Outcomes of androgen replacement therapy in adult male hypogonadism: recommendations from the Italian society of endocrinology

Novel perspectives of testosterone therapy in men with functional hypogonadism: traversing the gaps of knowledge

INTRODUCTION

In the past decade, there has been a significant augmentation in the corpus of evidence pertaining to functional hypogonadism. Despite this, prevailing clinical guidelines continue to advise against the universal screening for hypogonadism in middle-aged and elderly males.

FINDINGS

Numerous randomized controlled trials have scrutinized the effects of testosterone therapy in males afflicted with type 2 diabetes and/or obesity. However, these guidelines uniformly assert that lifestyle modifications and weight reduction should be the primary intervention strategies in overweight and obese males, relegating testosterone therapy to a secondary, selective option. It is extensively documented that testosterone therapy can yield substantial improvements in various metabolic parameters as well as ameliorate symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Moreover, recent studies have demonstrated the potential of testosterone therapy in reversing type 2 diabetes in males with low-normal testosterone levels who are at elevated risk for this condition, in comparison to the outcomes achievable through lifestyle modifications alone.

CONCLUSION

This focused review article aims to present a comprehensive update on the latest data concerning the innovative aspects of testosterone therapy in males with functional hypogonadism, particularly in the context of type 2 diabetes and/or obesity. Additionally, it will delve into the cardiovascular safety of such interventions within this high-risk demographic, with a special emphasis on insights gleaned from the TRAVERSE trial.

Testosterone: A Review for Orthopaedic Surgeons

» Testosterone replacement treatment (TRT) and anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) use is common and possibly increasing.» Diagnosing and treating hypogonadism in men is controversial.» Hypogonadism and the use of AASs seem to have a detrimental effect on the musculoskeletal system. The current literature on TRT and the musculoskeletal system shows an increased risk of tendon injury.» There may be a role for testosterone supplementation in the postoperative period.

Skeletal Muscle Evaluation in Patients With Acromegaly

Context

Patients with acromegaly are characterized by chronic exposure to high growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 levels, known for their anabolic effect on skeletal muscle. Therefore, an increased skeletal muscle mass could be hypothesized in these individuals. Herein, we have performed a systematic revision of published evidence regarding skeletal muscle mass, quality, and performance in patients with acromegaly.

Evidence Acquisition

A systematic review of the literature in the PubMed database up to September 1, 2023, was conducted with the following query: acromegaly AND ("muscle mass" OR "skeletal muscle"). We excluded studies that did not compare different disease states or used nonradiological methods for the skeletal muscle analyses, except for bioelectrical impedance analysis.

Evidence Synthesis

Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 360 patients were evaluated for skeletal muscle mass, 122 for muscle fatty atrophy, and 192 for muscle performance. No clear evidence of increased skeletal muscle mass in patients with active disease compared to control or healthy individuals emerged. As for skeletal muscle quality, we observed a trend toward higher fatty infiltration among patients with acromegaly compared to healthy participants. Likewise, patients with active disease showed consistently worse physical performance compared to control or healthy individuals.

Conclusion

Skeletal muscle in acromegaly has lower quality and performance compared to that of healthy individuals. The small number of published studies and multiple confounding factors (eg, use of different radiological techniques) contributed to mixed results, especially regarding skeletal muscle mass. Well-designed prospective studies are needed to investigate skeletal muscle mass in patients with acromegaly.

Adult- and late-onset male hypogonadism: the clinical practice guidelines of the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE)

PURPOSE

To provide the evidence-based recommendations on the role of testosterone (T) on age-related symptoms and signs remains.

METHODS

The Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) and the and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE) commissioned an expert task force to provide an updated guideline on adult-onset male hypogonadism. Derived recommendations were based on Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

RESULTS

Clinical diagnosis of adult-onset hypogonadism should be based on a combination of clinical and biochemical parameters. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) should be offered to all symptomatic subjects with hypogonadism after the exclusion of possible contraindications. T gels and the long-acting injectable T are currently available preparations showing the best efficacy/safety profile. TRT can improve all aspects of sexual function, although its effect is limited in more complicated patients. Body composition (reducing fat mass and increasing lean mass) is improved after TRT, either in subjects with or without metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes. Conversely, the role of TRT in improving glycometabolic control is more conflicting. TRT can result in increasing bone mineral density, particularly at lumbar site, but no information on fracture risk is available. Limited data support the use of TRT for improving other outcomes, including mood frailty and mobility.

CONCLUSIONS

TRT can improve sexual function and body composition particularly in less complicated adult and in aging subjects with hypogonadism. When hypogonadism is adequately diagnosed, T appropriately prescribed and subjects correctly followed up, no short-term increased risk of adverse events is observed. Longer and larger studies are advisable to better clarify TRT long-term efficacy/safety profile.

[Testosterone treatment]

Male hypogonadism is a congenital or acquired disorder that exerts a negative influence on various organ functions and can massively impair the quality of life through the relative or absolute deficiency of testosterone. A variety of preparations are available for substitution treatment, which differ in administration form and intake interval. For the execution of testosterone treatment various guidelines exist with clear and practical instructions on the indications, contraindications, treatment procedure and monitoring. Of particular importance are cardiovascular aspects and diseases of the prostate gland, which underlines the central position of the urologist in the treatment.

[Adverse effects of opioids, antidepressants and anticonvulsants on sex hormones : Often unnoticed but clinically relevant]

Androgen insufficiency under treatment with opioids, antidepressants and anticonvulsants in chronic pain diseases is a side effect with a high prevalence. It can lead to clinical metabolic alterations, adynamia, stress intolerance, anemia or osteoporosis and has a significant impact on the quality of life. Opioids, antidepressants and anticonvulsants affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of sex hormones. A urologist, andrologist or endocrinologist should be involved in the treatment at an early stage. The recommendation of a differential therapeutic selection of certain substances is only indicative and does not meet evidential criteria. The indications for androgen substitution must be individualized and in consideration of the risk-benefit profile. Awareness of this side effect of an otherwise lege artis medicinal pain therapy must be sharpened and compulsory included in the differential diagnostic considerations.

Testosterone, Hypogonadism, and Heart Failure

Male hypogonadism is defined as low circulating testosterone level associated with signs and symptoms of testosterone deficiency. Although the bidirectional link between hypogonadism and cardiovascular disease has been clarified, the association between testosterone and chronic heart failure (HF) is more controversial. Herein, we critically review published studies relating to testosterone, hypogonadism, and HF and provide practical clinical information on proper diagnosis and treatment of male hypogonadism in patients with HF. In general, published studies are extremely heterogeneous, frequently have not adhered to hypogonadism guidelines, and suffer from many intrinsic methodological inaccuracies; therefore, data provide only low-quality evidence. Nevertheless, by selecting the few methodologically robust studies, we show the prevalence of testosterone deficiency (30%-50%) and symptomatic hypogonadism (15%) in men with HF is significant. Low testosterone correlates with HF severity, New York Heart Association class, exercise functional capacity, and a worse clinical prognosis and mortality. Interventional studies on testosterone treatment in men with HF are inconclusive but do suggest beneficial effects on exercise capacity, New York Heart Association class, metabolic health, and cardiac prognosis. We suggest that clinicians should measure testosterone levels in men with HF who have symptoms of a testosterone deficiency and conditions that predispose to hypogonadism, such as obesity and diabetes. These patients-if diagnosed as hypogonadal-may benefit from the short- and long-term effects of testosterone replacement therapy, which include improvements in both cardiac prognosis and systemic outcomes. Further collaborative studies involving both cardiologists and endocrinologists are warranted.

