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Tienforti D, Savignano G, Spagnolo L, Di Giulio F, Baroni MG, Barbonetti A. Biochemical liver damage during gender affirming therapy in trans adults assigned female at birth: a meta-analysis. J Endocrinol Invest 2024:10.1007/s40618-024-02418-y. [PMID: 38909133 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02418-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the effects of testosterone (T)-based gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on liver blood tests (LBTs) in assigned female at birth adults, using a meta-analytic approach. METHODS Prospective and retrospective studies were selected that reported the prevalence of biochemical liver damage (BLD) and LBTs changes during T therapy. Data collected included pre-and-during therapy alanine-aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl-transferase (GGT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) mean concentration values. RESULTS The prevalence of BLD in 14 studies on 1698 subjects was 1% (95% CI 0.00-3.00; I2 = 14.1%; p = 0.82). In 17 studies on 2758 subjects, GAHT was associated with a statistically (but not clinically) significant increase in AST, GGT and ALP at 12 months and ALT at 3-7 (MD: 1.19 IU/l; 95% CI 0.31, 2.08; I2: 0%), at 12 (MD: 2.31 IU/l; 95% CI 1.41, 3.21; I2: 29%), but with no more significant increase at 24 months (MD: 1.71 IU/l; 95% CI -0.02, 3.44; I2: 0%). CONCLUSIONS Analysis of aggregate estimates confirms a low risk of BLD and abnormalities in LBTs, transient in most cases, during T-based GAHT, thus suggesting a limited need for careful liver monitoring in AFAB people.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Tienforti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - G Savignano
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - L Spagnolo
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - F Di Giulio
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M G Baroni
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - A Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
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2
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Hernandez PA, Bradford JC, Brahmachary P, Ulman S, Robinson JL, June RK, Cucchiarini M. Unraveling sex-specific risks of knee osteoarthritis before menopause: Do sex differences start early in life? Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2024:S1063-4584(24)01172-5. [PMID: 38703811 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2024.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sufficient evidence within the past two decades have shown that osteoarthritis (OA) has a sex-specific component. However, efforts to reveal the biological causes of this disparity have emerged more gradually. In this narrative review, we discuss anatomical differences within the knee, incidence of injuries in youth sports, and metabolic factors that present early in life (childhood and early adulthood) that can contribute to a higher risk of OA in females. DESIGN We compiled clinical data from multiple tissues within the knee joint-since OA is a whole joint disorder-aiming to reveal relevant factors behind the sex differences from different perspectives. RESULTS The data gathered in this review indicate that sex differences in articular cartilage, meniscus, and anterior cruciate ligament are detected as early as childhood and are not only explained by sex hormones. Aiming to unveil the biological causes of the uneven sex-specific risks for knee OA, we review the current knowledge of sex differences mostly in young, but also including old populations, from the perspective of (i) human anatomy in both healthy and pathological conditions, (ii) physical activity and response to injury, and (iii) metabolic signatures. CONCLUSIONS We propose that to close the gap in health disparities, and specifically regarding OA, we should address sex-specific anatomic, biologic, and metabolic factors at early stages in life, as a way to prevent the higher severity and incidence of OA in women later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula A Hernandez
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| | | | - Priyanka Brahmachary
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
| | - Sophia Ulman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA; Movement Science Laboratory, Scottish Rite for Children, Frisco, TX 75034, USA.
| | - Jennifer L Robinson
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
| | - Ronald K June
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar D-66421, Germany.
