -2) was 40% according to the natal gender. In this group, 17β-estradiol levels were significantly lower (median 21 pg/ml [25th-75th percentile 10.6-48.5] vs 63 pg/ml [38.5-99.5]; p < 0.001) and a higher prevalence of low compliance to ERT was recorded (83% vs 29%; p < 0.0001) compared to those with higher bone mass. An intermediate-high fracture risk was found in 14% of the sample. A high percentage (93%) of hypovitaminosis D was present. CONCLUSIONS TW on ERT have a high prevalence of low bone mass, significantly associated with low estradiol levels and low compliance to ERT. A high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D was highlighted. Considering that one out of seven TW showed an intermediate-high 10-year fracture risk, such risk assessment may be considered to prevent and manage osteoporosis in this clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Marinelli
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Barale
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Riccardo Brustio
- NeuroMuscularFunction, Research Group, School of Exercise and Sport Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Manieri
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Ezio Ghigo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Massimo Procopio
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Fabio Lanfranco
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
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Stowell JT, Garner HW, Herrmann S, Tilson K, Stanborough RO. Bone health of transgender adults: what the radiologist needs to know. Skeletal Radiol 2020; 49:1525-1537. [PMID: 32535772 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-020-03511-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Sex steroids are important regulators of bone development before puberty and of bone homeostasis throughout adulthood. Gender-affirming therapies with sex steroids are used in transgender and gender diverse persons for treatment of gender dysphoria, which may have profound impacts on their bone metabolism. Many studies have described variable changes in bone density and geometry in transgender cohorts. In order to provide informed guidance on the effect of gender-affirming therapy, the International Society of Clinical Densitometry issued official position statements in 2019 for the performance and interpretation of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in transgender and gender-diverse patients. We review the effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy on bone physiology and the changes in bone modulation that have been reported in the literature in transgender patients who have received gender-affirming therapy. We also summarize the recent guidelines for interpretation of dual energy x-ray absorptiometry as an update for the radiologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin T Stowell
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA.
| | - Hillary W Garner
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Stephen Herrmann
- Department of Radiology, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6565 Fanin Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kimberly Tilson
- Nurse Care Manager, Behavioral Health Community Access Program, Truman Medical Centers, 2301 Holmes, Kansas City, MO, 64108, USA
| | - Rupert O Stanborough
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
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T'Sjoen G, Arcelus J, De Vries ALC, Fisher AD, Nieder TO, Özer M, Motmans J. European Society for Sexual Medicine Position Statement "Assessment and Hormonal Management in Adolescent and Adult Trans People, With Attention for Sexual Function and Satisfaction". J Sex Med 2020; 17:570-584. [PMID: 32111534 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a general lack of recommendations for and basic information tailored at sexologists and other health-care professionals for when they encounter trans people in their practice. AIM We present to clinicians an up-to-date overview of clinical consensus statements on trans health care with attention for sexual function and satisfaction. METHODS The task force consisted of 7 clinicians experienced in trans health care, selected among European Society for Sexual Medicine (ESSM) scientific committee. The consensus was guided by clinical experience and a review of the available literature and by interactive discussions on trans health, with attention for sexual function and satisfaction where available. OUTCOMES The foci of the study are assessment and hormonal aspects of trans health care. RESULTS As the available literature for direct recommendations was limited, most of the literature was used as background or indirect evidence. Clinical consensus statements were developed based on clinical experiences and the available literature. With the multiple barriers to care that many trans people experience, basic care principles still need to be stressed. We recommend that health-care professionals (HCPs) working with trans people recognize the diversity of genders, including male, female, and nonbinary individuals. In addition, HCPs assessing gender diverse children and adolescents should take a developmental approach that acknowledges the difference between prepubescent gender diverse children and pubescent gender diverse adolescents and trans adults. Furthermore, trans people seeking gender-affirming medical interventions should be assessed by HCPs with expertise in trans health care and gender-affirming psychological practice. If masculinization is desired, testosterone therapy with monitoring of serum sex steroid levels and signs of virilization is recommended. Similarly, if feminization is desired, we recommend estrogens and/or antiandrogen therapy with monitoring of serum sex steroid levels and signs of feminization. HCPs should be aware of the influence of hormonal therapy on sexual functioning and satisfaction. We recommend HCPs be aware of potential sexual problems during all surgical phases of treatment. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS This is an up-to-date ESSM position statement. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS These statements are based on the data that are currently available; however, it is vital to recognize that this is a rapidly changing field and that the literature, particularly in the field of sexual functioning and satisfaction, is limited. CONCLUSION This ESSM position statement provides relevant information and references to existing clinical guidelines with the aim of informing relevant HCPs on best practices when working with transgender people. T'Sjoen G, Arcelus J, De Vries ALC, et al. European Society for Sexual Medicine Position Statement "Assessment and Hormonal Management in Adolescent and Adult Trans People, With Attention for Sexual Function and Satisfaction". J Sex Med 2020;17:570-584.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium.