Sex-specific effects of daily tadalafil on diabetic heart kinetics in RECOGITO, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Cyclic GMP-phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibition has been shown to counteract maladaptive cardiac changes triggered by diabetes in some but not all studies. We performed a single-center, 20-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (NCT01803828) to assess sex differences in cardiac remodeling after PDE5 inhibition in patients with diabetic cardiomyopathy. A total of 122 men and women (45 to 80 years) with long-duration (>3 years) and well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM; HbA1c < 86 mmol/mol) were selected according to echocardiographic signs of cardiac remodeling. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to placebo or oral tadalafil (20 mg, once daily). The primary outcome was to evaluate sex differences in cardiac torsion change. Secondary outcomes were changes in cardiovascular, metabolic, immune, and renal function. At 20 weeks, the treatment-by-sex interaction documented an improvement in cardiac torsion (-3.40°, -5.96; -0.84, P = 0.011) and fiber shortening (-1.19%, -2.24; -0.14, P = 0.027) in men but not women. The primary outcome could not be explained by differences in cGMP concentrations or tadalafil pharmacodynamics. In both sexes, tadalafil improved hsa-miR-199-5p expression, biomarkers of cardiovascular remodeling, albuminuria, renal artery resistive index, and circulating Klotho concentrations. Immune cell profiling revealed an improvement in low-grade chronic inflammation: Classic CD14⁺⁺CD16^- monocytes reduced, and Tie2⁺ monocytes increased. Nine patients (14.5%) had minor adverse reactions after tadalafil administration. Continuous PDE5 inhibition could offer a strategy to target cardiorenal complications of T2DM, with sex- and tissue-specific responses. Further studies are needed to confirm Klotho and hsa-miR-199-5p as markers for T2DM complications.

Testosterone supplementation and bone parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis study

BACKGROUND

The role of testosterone (T) replacement therapy (TRT) in subjects with late onset hypogonadism is still the object of an intense debate.

METHODS

All observational studies and placebo-controlled or -uncontrolled randomized trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of TRT on different bone parameters were considered.

RESULTS

Out of 349 articles, 36 were considered, including 3103 individuals with a mean trial duration of 66.6 weeks. TRT improves areal bone mineral density (aBMD) at the spine and femoral neck levels in observational studies, whereas placebo-controlled RTCs showed a positive effect of TRT only at lumber spine and when trials included only hypogonadal patients at baseline (total testosterone < 12 nM). The effects on aBMD were more evident in subjects with lower T levels at baseline and increased as a function of trial duration and a higher prevalence of diabetic subjects. Either T or estradiol increase at endpoint contributed to aBMD improvement. TRT was associated with a significant reduction of bone resorption markers in observational but not in controlled studies.

CONCLUSION

TRT is able to inhibit bone resorption and increase bone mass, particularly at the lumbar spine level and when the duration is long enough to allow the anabolic effect of T and estrogens on bone metabolism to take place.

Mechanisms affecting brain remodeling in depression: do all roads lead to impaired fibrinolysis?

Fibrinolysis occurs when plasminogen activators, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), convert plasminogen to plasmin, which dissolves the fibrin clot. The proteolytic activity of tPA and plasmin is not restricted to fibrin degradation. In the extravascular space, these two proteases modify a variety of substrates other than fibrin, playing a crucial role in physiological and pathological tissue remodeling. In the brain, for example, tPA and plasmin mediate the conversion of brain-derived neurotrophic factor precursor (proBDNF) to mature brain-derived neurotrophic factor precursor (BDNF). Thus, the fibrinolytic system influences processes reported to be dysfunctional in depression, including neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and reward processing. The hypothesis that decreased fibrinolytic activity is an important element in the pathogenesis of depression is supported by the association between depression and increased levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1, the main inhibitor of tPA. Also, various biochemical markers of depression induce PAI-1 synthesis, including hypercortisolism, hyperinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia, increased levels of cytokines, and hyperhomocysteinemia. Moreover, hypofibrinolysis provides a link between depression and emotional eating, binge eating, vegetarianism, and veganism. This paper discusses the role of reduced fibrinolytic activity in the bidirectional interplay between depression and its somatic manifestations and complications. It also reviews evidence that abnormal fibrinolysis links heterogeneous conditions associated with treatment-resistant depression. Understanding the role of hypofibrinolysis in depression may open new avenues for its treatment.

Current use of testosterone therapy in LGBTQ populations

Testosterone therapy (TT) is a type of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and genderqueer (LGBTQ) populations for gender dysphoria (GD), body uneasiness, and sexual dysfunction. The physical and physiological effects of TT vary widely depending on the dosing regimen and duration of treatment. An individualized approach prioritizing patient-specific desired effects in the context of pre-existing characteristics and health history is strongly recommended. Although TT is an effective treatment for many patients, there has been an increase in the illegitimate acquisition of TT in recent years. Non-judicious prescribing and lack of physician surveillance increases the risk of unintended side effects and potential serious health consequences.

Metabolic and Endocrine Toxicities of Mitotane: A Systematic Review

Simple Summary

This is, to our knowledge, the first systematic review conducted on the endocrine effects of mitotane, which aims to collect all available evidence in the literature and provide complete and useful information regarding the management of the endocrine and metabolic side effects of mitotane in clinical practice.

Abstract

Despite the pivotal role of mitotane in adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) management, data on the endocrine toxicities of this treatment are lacking. The aim of this systematic review is to collect the available evidence on the side effects of mitotane on the endocrine and metabolic systems in both children and adults affected by adrenal carcinoma. Sixteen articles on 493 patients were included. Among the adrenal insufficiency, which is an expected side effect of mitotane, 24.5% of patients increased glucocorticoid replacement therapy. Mineralocorticoid insufficiency usually occurred late in treatment in 36.8% of patients. Thyroid dysfunction is characterized by a decrease in FT4, which occurs within 3–6 months of treatment in 45.4% of patients, while TSH seems to not be a reliable marker. Dyslipidemia is characterized by an increase in both LDL-c and HDL-c (54.2%). Few studies have found evidence of hypertriglyceridemia. In males, gynecomastia and hypogonadism can occur after 3–6 months of treatment (38.4% and 35.6%, respectively), while in pre-menopausal women, mitotane can cause ovarian cysts and, less frequently, menstrual disorders. Most of these side effects appear to be reversible after mitotane discontinuation. We finally suggest an algorithm that could guide metabolic and endocrine safety assessments in patients treated with mitotane for ACC.

