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Bhasin S, Thompson IM. Prostate Risk and Monitoring During Testosterone Replacement Therapy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:1975-1983. [PMID: 38753865 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgae334] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Men with hypogonadism have reduced risk of prostate cancer mortality; whether testosterone treatment increases the risk of prostate safety events in men with hypogonadism remains controversial. Several studies including 4 larger randomized trials-the Testosterone Trials, TEstosterone and Atherosclerosis Progression in Aging Men (TEAAM) trial, Testosterone for Diabetes Mellitus trial, and Testosterone Replacement therapy for Assessment of long-term Vascular Events and efficacy ResponSE in hypogonadal men (TRAVERSE) trial-treated men with testosterone or placebo for 1 year or longer and reported prospectively ascertained prostate safety data. The TRAVERSE Trial, because of its large size, longer duration, and adjudication of prostate events, has provided comprehensive data on the risk of adverse prostate events during testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Among men with hypogonadism, carefully screened to exclude those at high risk of prostate cancer, the incidences of high-grade or any prostate cancer, acute urinary retention, surgical procedure for benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate biopsy, or new pharmacologic therapy for lower urinary tract symptoms were low and did not differ between the testosterone and placebo groups. Testosterone did not worsen lower urinary tract symptoms. TRT was associated with a greater increase in prostate-specific antigen than placebo in the first year of treatment. CONCLUSION Testosterone treatment of men with hypogonadism, screened to exclude those at high risk of prostate cancer, is associated with low risk of adverse prostate events. Baseline evaluation of prostate cancer risk and a standardized monitoring plan can minimize the risk of unnecessary prostate biopsy while enabling the detection of high-grade prostate cancers in men receiving TRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalender Bhasin
- Research Program in Men's Health: Aging and Metabolism, Boston Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ian M Thompson
- Department of Urology, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System and The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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Yassin A, Alwani M, Al-Zoubi RM, Aboumarzouk OM, Talib R, Nettleship J, Kelly D, Albaba B. Voiding function improves under long-term testosterone treatment (TTh) in hypogonadal men, independent of prostate size. Int Urol Nephrol 2023:10.1007/s11255-023-03602-4. [PMID: 37148486 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-023-03602-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional hypogonadism is a condition in which some, but not all, older men have low testosterone levels. Rather than chronological age per se, the causality of hypogonadism includes obesity and impaired general health (e.g., metabolic syndrome). An association between testosterone deficiency and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) has been reported, yet due to prostate safety concerns, men with severe LUTS (IPSS score > 19) have invariably been excluded from entering testosterone trials. Irrespective, exogenous testosterone has not been demonstrated to cause de novo or worsen mild to moderate LUTS. OBJECTIVE This study investigated whether long-term testosterone therapy (TTh) could have a protective effect on improving the symptoms of LUTS in hypogonadal men. However, the exact mechanism by which testosterone exerts is beneficial effect remains uncertain. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this study 321 hypogonadal patients with an average age of 58.9 ± 9.52 years received testosterone undecanoate in 12-week intervals for 12 years. One hundred and forty-seven of these males had the testosterone treatment interrupted for a mean of 16.9 months before it was resumed. Total testosterone, International Prostate Symptom Scale (IPSS), post-voiding residual bladder volume and aging male symptoms (AMS) were measured over the study period. RESULTS Prior to TTh interruption, it was observed that testosterone stimulation improved the men's IPSS, AMS and post-voiding residual bladder volume, while their prostate volume significantly increased. During the TTh interruption, there was a significant worsening in these parameters, although the increase in prostate volume continued. When TTh was resumed, these effects were reversed, implying that hypogonadism may require lifelong treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aksam Yassin
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation and Men's Health, Doha, Qatar
- Center of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
- Weill Cornell School of Medicine, Urology, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mustafa Alwani
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation and Men's Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Raed M Al-Zoubi
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation and Men's Health, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, QU-Health, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Chemistry, Jordan University of Science and Technology, PO Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
| | - Omar M Aboumarzouk
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation and Men's Health, Doha, Qatar
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, The University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Raidh Talib
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation and Men's Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Joanne Nettleship
- Biomolecular Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Daniel Kelly
- Biomolecular Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Bassam Albaba
- Center of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
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3
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Fendereski K, Ghaed MA, Calvert JK, Hotaling JM. Hypogonadism and urologic surgeries: a narrative review. Transl Androl Urol 2022; 11:1045-1062. [PMID: 35958902 PMCID: PMC9360521 DOI: 10.21037/tau-22-308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective Previous studies indicated that the treatment of male hypogonadism can be beneficial for intraoperative and postsurgical outcomes. In this study, we aimed to determine the impact of male hypogonadism on urologic surgeries. We provided an overview of the key studies in the field with the focus on the outcomes of urologic surgeries in hypogonadal men with/without testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Methods We performed a literature review in PubMed and Google Scholar databases for the most relevant articles pertaining to the outlined topics without placing any limitations on publication years or study designs. We included full-text English articles published in peer reviewed journals between January 1970 and March 2022. Key Content and Findings Androgen deficiency is a common finding after major urologic surgeries. Although guidelines recommend against TRT in men with prostate carcinoma, recent investigations showed no association between TRT and disease progression and recurrence. Indeed, recent evidence suggested that low androgen levels could be related to high grade prostate carcinoma and increased risk of upgrading from low to high grade disease. Investigations on the application of TRT in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients also revealed contrasting results. While some studies suggested higher rates of prostate-related events in men who received TRT, others showed that TRT could alleviate urinary symptoms in hypogonadal men with BPH. Decreased testosterone level is commonly seen in bladder cancer patients. The treatment of perioperative androgen deficiency can reduce postoperative morbidities and lower the risk of recurrence in these patients. Low testosterone levels are observed in approximately half of the men who undergo artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) placement and can increase the risk of complications. Conclusions The role of testosterone treatment in patients with urologic diseases such as prostate carcinoma and BPH is controversial. Further investigations are needed to determine the impact of hypogonadism and TRT on the outcomes of urologic surgeries in patients with androgen deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiarad Fendereski
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Mohammad Ali Ghaed
- Department of Urology, Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran university of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Joshua K Calvert
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - James M Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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Lotti F, Frizza F, Balercia G, Barbonetti A, Behre HM, Calogero AE, Cremers JF, Francavilla F, Isidori AM, Kliesch S, La Vignera S, Lenzi A, Marcou M, Pilatz A, Poolamets O, Punab M, Godoy MFP, Quintian C, Rajmil O, Salvio G, Shaeer O, Weidner W, Maseroli E, Cipriani S, Baldi E, Degl'Innocenti S, Danza G, Caldini AL, Terreni A, Boni L, Krausz C, Maggi M. The European Academy of Andrology (EAA) ultrasound study on healthy, fertile men: Prostate-vesicular transrectal ultrasound reference ranges and associations with clinical, seminal and biochemical characteristics. Andrology 2022; 10:1150-1171. [PMID: 35735741 PMCID: PMC9544532 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) parameters are not standardized, especially in men of reproductive age. Hence, the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) promoted a multicenter study to assess the TRUS characteristics of healthy‐fertile men (HFM) to establish normative parameters. Objectives To report and discuss the prostate and seminal vesicles (SV) reference ranges and characteristics in HFM and their associations with clinical, seminal, biochemical parameters. Methods 188 men (35.6 ± 6.0 years) from a cohort of 248 HFM were studied, evaluating, on the same day, clinical, biochemical, seminal, TRUS parameters following Standard Operating Procedures. Results TRUS reference ranges and characteristics of the prostate and SV of HFM are reported herein. The mean PV was ∼25 ml. PV lower and upper limits were 15 and 35 ml, defining prostate hypotrophy and enlargement, respectively. PV was positively associated with age, waistline, current smoking (but not with T levels), seminal volume (and negatively with seminal pH), prostate inhomogeneity, macrocalcifications, calcification size and prostate arterial parameters, SV volume before and after ejaculation, deferential and epididymal size. Prostate calcifications and inhomogeneity were frequent, while midline prostatic cysts were rare and small. Ejaculatory duct abnormalities were absent. Periprostatic venous plexus size was positively associated with prostate calcifications, SV volume and arterial peak systolic velocity. Lower and upper limits of SV anterior‐posterior diameter after ejaculation were 6 and 16 mm, defining SV hypotrophy or dilation, respectively. SV total volume before ejaculation and delta SV total volume (DSTV) positively correlated with ejaculate volume, and DSTV correlated positively with sperm progressive motility. SV total volume after ejaculation was associated negatively with SV ejection fraction and positively with distal ampullas size. SV US abnormalities were rare. No association between TRUS and time to pregnancy, number of children or history of miscarriage was observed. Conclusions The present findings will help in better understanding male infertility pathophysiology and the meaning of specific TRUS findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lotti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Frizza