| | - Jon Arcelus
- Institute of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Annelou L C De Vries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandra D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology, Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Timo O Nieder
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Interdisciplinary Transgender Health Care Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Müjde Özer
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joz Motmans
- Transgender Infopunt, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Defreyne J, Aers XP, Collet SM, Wiepjes CM, Fisher AD, Schreiner T, Den Heijer M, Kaufman JM, T'Sjoen GG. Lower Serum Estradiol Levels in Assigned Female at Birth Transgender People with Initiation of Testosterone Therapy: Results from the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence. LGBT Health 2020; 7:71-81. [DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2019.0260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Justine Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Sarah M. Collet
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chantal M. Wiepjes
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alessandra D. Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Thomas Schreiner
- Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Martin Den Heijer
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jean-Marc Kaufman
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy G.R. T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Defreyne J, Elaut E, Kreukels B, Fisher AD, Castellini G, Staphorsius A, Den Heijer M, Heylens G, T'Sjoen G. Sexual Desire Changes in Transgender Individuals Upon Initiation of Hormone Treatment: Results From the Longitudinal European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence. J Sex Med 2020; 17:812-825. [PMID: 32008926 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several steps in the transitioning process may affect sexual desire in transgender people. This is often underexposed by those providing gender-affirming care. AIM To prospectively assess sexual desire during the first 3 years of hormonal therapy (HT) in transgender people. METHODS This prospective cohort study was part of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence. At baseline, different psychological questionnaires were administered. Sex steroids were measured at each follow-up visit. Data were analyzed cross-sectionally and prospectively. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Prospective analysis of total, dyadic (with another person), and solitary (with oneself) sexual desire in 766 participants (401 transgender women [TW], 364 transgender men [TM]) was carried out using the Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI) questionnaire during a 3-year follow-up period, starting at the initiation of HT. Other factors associated with prospective changes were assessed. RESULTS In TW, total, dyadic, and solitary SDI scores decreased during the first 3 months of HT. However, after 36 months, total and dyadic SDI scores were higher than baseline scores. Solitary scores after 36 months were comparable with baseline scores. In TM, total, dyadic, and solitary SDI scores increased over the first 3 months, remaining stable thereafter. However, total and dyadic SDI scores after 36 months were comparable with baseline scores, whereas solitary scores remained higher than baseline. Factors associated with a prospective increase in SDI scores included having undergone gonadectomy, no longer experiencing menstrual bleeding or higher gender dysphoria levels at baseline (in TM only). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS This study offers clear data on the time course of sexual desire after starting HT and thereby helps to inform people who want to start HT. Transgender people can be informed that changes in sexual desire after initiating HT are temporary. Over a longer period of time, the current research does not suggest induction of hypoactive sexual disorder in TW or long-term increased sexual desire in TM. STRENGTH & LIMITATIONS Strengths include the prospective design of this large multicentric study, the well-defined cohort, controlling for HT, sex steroids, and other factors. Limitations include performing a data lock, the absence of an objective measure of sexual desire, and the timing of laboratory measurements. CONCLUSION Gender-affirming HT only induces short-term changes in sexual desire in transgender people. Over a longer period of time, a net increase in dyadic sexual desire in TW receiving feminizing HT and sexual desire scores comparable with baseline in TM receiving virilizing HT, were observed. Defreyne J, Elaut E, Kreukels B, et al. Sexual Desire Changes in Transgender Individuals Upon Initiation of Hormone Treatment: Results From the Longitudinal European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence Study. J Sex Med 2020;17:812-825.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Els Elaut
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Baudewijntje Kreukels
- Department of Psychology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alessandra Daphne Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Castellini
- Psychiatric Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Annemieke Staphorsius
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin Den Heijer
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gunter Heylens