Testosterone therapy and cardiovascular diseases

Since it was first synthesised in 1935, testosterone (T) has been viewed as the mythical Fountain of Youth, promising rejuvenation, restoring sexual appetites, growing stronger muscles, and quicker thinking. T is endowed with direct effects on myocardial and vascular structure and function, as well as on risk factors for cardiovascular (CV) disease. Indeed, low serum T levels are a risk factor for diabetes, metabolic syndrome, inflammation, and dyslipidaemia. Moreover, many studies have shown that T deficiency per se is an independent risk factor of CV and all-cause mortality. On this background and due to direct-to-patient marketing by drug companies, we have witnessed to the widespread use of T replacement therapy (TT) without clear indications particularly in late-life onset hypogonadism. The current review will dwell upon current evidence and controversies surrounding the role of T in the pathophysiology of CV diseases, the link between circulating T levels and CV risk, and the use of replacing T as a possible adjuvant treatment in specific CV disorders. Specifically, recent findings suggest that heart failure and type 2 diabetes mellitus represent two potential targets of T therapy once that a state of hypogonadism is diagnosed. However, only if ongoing studies solve the CV safety issue the T orchid may eventually 'bloom'.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Sexual and Reproductive Health-2021 Update: Male Sexual Dysfunction

CONTEXT

The present summary of the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines is based on the latest guidelines on male sexual health published in March 2021, with a last comprehensive update in January 2021.

OBJECTIVE

To present a summary of the 2021 version of the EAU guidelines on sexual and reproductive health.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A literature review was performed up to January 2021. The guidelines were updated, and a strength rating for each recommendation was included based on either a systematic review of the evidence or a consensus opinion from the expert panel.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Late-onset hypogonadism is a clinical condition in the ageing male combining low levels of circulating testosterone and specific symptoms associated with impaired hormone production and/or action. A comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic work-up, along with screening recommendations and contraindications, is provided. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to attain and maintain an erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual performance. Along with a detailed basic and advanced diagnostic approach, a novel decision-making algorithm for treating ED in order to better tailor therapy to individual patients is provided. The EAU guidelines have adopted the definition of premature ejaculation (PE), which has been developed by the International Society for Sexual Medicine. After the subtype of PE has been defined, patient's expectations should be discussed thoroughly and pharmacotherapy must be considered as the first-line treatment for patients with lifelong PE, whereas treating the underlying cause must be the initial goal for patients with acquired PE. Haemospermia is defined as the appearance of blood in the ejaculate. Several reasons of haemospermia have been acknowledged; the primary goal over the management work-up is to exclude malignant conditions and treat any other underlying cause.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2021 guidelines on sexual and reproductive health summarise the most recent findings, and advise in terms of diagnosis and treatment of male hypogonadism and sexual dysfunction for their use in clinical practice. These guidelines reflect the multidisciplinary nature of their management.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Updated European Association of Urology guidelines on sexual and reproductive health are presented, addressing the diagnosis and treatment of the most prevalent conditions in men. Patients must be fully informed of all relevant diagnostic and therapeutic options and, together with their treating physicians, decide on optimal personalised management strategies.

Cardiovascular risk and testosterone - from subclinical atherosclerosis to lipoprotein function to heart failure

The cardiovascular (CV) benefit and safety of treating low testosterone conditions is a matter of debate. Although testosterone deficiency has been linked to a rise in major adverse CV events, most of the studies on testosterone replacement therapy were not designed to assess CV risk and thus excluded men with advanced heart failure or recent history of myocardial infarction or stroke. Besides considering observational, interventional and prospective studies, this review article evaluates the impact of testosterone on atherosclerosis process, including lipoprotein functionality, progression of carotid intima media thickness, inflammation, coagulation and thromboembolism, quantification of plaque volume and vascular calcification. Until adequately powered studies evaluating testosterone effects in hypogonadal men at increased CV risk are available (TRAVERSE trial), clinicians should ponder the use of testosterone in men with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and discuss benefit and harms with the patients.

Quality of life in Klinefelter patients on testosterone replacement therapy compared to healthy controls: an observational study on the impact of psychological distress, personality traits, and coping strategies

PURPOSE

We aimed to verify if 1 year-testosterone-replacement therapy could produce a psychopathological recovery and a satisfactory quality of life in Klinefelter syndrome (KS) patients compared to matched healthy controls. Further, we analyzed personality traits and coping strategies, an issue not yet examined in androgen-treated KS patients. We also enquired whether any of the sociodemographic and psychological variables might predict a patient's general and sexual life satisfaction.

METHODS

The Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Temperament and Character Inventory-Revised were administered to both 23 KS patients and matched healthy subjects. Psychopathology was investigated by the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) and the Mini-mental State Examination. The COPE Inventory was used to identify cognitive and behavioral strategies to manage disease-related distress.

RESULTS

In testosterone-treated KS patients, when compared with controls, SCL-90-R subscales analysis evidenced high psychological distress, mainly presented as obsessive thoughts, hanger-hostility, phobias, and psychoticism. Self-directedness and self-transcendence, along with the prevalent use of emotion-focused coping strategies, outlined the personality of our KS patients. Depression and somatization proved to be predictors of general life dissatisfaction. Depression, anger-hostility, and paranoid ideation, instead, emerged as predictors of sexual life dissatisfaction.

CONCLUSION

Endocrinologists should cooperate with mental health providers to foster a better outcome of the disease in KS patients.

Hypogonadism and bone health in men with HIV

The advent of new classes of antiretroviral drugs has improved the survival of people with HIV, and several ageing-related conditions, including hypogonadism and osteoporosis, have emerged. However, both are silent conditions, and are underestimated, underdiagnosed, and not adequately treated. Several factors, including the effects of the virus, antiretroviral therapy, lifestyle factors, and comorbidities, contribute to testicular dysfunction, which in turn has important effects on bone health. The prevalence of hypogonadism is approximately 20% among men with HIV, but extreme variability in the laboratory and clinical assessment of hypogonadism is reported. The prevalence of osteoporosis is 10-30%, but the poor quality of most studies does not allow definitive conclusions on clinical management. Nonetheless, the early and detailed evaluation of gonadal function and bone health is crucial for improving the quality of life of men with HIV.

Late-onset hypogonadism: Reductio ad absurdum of the cardiovascular risk-benefit of testosterone replacement therapy

BACKGROUND

Low testosterone (T) level is considered a marker of poor cardiovascular health. Ten years ago, the Testosterone in Older Men with Mobility Limitations (TOM) trial was discontinued due to a higher number of adverse events in men receiving T compared with placebo. Since then, several studies have investigated the risks of T replacement therapy (TRT) in late-onset hypogonadism (LOH).

OBJECTIVE

To review the mechanism by which TRT could damage the cardiovascular system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Comprehensive literature search of recent clinical and experimental studies.

RESULTS

The mechanisms of T-mediated coronary vasodilation were reviewed with emphasis on calcium-activated and ATP-sensitive potassium ion channels. We showed how T regulates endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/eNOS signaling pathways in vessel walls and its direct effects on cardiomyocytes via β1-adrenergic and ryanodine receptors and provided data on myocardial infarction and heart failure. Vascular smooth muscle senescence could be explained by the modulation of growth factors, matrix metalloproteinase-2, and angiotensin II by T. Furthermore, leukocyte trafficking, facilitated by changes in TNF-α, could explain some of the effects of T on atheromatous plaques. Conflicting data on prothrombotic risk linked to platelet aggregation inhibition via NO-triggered arachidonate synthesis or increased aggregability due to enhanced thromboxane A in human platelets provide evidence regarding the hypotheses on plaque maturation and rupture risk. The effects of T on cardiac electrophysiology and oxygen delivery were also reviewed.

DISCUSSION

The effects of TRT on the cardiovascular system are complex. Although molecular studies suggest a potential benefit, several clinical observations reveal neutral or occasionally detrimental effects, mostly due to confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Attempts to demonstrate that TRT damages the cardiovascular system via systematic analysis of the putative mechanisms led to the contradiction of the initial hypothesis. Current evidence indicates that TRT is safe once other comorbidities are addressed.