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Endocrinology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti Ancona, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Jann-Frederik Cremers
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Felice Francavilla
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marios Marcou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Olev Poolamets
- Andrology Unit, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Margus Punab
- Andrology Unit, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Claudia Quintian
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Osvaldo Rajmil
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Endocrinology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti Ancona, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Osama Shaeer
- Department of Andrology, Kasr El Aini Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Elisa Maseroli
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sarah Cipriani
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Selene Degl'Innocenti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanna Danza
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Boni
- Clinical Trials Coordinating Center, Toscano Cancer Institute, University Hospital Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Dandona P, Dhindsa S, Ghanim H, Saad F. Mechanisms underlying the metabolic actions of testosterone in humans: A narrative review. Diabetes Obes Metab 2021; 23:18-28. [PMID: 32991053 DOI: 10.1111/dom.14206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The role of testosterone in improving sexual symptoms in men with hypogonadism is well known. However, recent studies indicate that testosterone plays an important role in several metabolic functions in males. Multiple PubMed searches were conducted with the use of the terms testosterone, insulin sensitivity, obesity, type 2 diabetes, anaemia, bone density, osteoporosis, fat mass, lean mass and body composition. This narrative review is focused on detailing the mechanisms that underlie the metabolic aspects of testosterone therapy in humans. Testosterone enhances insulin sensitivity in obese men with hypogonadism by decreasing fat mass, increasing lean mass, decreasing free fatty acids and suppressing inflammation. At a cellular level, testosterone increases the expression of insulin receptor β subunit, insulin receptor substrate-1, protein kinase B and glucose transporter type 4 in adipose tissue and adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase expression and activity in skeletal muscle. Observational studies show that long-term therapy with testosterone prevents progression from prediabetes to diabetes and improves HbA1c. Testosterone increases skeletal muscle satellite cell activator, fibroblast growth factor-2 and decreases expression of the muscle growth suppressors, myostatin and myogenic regulatory factor 4. Testosterone increases haematocrit by suppressing hepcidin and increasing expression of ferroportin along with that of transferrin receptor and plasma transferrin concentrations. Testosterone also increases serum osteocalcin concentrations, which may account for its anabolic actions on bone. In conclusion, testosterone exerts a series of potent metabolic effects, which include insulin sensitization, maintenance and growth of the skeletal muscle, suppression of adipose tissue growth and maintenance of erythropoiesis and haematocrit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paresh Dandona
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, State University of New York at Buffalo, Williamsville, New York, USA
| | - Sandeep Dhindsa
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, State University of New York at Buffalo, Williamsville, New York, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Husam Ghanim
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, State University of New York at Buffalo, Williamsville, New York, USA
| | - Farid Saad
- Research Department, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
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6
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Abstract
This article contains a systematic review of the main developments that have occurred in the area of male hypogonadism between the publication of the Endocrine Society Guidelines of 2010 and 2018 and after 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Marcelli
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houson, Texas, USA .,Section of Endocrinology, Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sanjay Navin Mediwala
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houson, Texas, USA.,Section of Endocrinology, Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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7
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Zhang L, Wang Y, Qin Z, Gao X, Xing Q, Li R, Wang W, Song N, Zhang W. Correlation between Prostatitis, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Prostate Cancer: A systematic review and Meta-analysis. J Cancer 2020; 11:177-189. [PMID: 31892984 PMCID: PMC6930406 DOI: 10.7150/jca.37235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: No consensus has been reached on the definite associations among prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa). Hence, this meta-analysis was conducted to explore their triadic relation by summarizing epidemiological evidence. Methods: Systematical and comprehensive retrieval of online databases PubMed, PMC, EMBASE and Web of Science was performed to acquire eligible studies, up to April 1st, 2019. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to clarify their correlations. Results: A total of 42 studies were enrolled in the quality assessment and 35 were finally included in the meta-analyses. Among them, 27 studies were included to describe the association between prostatitis and PCa (OR=1.72, 95% CI=1.44-2.06, I2=90.1%, P<0.001). 21 studies presented significant evidence about the relation between BPH and PCa (OR=2.16, 95% CI=1.75-2.88, I²=97.1%, P<0.001). Due to the huge heterogeneity among studies, those with obvious outliers were excluded based on the Galbraith plots. Ultimately, 17 studies were screened out to assess the association between prostatitis and PCa (OR=1.59, 95% CI=1.48-1.70, I²=29.4%, P=0.123). Meanwhile, 8 studies were retained to evaluate the association between BPH and PCa (OR=3.10, 95% CI=2.87-3.35, I²=8.4%, P=0.365). As for the relation between prostatitis and BPH, a case-control study and a cohort study both supported that prostatitis could enhance the risk of BPH. Conclusions: Significant correlations were revealed among prostatitis, BPH and PCa. Prostatitis or BPH could lead to escalating risks of PCa. Meanwhile, people with a history of prostatitis might be more vulnerable to BPH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhiqiang Qin
- Department of Urology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210006, China
| | - Xian Gao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qianwei Xing
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Ran Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Ninghong Song
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
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8
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Abstract
Introduction: The use of testosterone therapy (TTh) in men with prostate cancer (PCa) is relatively new, and controversial, due to the longstanding maxim that TTh is contraindicated in men with PCa. Scientific advances have prompted a reevaluation of the potential role for TTh in men with PCa, particularly as TTh has been shown to provide important symptomatic and general health benefits to men with testosterone deficiency (TD), including many men with PCa who may expect to live 30-50 years after diagnosis. Areas covered: This review outlines the historical underpinnings of the historical belief that TTh 'fuels' PCa and the experimental and clinical studies that have radically altered this view, including description of the saturation model. The authors review studies of TTh in men with PCa following radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy, in men on active surveillance, and in men with advanced or metastatic PCa. Expert opinion: TTh provides important symptomatic and overall health benefits for men with PCa who have TD. Although more safety studies are needed, TTh is a reasonable therapeutic option for men with low-risk PCa after surgery or radiation. Data in men on active surveillance are limited, but initial reports are reassuring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham Morgentaler
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Men's Health Boston , Boston , MA , USA
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9
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Obesity’s role in secondary male hypogonadism: a review of pathophysiology and management issues. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s42399-019-00056-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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10
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Drincic A, Nguyen AT, Singh S, Zena M, Walters R, Friedman K, Anderson RJ. PITUITARY EVALUATION IN PATIENTS WITH LOW PROSTATE-SPECIFIC ANTIGEN. Endocr Pract 2018; 24:1030-1037. [PMID: 30289304 DOI: 10.4158/ep-2018-0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate pituitary function in men with a low screening prostate-specific antigen (PSA) of ≤0.1 ng/mL and test the hypothesis that low PSA is associated with hypogonadism alone or other hormone deficiency. METHODS This was a case-control study evaluating the rates of hypogonadism and low insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 in a cohort of men with low or normal screening PSA level. Sixty-four men >40 years old without known prostate disease were divided into a low-PSA group (PSA ≤0.1 ng/mL) and normal-PSA group (PSA 1 to 4 ng/mL). Hormonal evaluation included total testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, IGF-1, growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, morning cortisol, and adrenocorticotropic hormone. The difference between each patient's observed IGF-1 and the IGF-1 age-specific lower limit was calculated. The odds ratios (ORs) for having hypogonadism and associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test. RESULTS The rate of hypogonadism was significantly higher in the low-PSA group (n = 44) compared with the normal-PSA control group (n = 20) (45.5% vs. 15.0%; OR, 4.7; 95% CI, 1.2 to 18.4; P = .027). The total testosterone in the low-PSA group was significantly lower compared with the control group (181.7 ng/dL vs. 263.7 ng/dL; P = .008). IGF-1 values were below their lower bound in 18.6% of subjects in the low-PSA group, compared with 0% in the control group. CONCLUSION Men with low PSA have significantly higher rates of hypogonadism and low IGF-1 compared with those with normal PSA. In such men, we recommend hormonal evaluation to exclude associated pituitary dysfunction. ABBREVIATIONS BMI = body mass index; GH = growth hormone; IGF-1 = insulin-like growth factor 1; MRI = magnetic resonance imaging; PSA = prostate-specific antigen; T2DM = type 2 diabetes mellitus; VA-NWIHCS = VA-Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System.