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium; Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Wiepjes CM, de Blok CJ, Staphorsius AS, Nota NM, Vlot MC, de Jongh RT, den Heijer M. Fracture Risk in Trans Women and Trans Men Using Long-Term Gender-Affirming Hormonal Treatment: A Nationwide Cohort Study. J Bone Miner Res 2020; 35:64-70. [PMID: 31487065 PMCID: PMC7003754 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Concerns about bone health in transgender people using gender-affirming hormonal treatment (HT) exist, but the fracture risk is not known. In this nationwide cohort study, we aimed to compare the fracture incidence in transgender people using long-term HT with an age-matched reference population. All adult transgender people who started HT before 2016 at our gender-identity clinic were included and were linked to a random population-based sample of 5 age-matched reference men and 5 age-matched reference women per person. Fracture incidence was determined using diagnoses from visits to hospital emergency rooms nationwide between 2013 and 2015. A total of 1089 trans women aged <50 years (mean 38 ± 9 years) and 934 trans women aged ≥50 years (mean 60 ± 8 years) using HT for median 8 (interquartile range [IQR] 3-16) and 19 (IQR 11-29) years, respectively, were included. A total of 2.4% of the trans women aged <50 years had a fracture, whereas 3.0% of the age-matched reference men (odds ratio [OR] = 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51-1.19) and 1.6% of the age-matched reference women (OR = 1.49, 95% CI 0.96-2.32) experienced a fracture. In trans women aged ≥50 years, 4.4% experienced a fracture compared with 2.4% of the age-matched reference men (OR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.32-2.74) and 4.2% of the age-matched reference women (OR = 1.05, 95% CI 0.75-1.49). A total of 1036 trans men (40 ± 14 years) using HT for median 9 (IQR 2-22) years were included. Fractures occurred in 1.7% of the trans men, 3.0% of the age-matched reference men (OR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.35-0.94), and 2.2% of the age-matched reference women (OR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.48-1.30). In conclusion, fracture risk was higher in older trans women compared with age-matched reference men. In young trans women, fracture risk tended to be increased compared with age-matched reference women. Fracture risk was not increased in young trans men. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal M Wiepjes
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Christel Jm de Blok
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annemieke S Staphorsius
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nienke M Nota
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mariska C Vlot
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Renate T de Jongh
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Wehrle L. [CME: Hormonal Therapy for Gender Incongruence and Gender Dysphoria]. PRAXIS 2020; 109:361-366. [PMID: 32233766 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157/a003209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
CME: Hormonal Therapy for Gender Incongruence and Gender Dysphoria Abstract. The discrepancy between the inherited gender and the perceived gender identity is called gender incongruity. In this article the major indications, contraindications and therapeutic steps for gender reassignment surgery and hormonal therapy are discussed and summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Wehrle
- Klinik für Reproduktions-Endokrinologie, Universitätsspital Zürich
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Wiepjes CM, den Heijer M, TʼSjoen GG. Bone health in adult trans persons: an update of the literature. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2019; 26:296-300. [PMID: 31573999 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hormonal treatment in trans persons can affect bone health. In this review, recent studies published on this topic in adults are discussed. RECENT FINDINGS Before starting hormonal treatment, trans women were found to have lower bone mineral density than cis men, which seems to be related to lower vitamin D concentrations and lower lean body mass, whereas this was not found in trans men. Short-term and long-term studies show that hormonal treatment does not have detrimental effects on bone mineral density in trans women and trans men. Low estradiol concentrations were associated with a decrease in bone mineral density in trans women. SUMMARY Based on the reassuring findings in these studies, regularly assessing bone mineral density during hormonal treatment does not seem necessary. This confirms the Endocrine Society Guideline stating that bone mineral density should be measured only when risk factors for osteoporosis exist, especially in people who stop hormonal treatment after gonadectomy. The relationship with estradiol concentrations indicate that hormone supplementation should be adequate and therapy compliance should be stimulated. As vitamin D deficiency frequently occurs, vitamin D supplementation should be considered. Future research should focus on fracture risk and long-term changes in bone geometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal M Wiepjes