Treatment of Functional Hypogonadism Besides Pharmacological Substitution

A dichotomic distinction between "organic" and "functional" hypogonadism is emerging. The former is an irreversible condition due to congenital or "acquired" "organic" damage of the brain centers or of the testis. Conversely, the latter is a potentially reversible form, characterized by borderline low testosterone (T) levels mainly secondary to age-related comorbidities and metabolic derangements, including metabolic syndrome (MetS). Life-style modifications, - here reviewed and, when possible, meta-analyzed -, have documented that weight-loss and physical exercise are able to improve obesity-associated functional hypogonadism and its related sexual symptoms. A rabbit experimental model, of MetS originally obtained in our lab, showed that endurance training (PhyEx) completely reverted MetS-induced hypogonadotropic hypogonadism by reducing hypothalamus inflammation and testis fibrosis eventually allowing for a better corpora cavernosa relaxation and response to sildenafil. Physicians should strongly adapt all the reasonable strategies to remove/mitigate the known conditions underlying functional hypogonadism, including MetS and obesity. Physical limitations, including reduced muscle mass and increased fat mass, along with low self-confidence, also due to the sexual problems, might limit a subject's propensity to increase physical activity and dieting. A short term T treatment trial, by improving muscle mass and sexual function, might help hypogonadal obese patients to overcome the overfed, inactive state and to become physically and psychologically ready for changing their lifestyle.

High prevalence of cardiometabolic risk features in adolescents with 47,XXY/Klinefelter syndrome

Klinefelter syndrome (KS) occurs in 1:600 males and is associated with high morbidity and mortality due to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Up to 50% of men with KS have metabolic syndrome, a cluster of features conferring increased risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These cardiometabolic (CM) risk features have not been studied in adolescents with KS. The objective of this cohort study was to compare CM risk features in adolescents with KS to controls matched for sex, age, and BMI z score. Fifty males with KS (age 10-17 years) were well-matched to male controls (n = 50) for age (14.0 ± 1.7 vs. 14.0 ± 1.5 years) and BMI z score (0.3 ± 1.3 vs. 0.4 ± 1.2). Three CM risk features were present in 30% of adolescents with KS compared to 12% of controls (RR 2.5, 95% CI 1.1-5.9, p = .048). The KS group had significantly lower HDL cholesterol (p = .006), higher triglycerides (p < .001), and greater waist circumference percentile (p < .001). Despite a normal BMI, the prevalence of CM risk features was very high in adolescents with KS, particularly for central adiposity and dyslipidemia. The pathophysiology of this metabolic profile independent of obesity needs further investigation to facilitate prevention of the high morbidity of cardiovascular disease and diabetes in this population. ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT01585831 and NCT02723305.

Human papillomavirus and risk of prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: There is growing evidence showing a putative association between high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection and an increased risk of PCa.Objective: The aim of the current meta-analysis was to evaluate the association between HPV infection and PCa risk.Methods: This analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines. We included all studies on HPV DNA or antibodies detected in biopsy tissues or sera. Available data were extracted from the article, including means and standard deviations in all case-control groups.Results: Thirty studies that investigated the link between HPV-16 and -18 were identified as eligible for this systematic review and meta-analysis, including a total of 6321 participants. The pooled OR showed increased risk of PCa (OR =1.37; p < .01) in men positive for HPV-16. There were seven studies with 2391 PCa cases and 4059 controls investigating the association between HPV-18 infection and PCa risk. Significant heterogeneity between study was found in the pooled analyzes. The pooled OR did not show increased risk of PCa (OR =0.80; p = .49) in men positive for HPV-18.Conclusions: This meta-analysis suggests that HPV-16 infection could represent a risk factor for PCa, whereas we found no such association for HPV-18. Further well-conducted studies could be useful to confirm this conclusion.

The use of prohibited substances for therapeutic reasons in athletes affected by endocrine diseases and disorders: the therapeutic use exemption (TUE) in clinical endocrinology

To protect sporting ethics and athletes' health, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) produced the World Anti-Doping Code and The Prohibited List of substances and methods forbidden in sports. In accordance with the International Standards for Therapeutic Use Exemption (ISTUE), to avoid rule violations and sanctions, athletes affected by different endocrine diseases and disorders (e.g., adrenal insufficiency, diabetes, male hypogonadisms, pituitary deficit, thyroid diseases, etc.) who need to use a prohibited substance for therapeutic reasons (e.g., medical treatments, surgical procedures, clinical diagnostic investigations) must apply to their respective Anti-Doping Organizations (ADOs) to obtain a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE), if specific criteria are respected. The physicians who treat these athletes (i.e., endocrinologists, andrologists and diabetologists) are highly involved in these procedures and should be aware of their specific role and responsibility in applying for a TUE, and in adequately monitoring unhealthy athletes treated with prohibited substances. In this paper, the prohibited substances commonly used for therapeutic reasons in endocrine diseases and disorders (e.g., corticotropins, beta-blockers, glucocorticoids, hCG, insulin, GnRH, rhGH, testosterone, etc.), the role of physicians in the TUE application process and the general criteria used by ADO-Therapeutic Use Exemption Committees (TUECs) for granting a TUE are described.

European Academy of Andrology (EAA) guidelines on investigation, treatment and monitoring of functional hypogonadism in males: Endorsing organization: European Society of Endocrinology

BACKGROUND

Evidence regarding functional hypogonadism, previously referred to as 'late-onset' hypogonadism, has increased substantially during the last 10 year.

OBJECTIVE

To update the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) guidelines on functional hypogonadism.

METHODS

Expert group of academicians appointed by the EAA generated a series of consensus recommendations according to the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system.

RESULTS

The diagnosis of functional hypogonadism should be based on both the presence of clinical symptoms supported by repeatedly low morning fasting serum total testosterone (T) measured with a well-validated assay, after exclusion of organic causes of hypogonadism. Lifestyle changes and weight reduction should be the first approach in all overweight and obese men. Whenever possible, withdrawal/modification of drugs potentially interfering with T production should be advised. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is contraindicated in men with untreated prostate or breast cancer, as well as severe heart failure. Severe low urinary tract symptoms and haematocrit >48%-50% represent relative contraindications for TRT. Prostate-specific antigen and digital rectal examination of the prostate should be undertaken in men >40 years of age before initiating TRT to exclude occult prostate cancer. Transdermal T should be preferred for initiation of TRT, whereas gonadotrophin therapy is only recommended when fertility is desired in men with secondary hypogonadism. TRT is able to improve sexual function in hypogonadal men. Other potential positive outcomes of TRT remain uncertain and controversial.

CONCLUSION

TRT can reliably improve global sexual function in men with hypogonadism in the short term. Long-term clinical benefits, and safety of TRT in functional hypogonadism, remain to be fully documented. Clinicians should therefore explicitly discuss the uncertainties and benefits of TRT and engage them in shared management decision-making.