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11
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Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos P Tsametis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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12
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Dawood MF, Khalaf SM, Suleiman AA. Physiological variables and molecular study of KLK2 and KLK3 among patient with benign prostatic hyperplasia. ALEXANDRIA JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajme.2017.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa F. Dawood
- Anbar University, College of Education for Pure Science, IraqAnbar University, College of Education for Pure Science, Iraq
| | - Sameer M. Khalaf
- Anbar University, College of Education for Pure Science, IraqAnbar University, College of Education for Pure Science, Iraq
| | - Ahmed A. Suleiman
- Anbar University, College of Science, IraqAnbar University, College of Science, Iraq
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13
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Walsh TJ, Shores MM, Krakauer CA, Forsberg CW, Fox AE, Moore KP, Korpak A, Heckbert SR, Zeliadt SB, Kinsey CE, Thompson ML, Smith NL, Matsumoto AM. Testosterone treatment and the risk of aggressive prostate cancer in men with low testosterone levels. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0199194. [PMID: 29933385 PMCID: PMC6014638 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0199194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Testosterone treatment of men with low testosterone is common and, although relatively short-term, has raised concern regarding an increased risk of prostate cancer (CaP). We investigated the association between modest-duration testosterone treatment and incident aggressive CaP. Materials and methods Retrospective inception cohort study of male Veterans aged 40 to 89 years with a laboratory-defined low testosterone measurement from 2002 to 2011 and recent prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing; excluding those with recent testosterone treatment, prostate or breast cancer, high PSA or prior prostate biopsy. Histologically-confirmed incident aggressive prostate cancer or any prostate cancer were the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Results Of the 147,593 men included, 58,617 were treated with testosterone. 313 aggressive CaPs were diagnosed, 190 among untreated men (incidence rate (IR) 0.57 per 1000 person years, 95% CI 0.49–0.65) and 123 among treated men (IR 0.58 per 1000 person years; 95% CI 0.48–0.69). After adjusting for age, race, hospitalization during year prior to cohort entry, geography, BMI, medical comorbidities, repeated testosterone and PSA testing, testosterone treatment was not associated with incident aggressive CaP (HR 0.89; 95% CI 0.70–1.13) or any CaP (HR 0.90; 95% CI 0.81–1.01). No association between cumulative testosterone dose or formulation and CaP was observed. Conclusions Among men with low testosterone levels and normal PSA, testosterone treatment was not associated with an increased risk of aggressive or any CaP. The clinical risks and benefits of testosterone treatment can only be fully addressed by large, longer-term randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J. Walsh
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Molly M. Shores
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Chloe A. Krakauer
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | - Alexandra E. Fox
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Kathryn P. Moore
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Anna Korpak
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Susan R. Heckbert
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Group Health Research Institute, Group Health Cooperative, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Steven B. Zeliadt
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Chloe E. Kinsey
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Mary Lou Thompson
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Nicholas L. Smith
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Group Health Research Institute, Group Health Cooperative, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Alvin M. Matsumoto
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Division of Gerontology & Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Wolf J, Keipert D, Motazedi H, Ernst M, Nettleship J, Gooren L. Effectiveness and tolerability of parenteral testosterone undecanoate: a post-marketing surveillance study. Aging Male 2017; 20:225-234. [PMID: 28812471 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2017.1364234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This observational post-marketing study of parenteral testosterone undecanoate (TU) in a non-selected population aimed to: examine the effectiveness of TU as treatment of hypogonadism; record adverse drug reactions (ADR) quantitatively particularly regarding polycythemia, prostate safety and cardiovascular-related metabolic risk factors; and verify whether recommended injection intervals apply to routine clinical practice. Eight hundred and seventy subjects from 259 outpatient units scheduled to visit the clinic six times were included. Effectiveness and tolerability of TU administration were assessed on a 4-point scale. Body weight, waist girth, blood pressure, hemoglobin levels, hematocrit, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and digital rectal prostate examination were assessed. Over 90% of subjects completed the observational duration of 52.8 ± 9.7 weeks (mean ± SD) and 56% judged effectiveness as very good, 30.8% as good. 63.1% judged tolerability as very good, and 24.4% as good. No adverse effects on indicators of cardiovascular risk were observed. Polycythemia occurred in one subject and a supranormal hematocrit in one subject. Four subjects developed supranormal PSA levels. Prostate carcinoma was found in one subject, one subject had recurrence of a previously surgically treated prostate carcinoma, and the other two showed no indication of malignancy. Parenteral TU is safe, effective, and well-tolerated in clinical practice proving a good therapeutic option for hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Wolf
- a Urologische Facharztpraxis , Frankenwaldklinik , Kronach , Germany
| | | | | | | | - Joanne Nettleship
- e Department of Oncology and Metabolism , University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK
| | - Louis Gooren
- f Department of Internal Medicine , Endocrine Section, VU Medical Centre , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
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Lee JH, Lee SW. Testosterone and Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis. J Sex Med 2016; 13:1047-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.04.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Thirumalai A, Cooper LA, Rubinow KB, Amory JK, Lin DW, Wright JL, Marck BT, Matsumoto AM, Page ST. Stable Intraprostatic Dihydrotestosterone in Healthy Medically Castrate Men Treated With Exogenous Testosterone. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2016; 101:2937-44. [PMID: 27172434 PMCID: PMC4929843 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-1483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Concern exists that T replacement therapy (TRT) might increase the risk of prostate disease. There are limited data regarding the impact of TRT on prostate androgen concentrations. OBJECTIVE Determine the dose-dependent effects of exogenous T administration on intraprostatic androgen concentrations. DESIGN Twelve-week, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. SETTING Academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-two healthy eugonadal men, aged 25-55 years. INTERVENTIONS Subjects were randomly assigned to receive injections of acyline, a GnRH antagonist (used to achieve medical castration), every 2 weeks plus transdermal T gel (1.25 g, 2.5 g, 5.0 g, 10 g, or 15 g daily), or placebo injections and transdermal gel for 12 weeks. MAIN OUTCOMES Serum T and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were measured at baseline and every 2 weeks during treatment. Intraprostatic T and DHT concentrations were assessed from tissue obtained through ultrasound-guided prostate needle biopsies at week 12. Androgens were quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS 51 men completed the study and were included in the analysis. There were no significant adverse events. Exogenous T resulted in a dose-dependent increase in serum T and DHT concentrations (190-770 and 60-180 ng/dL, respectively). Although intraprostatic T differed among dose groups (P = .01), intraprostatic DHT was comparable regardless of T dose (P = .11) and was 10- to 20-fold greater than intraprostatic T. CONCLUSIONS In healthy, medically castrate men receiving exogenous T, the total intraprostatic androgen concentration (predominantly DHT) remained stable across serum T concentrations within the physiological range. These findings further our knowledge of the relationship between serum and intraprostatic androgens and suggest that physiological serum T achieved by TRT is unlikely to alter the prostate hormonal milieu.