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Guy G TʼSjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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The Medical Management of Gender Dysphoric, Gender Fluid, Gender Nonconforming, Gender Queer, Nonbinary, and Transgender Patients: One Clinic’s Approach. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-019-00221-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Vlot MC, Wiepjes CM, de Jongh RT, T'Sjoen G, Heijboer AC, den Heijer M. Gender-Affirming Hormone Treatment Decreases Bone Turnover in Transwomen and Older Transmen. J Bone Miner Res 2019; 34:1862-1872. [PMID: 31099910 PMCID: PMC6852079 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroids play a key role in bone turnover and preserving BMD; hence, gender-affirming hormone treatment (HT) in transgender people affects bone metabolism. Most studies have looked into the effect of HT on changes in BMD; however, they do not provide insights into changes in bone metabolism caused by HT. This study investigated changes in bone turnover markers (BTMs) and sclerostin, as well as their correlations with change in BMD in transwomen and transmen during the first year of HT. Transwomen received estradiol and antiandrogens; transmen received testosterone. Sclerostin; P1NP; alkaline phosphatase (ALP); CTx; and BMD of the total hip, the femoral neck, and the lumbar spine were evaluated at baseline and after 1 year of HT. There were 121 transwomen (median age 30 years, interquartile range [IQR] 24 to 41 years) and 132 transmen (median age 24 years, IQR 21 to 33 years) included in the study. In transwomen, ALP decreased in 19% (95% CI, -21 to-16), CTx in 11% (95% CI, -18 to-4), and sclerostin in 8% (95%CI, -13 to-4) of study participants after 1 year of HT. In contrast, in transmen P1NP, ALP, and sclerostin increased in 33% (95% CI, 24 to 42), 16% (95% CI, 12 to 20), and 15% (95% CI, 10 to 20) of study participants, respectively, after 1 year of HT. No age differences were seen in transwomen, whereas in transmen aged ≥50 years a decrease in all BTMs was found in contrast with the other age groups. These transmen had low estrogen concentration at the start of HT based on their postmenopausal state before the start of HT; their estradiol concentrations increased during testosterone treatment. Changes in BTMs and BMD were weakly correlated (correlation coefficient all <0.30). To conclude, 1 year of HT resulted in decreased bone turnover in transwomen and older transmen, whereas it increased in younger transmen. The decrease in bone resorption in older transmen shows the importance of estrogen as a key regulator of bone turnover. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariska C Vlot
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, A, msterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chantal M Wiepjes
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, A, msterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Renate T de Jongh
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, A, msterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annemieke C Heijboer
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, A, msterdam, The Netherlands
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Rosen HN, Hamnvik OPR, Jaisamrarn U, Malabanan AO, Safer JD, Tangpricha V, Wattanachanya L, Yeap SS. Bone Densitometry in Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC) Individuals: 2019 ISCD Official Position. J Clin Densitom 2019; 22:544-553. [PMID: 31327665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocd.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The indications for initial and follow-up bone mineral density (BMD) in transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals are poorly defined, and the choice of which gender database to use to calculate Z-scores is unclear. Herein, the findings of the Task Force are presented after a detailed review of the literature. As long as a TGNC individual is on standard gender-affirming hormone treatment, BMD should remain stable to increasing, so there is no indication to monitor for bone loss or osteoporosis strictly on the basis of TGNC status. TGNC individuals who experience substantial periods of hypogonadism (>1 yr) might experience bone loss or failure of bone accrual during that time, and should be considered for baseline measurement of BMD. To the extent that this hypogonadism continues over time, follow-up measurements can be appropriate. TGNC individuals who have adequate levels of endogenous or exogenous sex steroids can, of course, suffer from other illnesses that can cause osteoporosis and bone loss, such as hyperparathyroidism and steroid use; they should have measurement of BMD as would be done in the cisgender population. There are no data that TGNC individuals have a fracture risk different from that of cisgender individuals, nor any data to suggest that BMD predicts their fracture risk less well than in the cisgender population. The Z-score in transgender individuals should be calculated using the reference data (mean and standard deviation) of the gender conforming with the individual's gender identity. In gender nonconforming individuals, the reference data for the sex recorded at birth should be used. If the referring provider or the individual requests, a set of "male" and "female" Z-scores can be provided, calculating the Z-score against male and female reference data, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold N Rosen
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ole-Petter R Hamnvik
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Unnop Jaisamrarn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Alan O Malabanan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua D Safer
- Mount Sinai Health System, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Lalita Wattanachanya
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Excellence Center for Diabetes, Hormone, and Metabolism, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Swan S Yeap