Male and female sexual dysfunction in diabetic subjects: Focus on new antihyperglycemic drugs

The association between diabetes mellitus (and its micro- and macro-vascular complications) and erectile dysfunction is widely known and the presence of hypogonadism may further complicate sexual dysfunction and quality of life, given the association between hypogonadism and reduced libido, ejaculatory disorders, and depressive symptoms. However, the recent introduction of novel antidiabetic agents with a wide range of mechanism of action may have a significant impact both on male and female sexuality directly (by inducing side effects as urinary tract infections) and indirectly (improving metabolic status and reducing diabetes complications behind sexual dysfunctions). To date only few papers are reporting the sexual effects of these treatments and, often, these are not comparable in their results. Conversely, female sexual dysfunctions are somehow under-investigated. Data on prevalence is heterogeneous and specific pathogenic mechanisms, as well as the burden of psychological factors, are still heatedly debated. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize current knowledge and stressing out the need to diagnose male and female sexual dysfunctions also in light of the impact of treatments with novel antidiabetic agents. This would highlight the still unmet needs for sexual care in a diabetes care setting and could represent an incentive for future discussions, as well as a required theoretical starting point for studies on this subject.

Prolonged use of finasteride-induced gonadal sex steroids alterations, DNA damage and menstrual bleeding in women

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of prolonged use of finasteride on serum levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), estradiol (E2), progesterone, testosterone and androstenedione in women during the menstrual period. Further, to screen and compare the 5α-reductase activities through the expression of SRD5A1, SRD5A2 and AR gene and to determine the level of VEGF, VKOR and SAA gene expression and DNA damage. A total of 30 Saudi women aged between 25 and 35 years were enrolled in the study. The selected women were divided into two groups. The first group (n = 15) received 5 mg finasteride/day for prolonged period of one year and second group (n = 15) was taken as a healthy control. ELISA technique was used for measuring the serum levels of the targeted hormones, and Comet assay was used for checking the DNA integrity. Our findings revealed significant decrement of DHT, E2, progesterone and androstenedione levels and elevated levels of testosterone in group treated with daily oral doses of 5 mg finasteride/day compared with the control subjects. mRNA expression suggested that finasteride has concrete effects on the gene expression of the selected genes from the treated group in comparison with the control group. In addition, finasteride induced DNA damage, and heavy menstrual bleeding was noted in women treated with finasteride. In conclusion, the present findings revealed that finasteride has adverse health effects in women associated with gonadal sex steroids alterations, DNA damage and heavy menstrual bleeding with no consensus in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women.

Increased DHEAS and Decreased Total Testosterone Serum Levels in a Subset of Men with Early-Onset Androgenetic Alopecia: Does a Male PCOS-Equivalent Exist?

BACKGROUND

Increased dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) levels have been reported in men with early-onset (<35 years) androgenetic alopecia (AGA). It has been suggested that a male polycystic ovarian syndrome- (PCOS-) equivalent, defined as an endocrine syndrome with a metabolic background and a PCOS-like hormonal pattern, predisposing to type II diabetes mellitus (DM II), cardiovascular and prostate diseases later in life, may occur in at least a part of these men. The gonadal function, including sperm parameters and total testosterone (TT) levels, has been investigated in a low number of these men.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess gonadal and adrenal function in a subset of men with early-onset AGA and controls.

METHODS

43 men with early-onset AGA and 36 controls were screened for DHEAS, TT, glycaemia, insulin, gonadotropins, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17n = 21), as those with at least one of the following parameters: body mass index (BMI) >25 kg/m², insulin resistance (IR), and/or SHBG <25 nmol/l.

RESULTS

Patients with early-onset AGA had higher mean (±SD) BMI (25.5 ± 3.8 vs. 23.7 ± 3.0 kg/m²; P < 0.05) and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17P < 0.05) and 17P < 0.05) and 17P < 0.05) and 17P < 0.05) and 17μg/dl; P < 0.05) and 17P < 0.05) and 17P < 0.05) and 17P < 0.05) and 17.

CONCLUSION

Men with early-onset AGA and at least one among BMI >25 kg/m², IR, and SHBG <25 nmol/l have increased DHEAS levels and a worse gonadal steroidogenesis. They might have a greater risk to develop gonadal dysfunction later in life. These criteria may be used to define male PCOS-equivalent.

Late Effects of Parasellar Lesion Treatment: Hypogonadism and Infertility

Central hypogonadism, also defined as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, is a recognized complication of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis damage following treatment of sellar and parasellar masses. In addition to radiotherapy and surgery, CTLA4-blocking antibodies and alkylating agents such as temozolomide can also lead to hypogonadism, through different mechanisms. Central hypogonadism in boys and girls may lead to pubertal delay or arrest, impairing full development of the genitalia and secondary sexual characteristics. Alternatively, cranial irradiation or ectopic hormone production may instead cause early puberty, affecting hypothalamic control of the gonadostat. Given the reproductive risks, discussion of fertility preservation options and referral to reproductive specialists before treatment is essential. Steroid hormone replacement can interfere with other replacement therapies and may require specific dose adjustments. Adequate gonadotropin stimulation therapy may enable patients to restore gametogenesis and conceive spontaneously. When assisted reproductive technology is needed, protocols must be tailored to account for possible long-term gonadotropin insufficiency prior to stimulation. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of the risk factors for hypogonadism and infertility in patients treated for parasellar lesions and to give a summary of the current recommendations for management and follow-up of these dysfunctions in such patients. We have also briefly summarized evidence on the physiological role of pituitary hormones during pregnancy, focusing on the management of pituitary deficiencies.

Effects of transdermal administration of testosterone gel on the urinary steroid profile in hypogonadal men: Implications in antidoping analysis

Testosterone is one of the most abused pseudo-endogenous anabolic steroids in sport doping. The current method adopted to detect the abuse of testosterone and other pseudo-endogenous steroids (endogenous steroids when administered exogenously) is first based on the longitudinal monitoring of several urinary biomarkers, which constitute the so called "steroidal module" of the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP): atypical samples undergo a confirmation analysis based on the measurement of the ¹³C/¹²C isotopic ratio of selected target compounds, to distinguish their endogenous or exogenous origin. At the same time, testosterone administration can be allowed in athletes diagnosed with hypogonadism, provided they are granted a therapeutic use exemption by the relevant medical authority. In this pilot study we have investigated whether the approach based on the preliminary determination of the urinary steroid profile, in the format considered in the steroidal module of the ABP, also integrated with the inclusion of the sulfo-conjugates and of additional target steroids, can retain its validity also in the case of hypogonadal athletes. We have studied the effects of a single low dose (40 mg) of testosterone gel (T-gel) on the urinary concentration of the markers of steroidal module of the ABP, as well as on some additional steroid markers. The study was based on the analysis of urinary samples from 19 non-hospitalized hypogonadal men, 10 of them with late-onset hypogonadism (LOH), collected before, after 4 h and after 24 h the transdermal self-administration of 40 mg of T-gel. None of the patient had any co-morbidities possibly affecting the urinary excretion of the steroidal markers. The steroidal markers were quantified by gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) after the enzymatic hydrolysis of the respective glucuro-conjugates and the chemical hydrolysis of the respective sulfo-conjugates. Targeted GC-MS/MS analysis was carried out operating in electron impact (EI) ionization mode, with acquisition in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. Our preliminary results show that, as expected, the treatment with T-gel leads, in all hypogonadal men, to an increase of the urinary concentration of the glucuro-conjugate metabolites of testosterone and its main metabolites, with special relevance to those with 5α-reduction. Furthermore, samples collected from non-LOH hypogonadal men showed an increase also in the levels of epitestosterone glucuronide, testosterone sulfate and epitestosterone sulfate. Apart from their biochemical and pharmacological relevance, these outcomes could be leveraged to refine the analytical strategy currently followed in the antidoping field for the analysis of the urinary steroidal markers, with potential implications also in other forensic and/or clinical investigations.