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Dias JP, Melvin D, Shardell M, Ferrucci L, Chia CW, Gharib M, Egan JM, Basaria S. Effects of Transdermal Testosterone Gel or an Aromatase Inhibitor on Prostate Volume in Older Men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2016; 101:1865-71. [PMID: 26950683 PMCID: PMC4880169 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-1111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT T replacement is being increasingly offered to older men with age-related low T; hence, monitoring prostate health is important during T therapy. Data suggest that estrogens have an independent effect on the prostate and some effects of T on the prostate might be mediated via its aromatization to estradiol. Although some studies have assessed the effects of T replacement on prostate volume, the differential effects of T and estradiol have not been delineated. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to investigate the relative effects of T and estradiol on prostate volume in older men with low T. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-one men, 65 years old or older with total T less than 350 ng/dL (measured by mass spectrometry) participated in the study. INTERVENTION The intervention included randomization to 5 g transdermal T gel (TT), 1 mg oral aromatase inhibitor (AI), or placebo daily for 12 months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was prostate volume measured by transrectal ultrasound at baseline and 12 months. Secondary outcomes included prostate-specific antigen levels and lower urinary tract symptoms score. RESULTS Serum T levels increased in both intervention groups; estradiol levels increased in the TT group, whereas it decreased in the AI group. At 12 months, prostate volume significantly increased (4.5 ± 1.76 cc, P < .05) only in the TT group. Increase in prostate-specific antigen levels were seen in both intervention groups at 6 months (P < .01 and P < .001). The lower urinary tract symptoms score increased only in the TT group (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS The tropic effects of T on the prostate are mediated via its aromatization to estradiol. Administration of AI for 12 months to older men was not detrimental to the prostate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Pena Dias
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation (J.P.D., D.M., J.M.E.) and Translational Gerontology Branch (M.S., L.F., C.W.C.), National Institute on Aging, and Imaging Section (M.G.), Medstar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21225; and Section on Men's Health, Aging, and Metabolism (S.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Denise Melvin
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation (J.P.D., D.M., J.M.E.) and Translational Gerontology Branch (M.S., L.F., C.W.C.), National Institute on Aging, and Imaging Section (M.G.), Medstar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21225; and Section on Men's Health, Aging, and Metabolism (S.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Michelle Shardell
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation (J.P.D., D.M., J.M.E.) and Translational Gerontology Branch (M.S., L.F., C.W.C.), National Institute on Aging, and Imaging Section (M.G.), Medstar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21225; and Section on Men's Health, Aging, and Metabolism (S.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Luigi Ferrucci
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation (J.P.D., D.M., J.M.E.) and Translational Gerontology Branch (M.S., L.F., C.W.C.), National Institute on Aging, and Imaging Section (M.G.), Medstar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21225; and Section on Men's Health, Aging, and Metabolism (S.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Chee W Chia
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation (J.P.D., D.M., J.M.E.) and Translational Gerontology Branch (M.S., L.F., C.W.C.), National Institute on Aging, and Imaging Section (M.G.), Medstar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21225; and Section on Men's Health, Aging, and Metabolism (S.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Mohsen Gharib
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation (J.P.D., D.M., J.M.E.) and Translational Gerontology Branch (M.S., L.F., C.W.C.), National Institute on Aging, and Imaging Section (M.G.), Medstar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21225; and Section on Men's Health, Aging, and Metabolism (S.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Josephine M Egan
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation (J.P.D., D.M., J.M.E.) and Translational Gerontology Branch (M.S., L.F., C.W.C.), National Institute on Aging, and Imaging Section (M.G.), Medstar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21225; and Section on Men's Health, Aging, and Metabolism (S.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Shehzad Basaria
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation (J.P.D., D.M., J.M.E.) and Translational Gerontology Branch (M.S., L.F., C.W.C.), National Institute on Aging, and Imaging Section (M.G.), Medstar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21225; and Section on Men's Health, Aging, and Metabolism (S.B.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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Kathrins M, Doersch K, Nimeh T, Canto A, Niederberger C, Seftel A. The Relationship Between Testosterone-Replacement Therapy and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Systematic Review. Urology 2016; 88:22-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2015.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Abstract
The use of testosterone to treat the symptoms of late-onset hypogonadal men has increased recently due to patient and physician awareness. However, concerns regarding the effect of testosterone on the prostate, in particular any possible effect on the risk of prostate cancer have prompted further research in this regard. Surprisingly, numerous retrospective or small, randomized trials have pointed to a possible improvement in male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients treated with testosterone. The exact mechanism of this improvement is still debated but may have a close relationship to metabolic syndrome. For the clinician, the results of these studies are promising but do not constitute high levels of evidence. A thorough clinical examination (including history, examination and laboratory testing of testosterone) should be undertaken before considering the diagnosis of late-onset hypogonadism or instigating treatment for it. Warnings still remain on the testosterone supplement product labels regarding the risk of urinary retention and worsening LUTS, and these should be explained to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bilal Chughtai
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
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21
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Leung KMYB, Alrabeeah K, Carrier S. Update on Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Hypogonadal Men. Curr Urol Rep 2015; 16:57. [DOI: 10.1007/s11934-015-0523-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Abstract
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a widely used treatment for men with symptomatic hypogonadism. The benefits seen with TRT, such as increased libido and energy level, beneficial effects on bone density, strength and muscle as well as cardioprotective effects, have been well-documented. TRT is contraindicated in men with untreated prostate and breast cancer. Men on TRT should be monitored for side-effects such as polycythemia, peripheral edema, cardiac and hepatic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Charles Osterberg
- Department of Urology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical College, Starr 900, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aaron M Bernie
- Department of Urology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical College, Starr 900, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Department of Urology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical College, Starr 900, New York, NY, USA
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Men who have symptoms associated with persistently low serum total testosterone level should be assessed for testosterone replacement therapy. AREAS COVERED Acute and chronic illnesses are associated with low serum testosterone and these should be recognized and treated. Once the diagnosis of male hypogonadism is made, the benefits of testosterone treatment usually outweigh the risks. Without contraindications, the patient should be offered testosterone replacement therapy. The options of testosterone delivery systems (injections, transdermal patches/gels, buccal tablets, capsules and implants) have increased in the last decade. Testosterone improves symptoms and signs of hypogonadism such as sexual function and energy, increases bone density and lean mass and decreases visceral adiposity. In men who desire fertility and who have secondary hypogonadism, testosterone can be withdrawn and the patients can be placed on gonadotropins. New modified designer androgens and selective androgen receptor modulators have been in preclinical and clinical trials for some time. None of these have been assessed for the treatment of male hypogonadism. EXPERT OPINION Despite the lack of prospective long-term data from randomized, controlled clinical trials of testosterone treatment on prostate health and cardiovascular disease risk, the available evidence suggests that testosterone therapy should be offered to symptomatic hypogonadal men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasanth Surampudi
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine , Torrance, CA, 90509 , USA
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Abstract
Male hypogonadism is a clinical syndrome that results from failure to produce physiological concentrations of testosterone, normal amounts of sperm, or both. Hypogonadism may arise from testicular disease (primary hypogonadism) or dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary unit (secondary hypogonadism). Clinical presentations vary dependent on the time of onset of androgen deficiency, whether the defect is in testosterone production or spermatogenesis, associated genetic factors, or history of androgen therapy. The clinical diagnosis of hypogonadism is made on the basis of signs and symptoms consistent with androgen deficiency and low morning testosterone concentrations in serum on multiple occasions. Several testosterone-replacement therapies are approved for treatment and should be selected according to the patient's preference, cost, availability, and formulation-specific properties. Contraindications to testosterone-replacement therapy include prostate and breast cancers, uncontrolled congestive heart failure, severe lower-urinary-tract symptoms, and erythrocytosis. Treatment should be monitored for benefits and adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shehzad Basaria