- Department of Medicine, Subang Jaya Medical Centre, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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Wiepjes CM, Vlot MC, de Blok CJM, Nota NM, de Jongh RT, den Heijer M. Bone geometry and trabecular bone score in transgender people before and after short- and long-term hormonal treatment. Bone 2019; 127:280-286. [PMID: 31271934 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2019.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender-affirming hormonal treatment (HT) in adult transgender people influences bone mineral density (BMD). Besides BMD, bone geometry and trabecular bone score are associated with fracture risk. However, it is not known whether bone geometry and TBS changes during HT. PURPOSE To investigate the bone geometry and TBS in adult transgender people at different time points, up to 25 years, of HT. METHODS A total of 535 trans women and 473 trans men were included, who were divided into three groups at time of their DXA: 20-29 years, 30-39 years, and 40-59 years. Subsequently, each group was divided into different HT durations: baseline, or after 5, 15, or 25 years of HT. Hip structure analysis was performed to measure subperiosteal width, endocortical diameter, average cortical thickness, and section modulus. TBS was calculated based on lumbar spine DXA images. RESULTS In trans women in all age groups and in young trans men, no differences were observed in periosteal width, endocortical diameter, average cortical thickness, and section modulus for different durations of HT. In trans men aged 40-59 years, subperiosteal width, endocortical diameter, and section modulus were slightly higher in the groups who were using HT compared to the (peri- or postmenopausal) baseline group. In younger trans women, TBS tended to be higher in those using HT compared to the baseline groups, and in older trans women TBS was higher in those using HT for 25 years versus baseline (+0.04, 95%CI +0.00; +0.08). In younger trans men, TBS tended to be lower in those who used HT compared to the baseline groups, and in older trans men TBS was lower in those using 5 years HT versus baseline (-0.05, 95%CI -0.08; -0.01). CONCLUSION No differences in cortical bone geometry parameters were found during different HT-durations. TBS increased in trans women and decreased in trans men, indicating that estrogens have positive effects on TBS. These data may be helpful in determining what sex reference values for calculating T-scores and Z-scores in adult transgender people should be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal M Wiepjes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mariska C Vlot
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Christel J M de Blok
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nienke M Nota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Renate T de Jongh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Dobrolińska M, van der Tuuk K, Vink P, van den Berg M, Schuringa A, Monroy-Gonzalez AG, García DV, Schultz WCW, Slart RH. Bone Mineral Density in Transgender Individuals After Gonadectomy and Long-Term Gender-Affirming Hormonal Treatment. J Sex Med 2019; 16:1469-1477. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 06/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Salas-Humara C, Sequeira GM, Rossi W, Dhar CP. Gender affirming medical care of transgender youth. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2019; 49:100683. [PMID: 31735692 PMCID: PMC8496167 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2019.100683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The number of gender diverse and transgender youth presenting for treatment are increasing. This is a vulnerable population with unique medical needs; it is essential that all pediatricians attain an adequate level of knowledge and comfort caring for these youth so that their health outcomes may be improved. There are several organizations which provide clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of transgender youth including the WPATH and the Endocrine Society and they recommend that certain eligibility criteria should be met prior to initiation of gender affirming hormones. Medical intervention for transgender youth can be broken down into stages based on pubertal development: pre-pubertal, pubertal and post-pubertal. Pre-pubertally no medical intervention is recommended. Once puberty has commenced, youth are eligible for puberty blockers; and post-pubertally, youth are eligible for feminizing and masculinizing hormone regimens. Treatment with gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists are used to block puberty. Their function is many-fold: to pause puberty so that the youth may explore their gender identity, to delay the development of (irreversible) secondary sex characteristics, and to obviate the need for future gender affirmation surgeries. Masculinizing hormone regimens consists of testosterone and feminizing hormone regimens consist of both estradiol as well as spironolactone. In short term studies gender affirming hormone treatment with both estradiol and testosterone has been found to be safe and improve mental health and quality of life outcomes; additional long term studies are needed to further elucidate the implications of gender affirming hormones on physical and mental health in transgender patients. There are a variety of surgeries that transgender individuals may desire in order to affirm their gender identity; it is important for providers to understand that desire for medical interventions is variable among persons and that a discussion about individual desires for surgical options is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Salas-Humara
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Gina M Sequeira
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Health, United States
| | - Wilma Rossi
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, United States
| | - Cherie Priya Dhar
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, United States