Monitoring testosterone replacement therapy with transdermal gel: when and how?

PURPOSE

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is recommended for the treatment of most cases of male hypogonadism. Transdermal testosterone (T) gels are commonly used in clinical practice; however, there is little evidence concerning how to monitor dosage to bring and maintain serum T levels in the normal physiologic range.

METHODS

We examined 30 hypogonadal patients undergoing treatment with 40 mg/day transdermal 2% testosterone gel. After a week from treatment onset, all patients underwent a total of four measurements to assess serum total T, bioavailable T and free T at + 2 h (samples A and A') and + 23 h (samples B and B').

RESULTS

No significant difference was found concerning total, free and bioavailable T between the two samples taken at the same time points (A vs A' and B vs B'). A repeated-measures mixed effects regression model showed significantly lower serum levels of total, free and bioavailable T at + 23 h compared to + 2 h (total T, β = - 3.050 ± 0.704, p < 0.001; free T, β = - 85.187 ± 22.746, p < 0.001; bioavailable T, β = - 1.519 ± 0.497, p = 0.003) without a significant between-sample variability. Serum T > 3.5 ng/ml at + 2 h was reached in 21/30 patients (70%), but only 11 (36.7%) still had adequate serum T at + 23 h.

CONCLUSION

Assessment of TRT with transdermal gels at its peak and at its minimum could be useful in providing a finely tailored treatment for hypogonadal men, both preventing supra-physiological levels and maintaining adequate concentrations through the day.

Recovery of the Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis After Transsphenoidal Adenomectomy for Non-ACTH-Secreting Macroadenomas

CONTEXT

Secondary adrenal insufficiency is a potential complication of transsphenoidal adenomectomy (TSA). Most centers test recovery of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis after TSA, but, to our knowledge, there are no data predicting likelihood of recovery or the frequency of later recovery of HPA function.

OBJECTIVE

To assess timing and predictors of HPA axis recovery after TSA.

DESIGN

Single-center, retrospective analysis of consecutive pituitary surgeries performed between February 2015 and September 2018.

PATIENTS

Patients (N = 109) with short Synacthen test (SST) data before and at sequential time points after TSA.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Recovery of HPA axis function at 6 weeks, and 3, 6, and 9 to12 months after TSA.

RESULTS

Preoperative SST indicated adrenal insufficiency in 21.1% Among these patients, 34.8% recovered by 6 weeks after TSA. Among the 65.2% (n = 15) remaining, 13.3% and 20% recovered at 3 months and 9 to 12 months, respectively. Of the 29% of patients with adrenal insufficiency at the 6-week SST, 16%, 12%, and 6% subsequently recovered at 3, 6, and 9 to 12 months, respectively. Preoperative SST 30-minute cortisol, postoperative day 8 cortisol, and 6-week postoperative SST baseline cortisol levels above or below 430 nmol/L [15.5 μg/dL; AUC ROC, 0.86]; 160 nmol/L (5.8 μg/dL; AUC ROC, 0.75); and 180 nmol/L (6.5 μg/dL; AUC ROC, 0.88), were identified as cutoffs for predicting 6-week HPA recovery. No patients with all three cutoffs below the threshold recovered within 12 months after TSA, whereas 92% with all cutoffs above the threshold recovered HPA function within 6 weeks (OR, 12.200; 95% CI, 5.268 to 28.255).

CONCLUSION

HPA axis recovery can occur as late as 9 to 12 months after TSA, demonstrating the need for periodic reassessment of patients who initially have SST-determined adrenal insufficiency after TSA. Pre- and postoperative SST values can guide which patients are likely to recover function and potentially avoid unnecessary lifelong glucocorticoid replacement.

An update on heart disease risk associated with testosterone boosting medications

INTRODUCTION

The cardiovascular (CV) safety of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) remains a crucial issue in the management of subjects with late-onset hypogonadism. The authors systematically reviewed and discussed the available evidence focusing our analysis on heart-related issues.

AREAS COVERED

All the available data from prospective observational studies evaluating the role endogenous T levels on the risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) were collected and analyzed. In addition, the impact of TRT on heart-related diseases, as derived from pharmaco-epidemiological studies as well as from randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCTs), was also investigated.

EXPERT OPINION

Available evidence indicates that endogenous low T represents a risk factor of AMI incidence and its related mortality. TRT in hypogonadal patients is able to improve angina symptoms in subjects with ischemic heart diseases and exercise ability in patients with heart failure (HF). In addition, when prescribed according to the recommended dosage, TRT does not increase the risk of heart-related events.

Impact of Metabolically Healthy Obesity in Patients with Andrological Problems

BACKGROUND

Although the pathogenic role of metabolically complicated obesity (MCO) in erectile dysfunction (ED), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and male infertility has been widely studied, that of metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) has been poorly investigated.

AIM

To assess the role of MHO in the pathogenesis of ED, prediction of MACE, and male reproductive health.

METHODS

A consecutive series of 4,945 men (mean age, 50.5 ± 13.5 years) with sexual dysfunction (SD) (cohort 1) and 231 male partners of infertile couples (mean age, 37.9 ± 9.1 years; cohort 2) were studied. A subset of men with SD (n = 1,687) was longitudinally investigated to evaluate MACE. All patients underwent clinical, biochemical, erectile function, and flaccid penile color Doppler ultrasound (PCDU) assessment. Infertile men also underwent scrotal and transrectal ultrasound; semen analysis, including interleukin (IL-) 8; and prostatitis-like symptom assessment. MHO was defined as body mass index >30 kg/m² with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level >40 mg/dL and absence of diabetes or hypertension. The rest of the obesity sample was defined as MCO. MHO or MCO were compared with the rest of the sample, defined as normal weight (NW) individuals.

OUTCOMES

Clinical, biochemical, erectile, and PCDU assessment in MHO, MCO and NW men in both cohorts; longitudinal MACE incidence assessment in cohort 1.

RESULTS

In cohort 1, 816 men (16.5%) were obese, 181 (3.7%) were MHO, and 635 (12.8%) were MCO. In cohort 2, 68 men (28.4%) were obese, 19 (8.2%) were MHO, and 49 (21.2%) were MCO. After adjusting for confounders, in both samples, the men with MHO and MCO had lower total testosterone levels and worse PCDU parameters compared with the NW men. However, only MCO men had worse erectile function compared with NW men. In the longitudinal study, both MHO and MCO men independently had a higher incidence of MACE compared with NW men (P < .05 for both). In cohort 2, MHO and MCO men had a larger prostate volume, and MCO men also had higher ultrasound and biochemical (IL-8) features of prostatic inflammation compared with NW men, but no differences in prostatitis-like symptoms or seminal parameters.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

MHO men should be considered at high cardiovascular risk like MCO men and followed-up for erectile dysfunction and prostate abnormalities overtime.

STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS

The study simultaneously examined several endpoints with validated instruments within 2 different male populations, 1 with SD and 1 with infertility. As for limitations, there is no consensus in the scientific community regarding the definition of MHO, and the results are derived from patients with SD or infertility, which could have different characteristics than the general male population.