- Section on Men's Health, Aging and Metabolism, Division of Endocrinology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Vignozzi L, Rastrelli G, Corona G, Gacci M, Forti G, Maggi M. Benign prostatic hyperplasia: a new metabolic disease? J Endocrinol Invest 2014; 37:313-22. [PMID: 24458832 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-014-0051-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 12/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are conditions extremely prevalent in the aging male. Although androgens are involved in prostate growth during developmental age, their role in the pathogenesis of BPH/LUTS is debated. Recent data indicate that low testosterone and high estradiol favor disease progression. In addition, the role of other determinants, such as metabolic syndrome or prostate inflammation, is emerging. AIM We reviewed the evidence regarding the pathogenesis of BPH/LUTS with particular attention to metabolic influence. MATERIALS AND METHODS A review of published evidence was performed using Medline. RESULTS Available evidence shows that a three-hit hypothesis can be drawn. An overt, or even a subclinical, bacterial or viral infection could induce prostatic inflammation (first hit) that could be autosustained or exacerbated by the presence of an altered metabolism and in particular by hypercholesterolemia (second hit). Hypogonadism and/or hyperestrogenism could act as a third hit, favoring the maintenance of this inflammatory state. The combined action of all three hits, or even two of them, may result in overexpression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), transformation of prostatic cells into antigen-presenting cells and activation of resident human prostate-associated lymphoid tissue ending in overproduction of growth factors which, in turn, will induce prostate remodeling and further prostate enlargement. The mechanical obstruction, along with the direct action of the unfavorable metabolic and hormonal milieu on the bladder neck, helps in generating LUTS. CONCLUSION Inflammation, dyslipidemia and altered sex-steroid milieu mutually concur in determining BPH/LUTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Vignozzi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
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Cooper LA, Page ST. Androgens and prostate disease. Asian J Androl 2014; 16:248-55. [PMID: 24407178 PMCID: PMC3955334 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.122361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Revised: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of literature has established the anabolic benefi ts of testosterone (T) therapy in hypogonadal men. However, there remains a paucity of data regarding the risks of exogenous androgen use in older men and the potential for adverse effects on the prostate gland. Whether T therapy in older, hypogonadal men might worsen lower urinary tract symptoms or exacerbate, unmask, or even incite prostate cancer development has tempered enthusiasm for T therapy, while known prostatic disease has served as a relative contraindication to T therapy. Androgens are necessary for the development and maintenance of the prostate gland. However, epidemiologic studies do not consistently fi nd a positive relationship between endogenous serum androgen concentrations and the risk of prostate disease. Recent data demonstrate that 5α-reductase inhibitors decrease the risk of low-grade prostate cancer, suggesting that modifying androgen metabolism may have beneficial effects on prostate health, yet similar reductions in high-grade disease have not been observed, thereby questioning the true clinical benefits of these agents for chemoprevention. Knowing how to best investigate the relationship between androgens and the development of prostate disease given the lack of large, randomized trials is difficult. Accumulating data challenges the assumption that alterations in serum androgens have parallel effects within the prostate hormonal environment or change androgen-regulated processes within the gland. Long-term intervention studies are needed to truly ascertain the effects of androgen manipulation on prostate tissue and disease risk. However, available data do not support the notion that restoring serum androgens to normal physiologic ranges drives prostate disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori A Cooper
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Stephanie T Page
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- University of Washington and Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Francomano D, Ilacqua A, Bruzziches R, Lenzi A, Aversa A. Effects of 5-Year Treatment With Testosterone Undecanoate on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Obese Men With Hypogonadism and Metabolic Syndrome. Urology 2014; 83:167-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2013.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2013] [Revised: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 08/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Kaplan SA, Lee JY, O'Neill EA, Meehan AG, Kusek JW. Prevalence of low testosterone and its relationship to body mass index in older men with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Aging Male 2013; 16:169-72. [PMID: 24134648 DOI: 10.3109/13685538.2013.844786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined the prevalence of low testosterone (LT) and its relationship with body mass index (BMI) in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), who were enrolled in a clinical trial of drug therapy, the Medical Therapy of Prostatic Symptoms (MTOPS) Study. MATERIALS AND METHODS MTOPS enrolled 3047 men, and of these, 1896 had total testosterone (TT) measured at baseline. LT was defined as a single measurement of TT of <300 ng/dL. RESULTS The overall prevalence of LT was 25.7%. Prevalence increased with increasing BMI; 14.7% among men who were normal weight (BMI <25 kg/m(2)) and 24.2% and 39.3% among overweight (BMI 25 to <30 kg/m(2)), and obese (baseline BMI ≥30 kg/m(2)) men, respectively. CONCLUSIONS LT was observed in about one in four MTOPS study participants with baseline TT measurements. The prevalence of LT increased markedly with increasing BMI. Our findings suggest a high prevalence of LT in obese men with LUTS/BPH. Physicians should be alert to the possibility of symptoms of hypogonadism in this population.
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Francomano D, Greco EA, Lenzi A, Aversa A. CAG repeat testing of androgen receptor polymorphism: is this necessary for the best clinical management of hypogonadism? J Sex Med 2013; 10:2373-81. [PMID: 23844628 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It is controversial whether or not testing the length of the androgen receptor polymorphism in clinical practice is useful for correct diagnosis and treatment of hypogonadism. AIM To describe the molecular and clinical implications of testing the length of the androgen receptor polymorphism for treatment of hypogonadism in both male and female subjects. METHODS A systematic Medline search was conducted using several terms related to and including the terms "androgen receptor," "CAG-repeat polymorphism," "male hypogonadism," "female hypogonadism," and "neurodegenerative disease." MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Clinical evidence that demonstrates the importance of CAG repeat number investigation in male and female hypogonadism. RESULTS A thorough review of the clinical utility of CAG repeat polymorphism investigation in men and women with hypogonadism is presented. CONCLUSIONS The role of AR CAG repeat number investigation in hypogonadism (male and female) is not yet established in the clinical practice. In both sexes, a role during clinical management of hormonal replacement therapies may be hypothesized, but the CAG repeat number's relationship with the presence or absence of hypogonadal symptoms remains unclear. Pharmacogenomic investigations of the AR polymorphism may be a future option to tailor testosterone titration individually and to better identify subjects as potentially more or less responsive to treatments; also, investigation may be important to individually predict beneficial and side effects in special subpopulations, specifically, obese men and postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Francomano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology and Food and Science Section, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
PURPOSE Testosterone replacement therapy is commonly used to treat men with hypogonadism. However, there has been caution in using testosterone replacement therapy in men with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms for fear of worsening the symptoms. In this study we examine the effect of testosterone replacement therapy on lower urinary tract symptoms in hypogonadal men. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed our outpatient database and identified patients with a diagnosis of hypogonadism who received testosterone replacement therapy from 2002 to 2012. Lower urinary tract symptoms were assessed using the AUASI (American Urological Association symptom index) before and after testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone and prostate specific antigen were also continuously measured, and all patients were closely monitored for side effects of testosterone replacement therapy. Patients who had progression of lower urinary tract symptoms to the point of requiring surgery were included in the study. RESULTS We identified 120 hypogonadal men who received testosterone replacement therapy, the majority of whom had topical therapy or a combination of topical and pellet based therapy (57.5% and 20.8%, respectively). Mean baseline AUASI (±SD) was 10.8 (±7.8) and mean duration of testosterone replacement therapy was 692 days (±773). Mean change in AUASI was -1.07 (±6.06). Mean baseline prostate specific antigen was 1.6 ng/dl (±1.9) and mean change in prostate specific antigen was 0.44 (±2.2). Of the patients 8.1% had a baseline prostate specific antigen greater than 4.0 ng/dl, and these patients had greater improvement in AUASI than those with a baseline prostate specific antigen less than 4.0 ng/dl (-1.9 vs -1.0, p not significant). Overall 45.8% of patients had a less than 3-point change in AUASI in either direction. Of the 120 patients 38 (31.7%) had improvement in AUASI 3 or more points while 27 (22.5%) had worsening of AUASI 3 or more points. Patients with an improved AUASI had a mean prostate specific antigen change of 0.3 (±3.4), while those who had worsening of AUASI had a mean prostate specific antigen change of 0.7 (±2.2) (p not significant). Approximately 9 of 120 (7.5%) of these men initiated new medications for lower urinary tract symptoms during the course of the study. There was no significant change in AUASI compared to patients without any use of lower urinary tract symptoms medications. In addition, 4 (3.3%) patients had progression of lower urinary tract symptoms and required transurethral resection of the prostate. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that initiating testosterone replacement therapy in hypogonadal men involves a low risk of worsening lower urinary tract symptoms. In fact, many men experience symptom improvement while changes in prostate specific antigen appear minor. Future research should focus on larger patient population studies to further examine this relationship.