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Iwamoto SJ, Defreyne J, Rothman MS, Van Schuylenbergh J, Van de Bruaene L, Motmans J, T’Sjoen G. Health considerations for transgender women and remaining unknowns: a narrative review. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2019; 10:2042018819871166. [PMID: 31516689 PMCID: PMC6719479 DOI: 10.1177/2042018819871166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgender (trans) women (TW) were assigned male at birth but have a female gender identity or gender expression. The literature on management and health outcomes of TW has grown recently with more publication of research. This has coincided with increasing awareness of gender diversity as communities around the world identify and address health disparities among trans people. In this narrative review, we aim to comprehensively summarize health considerations for TW and identify TW-related research areas that will provide answers to remaining unknowns surrounding TW's health. We cover up-to-date information on: (1) feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT); (2) benefits associated with GAHT, particularly quality of life, mental health, breast development and bone health; (3) potential risks associated with GAHT, including cardiovascular disease and infertility; and (4) other health considerations like HIV/AIDS, breast cancer, other tumours, voice therapy, dermatology, the brain and cognition, and aging. Although equally deserving of mention, feminizing gender-affirming surgery, paediatric and adolescent populations, and gender nonbinary individuals are beyond the scope of this review. While much of the data we discuss come from Europe, the creation of a United States transgender cohort has already contributed important retrospective data that are also summarized here. Much remains to be determined regarding health considerations for TW. Patients and providers will benefit from larger and longer prospective studies involving TW, particularly regarding the effects of aging, race and ethnicity, type of hormonal treatment (e.g. different oestrogens, anti-androgens) and routes of administration (e.g. oral, parenteral, transdermal) on all the topics we address.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean J. Iwamoto
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, 12801 East 17th Avenue, Mail Stop: 8106, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Justine Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Micol S. Rothman
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | | | - Joz Motmans
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Research on Culture and Gender, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy T’Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Abstract
It is well known that sex steroids, particularly estrogen, play a crucial role in the attainment and maintenance of peak bone density in all people. Transgender (trans) women have been frequently observed to have low bone density prior to initiation of gender-affirming hormone therapy, while trans men generally do not. With pharmacologic estrogen, many studies show improving bone density in trans women. With pharmacologic testosterone, bone density in trans men remains largely unchanged although androgens have indirect effects on bone health via changes in fat and lean mass. Much remains unknown about best practices to optimize bone health, interpret DXA scans and assess fracture risk in trans adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micol S Rothman
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Diabetes, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Avenue, Mail Stop: 8106, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Sean J Iwamoto
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Diabetes, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12801 East 17th Avenue, Mail Stop: 8106, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
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Scharff M, Wiepjes CM, Klaver M, Schreiner T, T’Sjoen G, den Heijer M. Change in grip strength in trans people and its association with lean body mass and bone density. Endocr Connect 2019; 8:1020-1028. [PMID: 31247588 PMCID: PMC6652261 DOI: 10.1530/ec-19-0196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Gender-affirming hormonal treatment (HT) in trans people changes physical appearance. Muscle mass and strength are important aspects of physical appearance, but few data exist on the effect of HT on grip strength and muscle mass. This study aimed to investigate the change in grip strength in trans people during the first year of HT and to study the possible determinants of this change and the associations between changes in grip strength, lean body mass and bone mineral density (BMD). DESIGN AND METHODS A multicenter, prospective study was performed, including 249 transwomen and 278 transmen. Grip strength, lean body mass and BMD were measured at baseline and after 1 year. RESULTS After 1 year of HT, grip strength decreased with -1.8 kg (95% CI -2.6; -1.0) in transwomen and increased with +6.1 kg (95% CI +5.5; +6.7) in transmen. No differences in grip strength change was found between age groups, BMI groups, hormonal administration routes or hormone concentrations. In transmen, increase in grip strength was associated with increase in lean body mass (per kg increase in grip strength: +0.010 kg, 95% CI +0.003; +0.017), while this was not found in transwomen (per kg increase in grip strength: +0.004 kg, 95% CI -0.000; +0.009). Change in grip strength was not associated with change in BMD in transwomen and transmen. CONCLUSIONS After 1 year of HT, grip strength decreased in transwomen, and increased in transmen. In transmen only, change in grip strength was associated with change in lean body mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Scharff