CONCLUSION

MHO is associated with subclinical ED, increased cardiovascular risk, and prostate enlargement. Lotti F, Rastrelli G, Maseroli E, et al. Impact of Metabolically Healthy Obesity in Patients with Andrological Problems. J Sex Med 2019:16;821-832.

Klinefelter syndrome: From pediatrics to geriatrics

BACKGROUND

Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is one of the major causes of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) is often performed to retrieve sperm. Infertility specialists have to care for KS patients on a lifelong basis.

METHODS

Based on a literature review and our own experience, male infertility treatment and KS pathophysiology were considered on a lifelong basis.

MAIN FINDINGS

Patients diagnosed early often have an increased number of aberrant X chromosomes. Cryptorchidism and hypospadias are often found, and surgical correction is required. Cryopreservation of testicular sperm during adolescence is an issue of debate because the sperm retrieval rate (SRR) in KS patients decreases with age. The SRR in adult KS patients is higher than that in other patients with NOA; however, low testosterone levels after micro-TESE will lower the general health and quality of life. KS men face a number of comorbidities, such as malignancies, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, bone disease, and immune diseases, which ultimately results in increased mortality rates.

CONCLUSION

A deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of KS and the histories of KS patients before they seek infertility treatment, during which discussions with multidisciplinary teams are sometimes needed, will help to properly treat these patients.

Risk of Erythrocytosis During Concomitant Testosterone and SGLT2-Inhibitor Treatment: A Warning From Two Clinical Cases

CONTEXT

Erythrocytosis is one of the most common side effects occurring during testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in male hypogonadism. It is well known that all testosterone formulations may cause Hb and hematocrit increase, especially with short-acting injectable formulations. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are a new class of glucose-lowering agents that reduce hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by inhibition of renal glucose reabsorption, leading to increased urinary glucose excretion. The co-occurrence of T2DM and hypogonadism is known to be increasingly frequent. However, to date, no adverse events with the concomitant use of TRT and SGLT2is are reported.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We report two cases of erythrocytosis during testosterone treatment and SGLT2i in patients with hypogonadism and T2DM.

CONCLUSION

Considering that hypogonadism and T2DM are frequently associated, clinicians should carefully monitor the risk of occurrence of erythrocytosis when prescribing TRT and SGLT2i together.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Sexual Symptoms

BACKGROUND

Several data have clearly shown that the endocrine system-and androgens in particular-play a pivotal role in regulating all the steps involved in the male sexual response cycle. Accordingly, testosterone (T) replacement therapy (TRT) represents a cornerstone of pharmacologic management of hypogonadal subjects with erectile dysfunction.

AIM

The aim of this review is to summarize all the available evidence supporting the role of T in the regulation of male sexual function and to provide a comprehensive summary regarding the sexual outcomes of TRT in patients complaining of sexual dysfunction.

METHODS

A comprehensive PubMed literature search was performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Specific analysis of preclinical and clinical evidence on the role of T in regulating male sexual function was performed. In addition, available evidence supporting the role of TRT on several sexual outcomes was separately investigated.

RESULTS

T represents an important modulator of male sexual response function. However, the role of T in sexual functioning is less evident in epidemiologic studies because other factors, including organic, relational, and intrapsychic determinants, can orchestrate their effect independently from the state of androgens. Nonetheless, it is clear that TRT can ameliorate several aspects of sexual functioning, including libido, erectile function, and overall sexual satisfaction. Conversely, data on the role of TRT in improving orgasmic function are more conflicting. Finally, further controlled studies are needed to investigate the combination of TRT and PDE5 inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

Positive effects of TRT are observed only in the presence of a hypogonadal status (ie, total T < 12 nmol/L). In addition, TRT alone can be effective in restoring only milder forms of erectile dysfunction, whereas the combined therapy with other drugs is required when more severe vascular damage is present. Rastrelli G, Guaraldi F, Reismann Y, et al. Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Sexual Symptoms. Sex Med Rev 2019;7:464-475.

Association of Testosterone Treatment With Alleviation of Depressive Symptoms in Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

Countering depressive disorders is a public health priority. Currently, antidepressants are the first-line treatment, although they show modest effects. In men, testosterone treatment is a controversial alternative or adjunct treatment option.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association of testosterone treatment with alleviation of depressive symptoms in men and to clarify moderating effects of testosterone status, depression status, age, treatment duration, and dosage.

DATA SOURCES

English-language studies published in peer-reviewed journals identified from PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, PsychINFO, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register from database inception to March 5, 2018, using the search terms testosterone, mood, administration, dosage, adverse effects, deficiency, standards, therapeutic use, therapy, treatment, and supplementation.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials (RCTs) of testosterone treatment that together cover a broad age range and hypogonadal or eugonadal men reporting depressive symptoms on psychometrically validated depression scales.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Of 7690 identified records, 469 were evaluated against full study inclusion criteria after removing duplicates, reviews, and studies that did not examine male patients or testosterone. Quality assessment and data extraction from the remaining 27 RCTs were performed.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes were testosterone treatment effectiveness (standardized score difference after treatment), efficacy (proportion of patients who responded to testosterone treatment with a score reduction of 50% or greater), and acceptability (proportion of patients who withdrew for any reason).

RESULTS

Random-effects meta-analysis of 27 RCTs including 1890 men suggested that testosterone treatment is associated with a significant reduction in depressive symptoms compared with placebo (Hedges g, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.10-0.32), showing an efficacy of odds ratio (OR), 2.30 (95% CI, 1.30-4.06). There was no significant difference between acceptability of testosterone treatment and placebo (OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.61-1.01). Meta-regression models suggested significant interactions for testosterone treatment with dosage and symptom variability at baseline. In the most conservative bias scenario, testosterone treatment remained significant whenever dosages greater than 0.5 g/wk were administered and symptom variability was kept low.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Testosterone treatment appears to be effective and efficacious in reducing depressive symptoms in men, particularly when higher-dosage regimens were applied in carefully selected samples. However, given the heterogeneity of the included RCTs, more preregistered trials are needed that explicitly examine depression as the primary end point and consider relevant moderators.

Testosterone deficiency in non-cancer opioid-treated patients

PURPOSE

The use of opioids in patients with chronic non-cancer pain is common and can be associated with opioid-induced androgen deficiency (OPIAD) in men. This review aims to evaluate the current literature regarding the prevalence, clinical consequence and management of OPIAD.

METHODS

A database search was performed in Medline, Embase and Cochrane using terms such as "analgesics", "opioids" and "testosterone". Relevant literature from January 1969 to March 2018 was evaluated.

RESULTS

The prevalence of patients with OPIAD ranges from 19 to 86%, depending on the criteria for diagnosis of hypogonadism. The opioid-induced suppression of gonadotropin-releasing and luteinizing hormones represents the main important pathogenetic mechanisms. OPIAD has significant negative clinical consequences on sexual function, mood, bone density and body composition. In addition, OPIAD can also impair pain control leading to hyperalgesia, which can contribute to sexual dysfunction and mood impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

OPIAD is a common adverse effect of opioid treatment and contributes to sexual dysfunction, impairs pain relief and reduces overall quality of life. The evaluation of serum testosterone levels should be considered in male chronic opioid users and the decision to initiate testosterone treatment should be based on the clinical profile of individuals, in consultation with the patient.

Testosterone replacement therapy: For whom, when and how?