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Kaplan SA, O'Neill E, Lowe R, Hanson M, Meehan AG. Prevalence of low testosterone in aging men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: data from the Proscar Long-term Efficacy and Safety Study (PLESS). Aging Male 2013; 16:48-51. [PMID: 23480623 DOI: 10.3109/13685538.2013.773421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined the prevalence of low testosterone (LT) in the subset of men in the Proscar Long-term Efficacy and Safety Study (PLESS) who had serum total testosterone (TT) measured at baseline. METHODS PLESS enrolled 3040 men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Of these men, 299 had TT and body mass index (BMI) measurements at baseline. Patients were classified as having LT if their baseline TT was <300 ng/dl. RESULTS Of the 299 PLESS patients with baseline TT and BMI measurements, 65 (21.7%) had LT. The prevalence of LT increased with increasing BMI, occurring in 8/78 (10.3%) normal weight patients (baseline BMI <25 kg/m2), 35/160 (21.9%) overweight patients (baseline BMI ≥25-<30 kg/m2), and 22/61 (36.1%) obese patients (baseline BMI ≥30 kg/m2). CONCLUSIONS LT was observed in more than one in five PLESS patients with baseline TT and BMI measurements. The prevalence of LT increased with increasing BMI - more than one in three obese PLESS patients with baseline TT measurements had LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A Kaplan
- Institute of Bladder and Prostate Health, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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Polackwich AS, Ostrowski KA, Hedges JC. Testosterone replacement therapy and prostate health. Curr Urol Rep 2013; 13:441-6. [PMID: 22927059 DOI: 10.1007/s11934-012-0275-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
There is an emerging evolution in the understanding of the relationship between the prostate and testosterone. It has long been generally believed that with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), increasing serum testosterone levels led to prostatic growth and worsening of voiding dysfunction and associated complications. A new theory, the Saturation Model of Testosterone and its effect on the Prostate has gained attention. This theory suggests that the prostate's response to increasing levels of serum testosterone reaches a limit beyond which there is minimal effect. This model predicts that testosterone replacement therapy occurs above this saturation point, and replacing testosterone to eugonadal levels should not worsen prostate related benign disease. We evaluated the recent published data, with an emphasis on clinical studies done within the last 3 years, for the effects of testosterone supplementation on benign prostatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Scott Polackwich
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, 97239, USA.
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Tan WS, Low WY, Ng CJ, Tan WK, Tong SF, Ho C, Khoo EM, Lee G, Lee BC, Lee V, Tan HM. Efficacy and safety of long-acting intramuscular testosterone undecanoate in aging men: a randomised controlled study. BJU Int 2013; 111:1130-40. [PMID: 23651425 DOI: 10.1111/bju.12037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of long-acting i.m. testosterone undecanoate (TU) in Malaysian men with testosterone deficiency (TD). PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 120 men, aged 40-70 years, with TD (serum total testosterone [TT] ≤ 12 nmol/L) were randomised to receive either i.m. TU (1000 mg) or placebo. In all, 58 and 56 men in the placebo and treatment arm, respectively, completed the study. Participants were seen six times in the 48-week period and the following data were collected: physical examination results, haemoglobin, haematocrit, TT, lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, sex hormone-binding globulin, liver function test, prostate- specific antigen (PSA) and adverse events. RESULTS The mean (sd) age of the participants was 53.4 (7.6) years. A significant increase in serum TT (P < 0.001), PSA (P = 0.010), haematocrit (P < 0.001), haemoglobin (P < 0.001) and total bilirubin (P = 0.001) were seen in the treatment arm over the 48-week period. Two men in the placebo arm and one man in the treatment arm developed myocardial infarction. Common adverse events observed in the treatment arm included itching/swelling/pain at the site of injection, flushing and acne. Overall, TU injections were well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS TU significantly increases serum testosterone in men with TD. PSA, haemoglobin and haematocrit were significantly elevated but were within clinically safe limits. There was no significant adverse reaction that led to the cessation of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shen Tan
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, 74 Huntley St., London, UK.
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Raynaud JP, Gardette J, Rollet J, Legros JJ. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentrations in hypogonadal men during 6 years of transdermal testosterone treatment. BJU Int 2013; 111:880-90. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-410x.2012.11514.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jacques Rollet
- Institut Rhône alpin; Médicentre Val Ouest 69130 Ecully France
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Affiliation(s)
- Akinlolu Ojumu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA
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Abstract
Age-related hormonal decline is gradual and less recognized in men than in women. Symptoms are oftentimes ignored and non-specific. Fatigue, lack of concentration, mood swings, decreased sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, infertility, hair loss, reduced muscle and bone mass, and weight gain are a few of the symptoms of male hypogonadism. This disorder is linked to reduction in quality of life, and poorer health outcomes as it may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, Alzheimer's disease and premature death. Different modalities of testosterone replacement therapy have evolved over 70 years, and sales continue to grow. Each preparation is differentiated by route of delivery, ease of use, cost and pharmacokinetics. Topical/transdermal testosterone replacement therapy, including patches and gels, are the most modern formulations on the market. These are more expensive treatments, but yield more physiological concentrations of testosterone. Restoration of testosterone levels to the eugonadal range reverses signs and symptoms of hypogonadism, except for infertility, and may alleviate co-morbidities associated with hypogonadism. Patient understanding of and compliance with both treatment and monitoring are of utmost importance to achieve clinical success with maximum benefit and minimum risk. The aim of our review is to summarize the indications, contraindications, benefits and risks of testosterone replacement therapy as they relate to transdermal administration. Further, we compare the various testosterone preparations, focusing on the newest topical/transdermal routes of administration that are currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina A Abadilla
- Johns Hopkins UniversitySinai Hospital Program in Internal Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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37
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Giannoulis MG, Martin FC, Nair KS, Umpleby AM, Sonksen P. Hormone replacement therapy and physical function in healthy older men. Time to talk hormones? Endocr Rev 2012; 33:314-77. [PMID: 22433122 PMCID: PMC5393154 DOI: 10.1210/er.2012-1002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Improving physical function and mobility in a continuously expanding elderly population emerges as a high priority of medicine today. Muscle mass, strength/power, and maximal exercise capacity are major determinants of physical function, and all decline with aging. This contributes to the incidence of frailty and disability observed in older men. Furthermore, it facilitates the accumulation of body fat and development of insulin resistance. Muscle adaptation to exercise is strongly influenced by anabolic endocrine hormones and local load-sensitive autocrine/paracrine growth factors. GH, IGF-I, and testosterone (T) are directly involved in muscle adaptation to exercise because they promote muscle protein synthesis, whereas T and locally expressed IGF-I have been reported to activate muscle stem cells. Although exercise programs improve physical function, in the long-term most older men fail to comply. The GH/IGF-I axis and T levels decline markedly with aging, whereas accumulating evidence supports their indispensable role in maintaining physical function integrity. Several studies have reported that the administration of T improves lean body mass and maximal voluntary strength in healthy older men. On the other hand, most studies have shown that administration of GH alone failed to improve muscle strength despite amelioration of the detrimental somatic changes of aging. Both GH and T are anabolic agents that promote muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy but work through separate mechanisms, and the combined administration of GH and T, albeit in only a few studies, has resulted in greater efficacy than either hormone alone. Although it is clear that this combined approach is effective, this review concludes that further studies are needed to assess the long-term efficacy and safety of combined hormone replacement therapy in older men before the medical rationale of prescribing hormone replacement therapy for combating the sarcopenia of aging can be established.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Finbarr C. Martin
- Guy's and St. Thomas' National Health Service Foundation Trust (F.C.M.), and Institute of Gerontology (F.C.M.), King's College, London WC2R 2LS, United Kingdom
| | | | - A. Margot Umpleby
- Department of Human Metabolism, Diabetes, and Metabolic Medicine (A.M.U.), Postgraduate Medical School, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Sonksen
- St. Thomas' Hospital and King's College (P.S.), London SE1 7EW, United Kingdom; and Southampton University (P.S.), SO17 1BJ, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Schwartz E, Morelli V, Holtorf K. Hormone replacement therapy in the geriatric patient: current state of the evidence and questions for the future--estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormone augmentation in geriatric clinical practice: part 2. Clin Geriatr Med 2012; 27:561-75. [PMID: 22062441 DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2011.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The data reviewed herein show that hormone replacement therapies improve some conditions associated with aging. Additionally, some of the long-held fears of significant side effects associated with hormone supplementation may be overstated, especially when providing patients with individualized care and optimal monitoring. We encourage clinicians to consider such interventions based on the evidence presented.More long-term studies are needed to further quantify and substantiate the risks and benefits associated with the use of such therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Schwartz
- Age Management Institute, 200 West 57 Street, New York, NY 10019, USA.