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Chantal Maria Wiepjes
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maartje Klaver
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas Schreiner
- Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Guy T’Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology & Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Correspondence should be addressed to M den Heijer:
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Abstract
This review summarizes current studies, systematic reviews, and clinical practice guidelines regarding the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis in transgender persons. Gender-affirming hormone therapy has been shown to maintain or promote acquisition of bone density as measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. No differences in fracture rates have been seen in trans women or men in short, prospective trials. Trans children and adolescents on gonadotropin-releasing hormone may be at risk for decreasing bone density while not on sex steroid hormone replacement. Screening for osteoporosis should be based on clinical factors. Treatment for osteoporosis follows the same guidelines as cisgender populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary O Stevenson
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle Northeast, WMRB 1028, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle Northeast, WRMB 1301, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Atlanta VA Medical Center, 1670 Clairmont Road Northeast, Decatur, GA 30300, USA.
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Abstract
Prescribing gender-affirming hormonal therapy in transgender men (TM) not only induces desirable physical effects but also benefits mental health. In TM, testosterone therapy is aimed at achieving cisgender male serum testosterone to induce virilization. Testosterone therapy is safe on the short term and middle term if adequate endocrinological follow-up is provided. Transgender medicine is not a strong part of the medical curriculum, although a large number of transgender persons will search for some kind of gender-affirming care. Because hormonal therapy has beneficial effects, all endocrinologists or hormone-prescribing physicians should be able to provide gender-affirming hormonal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium.
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium
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Defreyne J, Kreukels B, T'Sjoen G, Staphorsius A, Den Heijer M, Heylens G, Elaut E. No correlation between serum testosterone levels and state-level anger intensity in transgender people: Results from the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence. Horm Behav 2019; 110:29-39. [PMID: 30822410 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anger is a state of emotions ranging from irritation to intense rage. Aggression implies externalizing anger through destructive/punitive behaviour. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care, Edition 7 (SOC7) guidelines warn about aggression in transgender men (TM) on testosterone treatment. We aimed to assess whether anger intensity increases in TM and decreases in transgender women (TW) after initiation of gender affirming hormone therapy and to identify predictors for anger intensity in transgender people. METHODS This prospective cohort study was part of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). Anger intensity was prospectively assessed in 898 participants (440 TM, 468 TW) by STAXI-2 (State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2) State Anger (S-Anger) during a three-year follow-up period, starting at the initiation of hormone treatment. Data were analysed cross-sectionally and prospectively. RESULTS There was no change in STAXI-2 S-Anger scores. At three, twelve and thirty-six months of gender affirming hormone therapy, STAXI-2 S-Anger scores were not correlated to serum testosterone levels, although there was a correlation with various psychological measures after three and twelve months. TM experiencing menstrual spotting after three months had higher STAXI-2 S-Anger scores compared to those without (median 26.5 [18.0-29.8] versus 15.0 [15.0-17.0], P = 0.020). Changes in STAXI-2 S-Anger scores were not correlated to changes in serum testosterone levels after three, twelve and thirty-six months in TM or TW. CONCLUSIONS State-level anger intensity is associated with psychological and/or psychiatric vulnerability, but not exogenous testosterone therapy or serum testosterone levels in transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Defreyne
- Ghent University Hospital, Department of Endocrinology, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Baudewijntje Kreukels
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, Department of Psychology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Ghent University Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology and Gender, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annemieke Staphorsius
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin Den Heijer
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUmc, Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gunter Heylens
- Ghent University Hospital, Center for Sexology and Gender, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Els Elaut
- Ghent University Hospital, Center for Sexology and Gender, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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