The finding of low circulating testosterone level in men is relatively frequent. The symptoms of hypogonadism are very frequent in the aging men. However, the diagnosis of hypogonadism is often neglected and the opportunity to replace low testosterone in older men is highly debated. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the steps necessary to formulate a proper diagnosis and to guide toward an individualized treatment. While universally recognized the need to treat the young adults with known causes of pituitary or testicular failure, there are controversies on the cost-benefit of treating testosterone deficiency in older men. Discrepancies among the several available guidelines do not help to clarify the scenario, however, the recent larger clinical trials have shed some light on the fact that testosterone treatment carries some benefit, that is not free from risks. We provide an updated review of the diagnostic hallmarks, the several treatment modalities, with their advantages and disadvantages, and how to individualize and monitor treatment in order to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks. The treatment of male hypogonadism can no longer be downgraded and must become part of the cultural baggage of the endocrinologist.

The complex association between metabolic syndrome and male hypogonadism

BACKGROUND

The complex association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and male hypogonadism is well established. A number of observational studies show that low testosterone is associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk for diabetes mellitus and MetS in men.

AIMS

To elucidate the association between MetS and male hypogonadism, present epidemiological data on the co-existence of the two comorbidities, enlighten the underlying pathophysiology and appraise the effects of testosterone supplementation therapy (TTh) and lifestyle modifications on MetS and body composition in men.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Systematic search to PubMed and Medline databases for publications reporting data on association between MetS and male hypogonadism.

RESULTS

Both MetS and male hypogonadism have a high prevalence in the general population and are frequently co-existing e.g. in males with diabetes. Accumulating evidence from animal and human studies suggests that MetS is involved in the pathogenesis of hypogonadism in males as well as the other way around. On the other hand, there is evidence for a favorable effect of testosterone supplementation in testosterone deficient men with MetS and/or diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies with superior methodological characteristics are needed in order to establish a role for testosterone supplementation in men with MetS and/or diabetes mellitus.

Long-term effect of testosterone replacement therapy on bone in hypogonadal men with Klinefelter Syndrome

PURPOSE

To assess different aspects of bone damage in untreated adult patients with Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) before and during testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

METHODS

Fifteen untreated hypogonadal men with KS and 26 control subjects (C) matched for age and BMI were recruited. Sex hormone levels were measured in all subjects. Lumbar spine (LS) and femoral (neck: FN and total hip: TH) bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone score (TBS), hip structure analysis (HSA) and fat measures (percentage of fat mass, android/gynoid ratio and visceral adipose tissue) were evaluated by DEXA. In KS patients, blood analysis and DEXA measurements were assessed at baseline and repeated yearly for three years during TRT.

RESULTS

Fat measures were significantly higher in KS than C (p < 0.01). In contrast, mean LS, FN and TH BMD were significantly reduced in KS compared to C (p < 0.01), while there was no difference in TBS. HSA revealed a significantly lower cortical thickness and significantly higher buckling ratio in KS compared to C at all femoral sites (p < 0.01). In KS patients, TRT significantly increased BMD at LS only, but did not improve TBS and HSA parameters. Fat measures were inversely associated with TBS values, and TRT did not influence this relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

In untreated hypogonadal men with KS, lumbar and femoral BMD was reduced, and femoral bone quality was impaired. Adiposity seemed to have a detrimental effect on lumbar bone microarchitecture, as indirectly evaluated by TBS. However, TRT failed to remedy these negative effects on bone.

Klinefelter syndrome, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes: review of literature and clinical perspectives

PURPOSE

Klinefelter syndrome (KS), the most frequent chromosomic abnormality in males, is associated with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The mechanisms involved in increasing risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality are not completely understood. This review summarises the current understandings of the complex relationship between KS, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk in order to plan future studies and improve current strategies to reduce mortality in this high-risk population.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for manuscripts published prior to November 2017 using key words "Klinefelter syndrome" AND "insulin resistance" OR "metabolic syndrome" OR "diabetes mellitus" OR "cardiovascular disease" OR "testosterone". Manuscripts were collated, studied and carried forward for discussion where appropriate.

RESULTS

Insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes are more frequently diagnosed in KS than in the general population; however, the contribution of hypogonadism to metabolic derangement is highly controversial. Whether this dangerous combination of risk factors fully explains the CVD burden of KS patients remains unclear. In addition, testosterone replacement therapy only exerts a marginal action on the CVD system.

CONCLUSION

Since fat accumulation and distribution seem to play a relevant role in triggering metabolic abnormalities, an early diagnosis and a tailored intervention strategy with drugs aimed at targeting excessive visceral fat deposition appear necessary in patients with KS.

The Role of Testosterone Therapy in the Setting of Prostate Cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The role of testosterone in the development of prostate cancer and the safety of testosterone therapy (TTh) after prostate cancer treatment, or in the setting of active surveillance, remains controversial. There are many concerns about using TTh in men, particularly those with a history of prostate cancer, ranging from a possible increased risk of cardiovascular disease to cancer progression or recurrence. With many prostate cancer patients living longer, and hypogonadism having significant morbidity, much care must go into the decision to treat. Here, we review the literature investigating the effects of testosterone on the prostate as well as the efficacy and safety of exogenous testosterone in men with a history of prostate cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

The improvement in quality of life with TTh is well studied and understood, while the argument for significantly increased risk of cancer or other adverse effects is much less robust. Neither increased rates of prostate cancer, cancer recurrence, or cardiovascular risk have been well established. In men with high-risk prostate cancer, evidence in the setting of TTh is very limited, and TTh should be used with caution. The fears of TTh causing or worsening prostate cancer do not appear to be well supported by available data. Though more studies are needed to definitively determine the safety of TTh in men with prostate cancer, consideration should be given to treatment of hypogonadal men with a history of CaP.

The CATCH checklist to investigate adult-onset hypogonadism

Adult-onset hypogonadism is a syndrome often underdiagnosed, undertreated, or incompletely explored. There are various reasons for this: firstly, undefined age range of men in whom testosterone levels should be investigated and then no definitive serum cutoff point for the diagnosis of hypogonadism; and finally, variable and non-specific signs and symptoms; men and physicians do not pay adequate attention to sexual health. All these factors make the diagnostic criteria for hypogonadism controversial. The evaluation of the clinical features and causes of this syndrome, its link with age, the role of testosterone and other hormone levels, and the presence of any comorbidities are all useful factors in the investigation of this population. The purpose of this manuscript, after an accurate analysis of current literature, is to facilitate the diagnosis of hypogonadism in men through the use of the CATCH acronym and a checklist to offer a practical diagnostic tool for daily clinical practice. A narrative review of the relevant literature regarding the diagnosis of late-onset hypogonadism or adult-onset hypogonadism was performed. PubMed database was used to retrieve articles published on this topic. A useful new acronym CATCH (Clinical features [symptoms] and Causes, Age, Testosterone level, Comorbidities, and Hormones) and a practical checklist to facilitate the evaluation of hypogonadism in aging men were used. The evaluation of the clinical features and causes of hypogonadism, the link with age, the role of Testosterone and other hormones, and the evaluation of comorbidities are important in investigating adult-onset hypogonadism. The CATCH checklist could be helpful for clinicians for an early diagnosis of both hypogonadism and associated comorbidities. We suggest the use of this acronym to advocate the investigation of declining testosterone in aging men.