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Saad F, Aversa A, Isidori AM, Zafalon L, Zitzmann M, Gooren L. Onset of effects of testosterone treatment and time span until maximum effects are achieved. Eur J Endocrinol 2011; 165:675-85. [PMID: 21753068 PMCID: PMC3188848 DOI: 10.1530/eje-11-0221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Testosterone has a spectrum of effects on the male organism. This review attempts to determine, from published studies, the time-course of the effects induced by testosterone replacement therapy from their first manifestation until maximum effects are attained. DESIGN Literature data on testosterone replacement. RESULTS Effects on sexual interest appear after 3 weeks plateauing at 6 weeks, with no further increments expected beyond. Changes in erections/ejaculations may require up to 6 months. Effects on quality of life manifest within 3-4 weeks, but maximum benefits take longer. Effects on depressive mood become detectable after 3-6 weeks with a maximum after 18-30 weeks. Effects on erythropoiesis are evident at 3 months, peaking at 9-12 months. Prostate-specific antigen and volume rise, marginally, plateauing at 12 months; further increase should be related to aging rather than therapy. Effects on lipids appear after 4 weeks, maximal after 6-12 months. Insulin sensitivity may improve within few days, but effects on glycemic control become evident only after 3-12 months. Changes in fat mass, lean body mass, and muscle strength occur within 12-16 weeks, stabilize at 6-12 months, but can marginally continue over years. Effects on inflammation occur within 3-12 weeks. Effects on bone are detectable already after 6 months while continuing at least for 3 years. CONCLUSION The time-course of the spectrum of effects of testosterone shows considerable variation, probably related to pharmacodynamics of the testosterone preparation. Genomic and non-genomic effects, androgen receptor polymorphism and intracellular steroid metabolism further contribute to such diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Saad
- Scientific Affairs Men's Healthcare, BU General Medicine/Men's Healthcare, Bayer Pharma AG, D-13342 Berlin, Germany.
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Shigehara K, Namiki M. Late-onset hypogonadism syndrome and lower urinary tract symptoms. Korean J Urol 2011; 52:657-63. [PMID: 22087358 PMCID: PMC3212658 DOI: 10.4111/kju.2011.52.10.657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2011] [Accepted: 06/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgen replacement therapy (ART) is a widely accepted form of treatment worldwide for aging men with late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) syndrome. Concurrent with the progressive decline in testosterone from middle age, there is a gradual increase in prostate volume, reflecting the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Prostate growth is dependent on the presence of androgens, and conversely, antiandrogen agents or orchidectomy can decrease prostate volume in patients with BPH. Thus, it is important to investigate whether ART could have any negative effects on prostatic disease or lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Although only limited amounts of information on the correlations between androgen levels in aging men and clinical manifestations of LUTS are available, a few recent studies have suggested that testosterone levels may have some beneficial effects on various urinary functions in men. Androgen receptors are found in the urothelium, urinary bladder, prostate, and urethra, and testosterone could have an impact on the autonomic nervous system, bladder smooth muscle differentiation, nitric oxide synthase, phosphodiesterase-5 and Rho/Rho-kinase activities, and pelvic blood flow. In addition, some previous studies demonstrated that ART had little effect on LUTS or urinary function in aging men with LOH syndrome. Furthermore, some recent randomized controlled trials indicated that short-term ART may be effective in the improvement of LUTS in hypogonadal men with mild BPH. However, only limited information is available regarding the effects of longer-term ART or the safety of ART in men with severe BPH and LUTS, and further studies are required to reach more definitive conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyoshi Shigehara
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Ishikawa, Japan
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41
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Abstract
An effective, safe, reversible, and acceptable method of contraception is an important component of reproductive health and provides the opportunity of shared responsibility for family planning for both partners. Female hormonal contraceptives have been proven to be safe, reversible, available and widely acceptable by different populations. In contrast, male hormonal contraception, despite significant progress showing contraceptive efficacy comparable to female hormonal methods during last three decades, has not yet led to an approved product. Safety of a pharmaceutical product is an appropriate concern but the majority of male hormonal contraceptive clinical trials have not reported significant short term safety concerns. While the absence of serious adverse effects is encouraging, the studies have been designed for efficacy endpoints not long term safety. In this review we summarize potential risks and benefits of putative male hormonal contraceptives on reproductive and non-reproductive organs. While the review covers what we believe will be the likely class of drugs used for male hormonal contraception a true assessment of long term risks and benefits cannot be achieved without an available product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloufar Ilani
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Torrance, CA 90509, USA
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42
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Abstract
The controversies surrounding testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) have been addressed in the past few years. Although the androgenic effects of TRT on normal and malignant prostate cells have been studied for over 70 years, little clinical prospective research exists on the physiological responses of prostate tissues to a wide range of serum testosterone levels. The prostate is both an androgen-dependent and an androgen-sensitive organ; active processes are triggered at a 'threshold' or 'saturation' level of testosterone. Despite decades of research, no compelling evidence exists that increasing testosterone beyond this threshold level has a causative role in prostate cancer, or indeed changes the biology of the prostate. Testosterone deficiency has marked physiological and clinical effects on men in middle age and beyond. With subnormal testosterone levels, the potential positive benefits of TRT on factors such as muscle mass, libido or erectile function are likely a dose-response phenomenon, and should be considered differently than the threshold influence on the prostate. This Review will re-examine classic androgen research and reflect on whether testosterone actually stimulates prostatic cellular growth and progression in a 'threshold' or a 'dose-response' (or both) manner, as well as discuss the influence of testosterone on prostate cells in the hypogonadal and eugonadal states.
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Molecular mechanisms of bladder outlet obstruction in transgenic male mice overexpressing aromatase (Cyp19a1). THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 178:1233-44. [PMID: 21356374 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2010.11.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2010] [Revised: 10/12/2010] [Accepted: 11/09/2010] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the etiology and molecular mechanisms of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). Transgenic (Tg) male mice overexpressing aromatase (Cyp19a1) under the ubiquitin C promoter in the estrogen-susceptible C57Bl/6J genetic background (AROM+/6J) developed inguinal hernia by 2 months and severe BOO by 9 to 10 months, with 100% penetrance. These mice gradually developed uremia, renal failure, renal retention, and finally died. The BOO bladders were threefold larger than in age-matched wild-type (WT) males and were filled with urine on necropsy. Hypotrophic smooth muscle cells formed the thin detrusor urinae muscle, and collagen III accumulation contributed to the reduced compliance of the bladder. p-AKT and ERα expression were up-regulated and Pten expression was down-regulated in the BOO bladder urothelium. Expression of only ERα in the intradetrusor fibroblasts suggests a specific role of this estrogen receptor form in urothelial proliferation. Inactivation of Pten, which in turn activated the p-AKT pathway, was strictly related to the activation of the ERα pathway in the BOO bladders. Human relevance for these findings was provided by increased expression of p-AKT, PCNA, and ERα and decreased expression of PTEN in severe human BOO samples, compared with subnormal to mild samples. These findings clarify the involvement of estrogen excess and/or imbalance of the androgen/estrogen ratio in the molecular pathogenetic mechanisms of BOO and provide a novel lead into potential treatment strategies for BOO.
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Dutasteride reduces prostate size and prostate specific antigen in older hypogonadal men with benign prostatic hyperplasia undergoing testosterone replacement therapy. J Urol 2011; 186:191-7. [PMID: 21575967 DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2011.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Benign prostatic hyperplasia and hypogonadism are common disorders in aging men. There is concern that androgen replacement in older men may increase prostate size and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. We examined whether combining dutasteride, which inhibits testosterone to dihydrotestosterone conversion, with testosterone treatment in older hypogonadal men with benign prostatic hyperplasia reduces androgenic stimulation of the prostate compared to testosterone alone. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a double-blind, placebo controlled trial of 53 men 51 to 82 years old with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate volume 30 cc or greater and serum total testosterone less than 280 ng/dl (less than 9.7 nmol/l). Subjects were randomized to daily transdermal 1% T gel plus oral placebo or dutasteride for 6 months. Testosterone dosing was adjusted to a serum testosterone of 500 to 1,000 ng/dl. The primary outcomes were prostate volume measured by magnetic resonance imaging, serum prostate specific antigen and androgen levels. RESULTS A total of 46 subjects completed all procedures. Serum testosterone increased similarly into the mid-normal range in both groups. Serum dihydrotestosterone increased in the testosterone only but decreased in the testosterone plus dutasteride group. In the testosterone plus dutasteride group prostate volume and prostate specific antigen (mean ± SEM) decreased 12% ± 2.5% and 35% ± 5%, respectively, compared to the testosterone only group in which prostate volume and prostate specific antigen increased 7.5% ± 3.3% and 19% ± 7% (p = 0.03 and p = 0.008), respectively, after 6 months of treatment. Prostate symptom scores improved in both groups. CONCLUSIONS Combined treatment with testosterone plus dutasteride reduces prostate volume and prostate specific antigen compared to testosterone only. Coadministration of a 5α-reductase inhibitor with testosterone appears to spare the prostate from androgenic stimulation during testosterone replacement in older, hypogonadal men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgens play an essential role in the development and differentiation of the prostate gland; their contribution to pathological conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer (PC), remains unclear. AIM We reviewed relationships between androgens and the prostate both in physiological and pathological conditions. MATERIAL AND METHODS A systematic search of published evidence was performed using Medline (1969 to September 2010). RESULTS Androgen-dependency of prostate growth is evident only in the hypogonadal condition, but not in the eugonadal state (the "saturation hypothesis"). There is unequivocal evidence that reducing androgen signaling to the hypogonadal range can reduce PC growth and patient symptoms. At physiological testosterone concentration there is no link between androgen levels and PC risk. In addition, different strategies of androgen deprivation (ADT) for advanced PC are only palliative and rarely cure patients. Preliminary evidence indicates that a low androgen milieu is associated with tumor aggressiveness. Transition to androgen-independence is complex and involves both selection and outgrowth of preexisting androgen resistant clones, as well as adaptative upregulation of genes that help the cancer cells to survive and grow after ADT. Because androgens are essential for the regulation of fat distribution, insulin sensitivity, and lipid and bone metabolism, recent publications have highlighted the concept that ADT may also be involved with an increase in overall, as well as cardiovascular, morbidity and mortality. CONCLUSIONS While ADT still represents a cornerstone for the palliative therapy of a small fraction of aggressive PC, a "misuse and/or abuse" of ADT should be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Corona
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
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46
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Page ST, Lin DW, Mostaghel EA, Marck BT, Wright JL, Wu J, Amory JK, Nelson PS, Matsumoto AM. Dihydrotestosterone administration does not increase intraprostatic androgen concentrations or alter prostate androgen action in healthy men: a randomized-controlled trial. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2011; 96:430-7. [PMID: 21177791 PMCID: PMC3048323 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-1865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Concern exists that androgen treatment might adversely impact prostate health in older men. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), derived from local conversion of testosterone to DHT by 5α-reductase enzymes, is the principal androgen within the prostate. Exogenous androgens raise serum DHT concentrations, but their effects on the prostate are not clear. OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of large increases in serum DHT concentrations on intraprostatic androgen concentrations and androgen action within the prostate. DESIGN Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled. SETTING Single academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS 31 healthy men ages 35-55. INTERVENTION Daily transdermal DHT or placebo gel. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Serum and prostate tissue androgen concentrations and prostate epithelial cell gene expression after 4 wk of treatment. RESULTS Twenty-seven men completed all study procedures. Serum DHT levels increased nearly sevenfold, while testosterone levels decreased in men treated with daily transdermal DHT gel but were unchanged in the placebo-treated group (P < 0.01 between groups). In contrast, intraprostatic DHT and testosterone concentrations on d 28 were not different between groups (DHT: placebo = 2.8 ± 0.2 vs. DHT gel = 3.1 ± 0.5 ng/g; T: placebo = 0.6 ± 0.2 vs. DHT gel = 0.4 ± 0.1, mean ± se). Similarly, prostate volume, prostate-specific antigen, epithelial cell proliferation, and androgen-regulated gene expression were not different between groups. CONCLUSIONS Robust supraphysiologic increases in serum DHT, associated with decreased serum T, do not significantly alter intraprostatic levels of DHT, testosterone, or prostate epithelial cell androgen-regulated gene expression in healthy men. Changes in circulating androgen concentrations are not necessarily mimicked within the prostate microenvironment, a finding with implications for understanding the impact of androgen therapies in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie T Page
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Nutrition, University of Washington School of Medicine, Box 357138, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA.
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Abstract
CONTEXT Symptoms and signs consistent with androgen deficiency and low testosterone levels are recognized frequently in clinical practice. Recent population-based epidemiological studies indicate that low testosterone levels in men are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The clinician must be able to counsel patients to help them determine whether testosterone replacement therapy is appropriate for them. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION The authors have conducted a literature search in PubMed, and we have reviewed references in the multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses that have been published on this topic. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS We have attempted to provide the reader with an appreciation of the evidence that can be used to support the diagnosis of androgen deficiency, the efficacy of treatment, the potential risks of treatment, the therapeutic options, and the recommendations for monitoring treatment. CONCLUSIONS We think that published clinical experience justifies testosterone replacement therapy in males who have not initiated puberty by age 14 and in males with low testosterone levels due to classical diseases of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The benefit:risk ratio is less certain in older men and in those with chronic diseases associated with low testosterone levels. The decision to treat in this setting is much more controversial because there are few large clinical trials that have demonstrated efficacy and no large clinical trials that have determined potential risks of increasing the incidence of clinical prostate cancers or cardiovascular events. We provide a critical review of the evidence that supports treatment and potential risks and ways to reduce the risks if the physician and patient elect testosterone replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn R Cunningham
- Baylor College of Medicine and St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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Dhatariya K, Nagi D, Jones TH. ABCD position statement on the management of hypogonadal males with type 2 diabetes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/pdi.1535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Hugh Jones T. 'What should I do with a 60-year old man with a slightly low serum total testosterone concentration and normal levels of serum gonadotrophins'? Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2010; 72:584-8. [PMID: 19878210 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2009.03737.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The fundamental question in assessing an older man with a slightly low total testosterone and normal gonadotrophin levels is to determine whether or not he has clinical hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is defined as a clinical syndrome complex, which comprises both symptoms as well as biochemical testosterone deficiency. As symptoms are nonspecific and there are no clear cut-off values for testosterone levels this invariably leads to a clinical dilemma. International guidelines have been published which provide recommendations to aid the clinician in making a diagnosis. Late-onset hypogonadism, the preferred terminology for age-related hypogonadism, can only be made once other causes have been excluded. Evidence shows that low testosterone levels are associated with several common male conditions including erectile dysfunction, osteoporosis and diabetes. Short-term studies have shown benefits of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) on body composition, bone metabolism, insulin resistance, sexual function and quality of life. Recommendations give clear advice on safety monitoring, specifically in relation to prostate health. If a diagnosis of hypogonadism is made with borderline testosterone levels then a 3-month trial of TRT can be considered. The diagnosis of hypogonadism associated with borderline testosterone levels and the decision to treat should only be made by an experienced clinician.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Hugh Jones
- Robert Hague Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Barnsley Hospital, Barnsley and Academic Unit of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
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