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3
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Iwamoto SJ, Rothman MS, T’Sjoen G, Defreyne J. Approach to the Patient: Hormonal Therapy in Transgender Adults With Complex Medical Histories. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:592-602. [PMID: 37683089 PMCID: PMC10795931 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
While endocrinologists continue to initiate gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in healthy transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients, they may also encounter more TGD patients in their clinics with complex medical histories that influence the patient-provider shared decision-making process for initiating or continuing GAHT. The purpose of this Approach to the Patient article is to describe management considerations in 2 adults with thromboembolic disease and 2 adults with low bone mineral density in the setting of feminizing and masculinizing GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean J Iwamoto
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Endocrinology Service, Medicine Service, Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Micol S Rothman
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Guy T’Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Justine Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology and Center for Sexology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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4
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Quintela-Castro FCDA, Pereira TSS, Alves DB, Chiepe L, Nascimento LS, Chiepe KCMB, Barcelos RM, Costa BM, Enriquez-Martinez OG, Rossoni JV, Bellettini-Santos T. Lipid profile and risk of cardiovascular disease in adult transgender men receiving cross-sex hormone therapy: a systematic review. Nutr Rev 2023; 81:1310-1320. [PMID: 36779324 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT A recent US national survey of the health status of the male transgender population has raised awareness about the little-studied relationship between testosterone hormone therapy in transgender men and cardiovascular outcomes. OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review was to assess the relationship between cross-sex hormone therapy in transgender men and lipid profiles and cardiovascular risk. DATA SOURCES The PubMed, SciELO, SpringerLink, and EBSCOhost databases were searched up to March 2021 for studies assessing the association between cross-sex hormone therapy and the incidence of outcomes related to cardiovascular disease in transgender men over 18 years of age . DATA EXTRACTION Data extracted were sorted into clinical data (systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure), anthropometric data (body mass index, weight, waist circumference, fat mass, and lean mass), and biochemical data (triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [VLDL-C], and the HDL-C to LDL-C ratio). DATA ANALYSIS Study quality was appraised independently by two reviewers using the Cochrane tools for assessment of methodological quality or risk of bias in nonrandomized studies, and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was applied. Of 735 studies identified, 11 were included in the review. Most studies reported no change in cholesterol or triglyceride levels after hormone treatment. A reduction in HDL-C levels was observed in 7 of 11 studies, although this alone cannot be considered a cardiovascular risk factor. Likewise, clinical and anthropometric findings showed no changes predictive of cardiovascular risk. CONCLUSIONS Although these findings suggest that hormone therapy may lead to a decrease in HDL-C levels and an increase in LDL-C levels, they are insufficient to establish a relationship with cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, no significant effects on metabolic and anthropometric values were found. Further studies with higher quality and longer follow-up periods are needed to establish cardiovascular risk. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number CRD 42020212560.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Danúbia Boy Alves
- Graduate Program of Research and Extension (CEPEG), University Center of Espirito Santo, Colatina, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Letícia Chiepe
- Graduate Program of Research and Extension (CEPEG), University Center of Espirito Santo, Colatina, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Laura Sperandio Nascimento
- Graduate Program of Research and Extension (CEPEG), University Center of Espirito Santo, Colatina, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | | | - Rafael Mazioli Barcelos
- Graduate Program of Research and Extension (CEPEG), University Center of Espirito Santo, Colatina, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Bruno Maia Costa
- Department of Health, Multivix College São Mateus, São Mateus, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | | | - Joamyr Victor Rossoni
- Graduate Program of Research and Extension (CEPEG), University Center of Espirito Santo, Colatina, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Tatiani Bellettini-Santos
- Graduate Program of Research and Extension (CEPEG), University Center of Espirito Santo, Colatina, Espirito Santo, Brazil
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5
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Mwamba RN, Ekwonu A, Guimaraes PVB, Raheem OA. The efficacy, safety, and outcomes of testosterone use among transgender men patients: A review of the literature. Neurourol Urodyn 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/nau.25094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rimel N. Mwamba
- The Pritzker School of Medicine The University of Chicago Medical Center Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Adaora Ekwonu
- The Pritzker School of Medicine The University of Chicago Medical Center Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Paulo V. B. Guimaraes
- Department of Surgery, Section of Urology The University of Chicago Medical Center Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Omer A. Raheem
- The Pritzker School of Medicine The University of Chicago Medical Center Chicago Illinois USA
- Department of Surgery, Section of Urology The University of Chicago Medical Center Chicago Illinois USA
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6
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Coleman E, Radix AE, Bouman WP, Brown GR, de Vries ALC, Deutsch MB, Ettner R, Fraser L, Goodman M, Green J, Hancock AB, Johnson TW, Karasic DH, Knudson GA, Leibowitz SF, Meyer-Bahlburg HFL, Monstrey SJ, Motmans J, Nahata L, Nieder TO, Reisner SL, Richards C, Schechter LS, Tangpricha V, Tishelman AC, Van Trotsenburg MAA, Winter S, Ducheny K, Adams NJ, Adrián TM, Allen LR, Azul D, Bagga H, Başar K, Bathory DS, Belinky JJ, Berg DR, Berli JU, Bluebond-Langner RO, Bouman MB, Bowers ML, Brassard PJ, Byrne J, Capitán L, Cargill CJ, Carswell JM, Chang SC, Chelvakumar G, Corneil T, Dalke KB, De Cuypere G, de Vries E, Den Heijer M, Devor AH, Dhejne C, D'Marco A, Edmiston EK, Edwards-Leeper L, Ehrbar R, Ehrensaft D, Eisfeld J, Elaut E, Erickson-Schroth L, Feldman JL, Fisher AD, Garcia MM, Gijs L, Green SE, Hall BP, Hardy TLD, Irwig MS, Jacobs LA, Janssen AC, Johnson K, Klink DT, Kreukels BPC, Kuper LE, Kvach EJ, Malouf MA, Massey R, Mazur T, McLachlan C, Morrison SD, Mosser SW, Neira PM, Nygren U, Oates JM, Obedin-Maliver J, Pagkalos G, Patton J, Phanuphak N, Rachlin K, Reed T, Rider GN, Ristori J, Robbins-Cherry S, Roberts SA, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Rosenthal SM, Sabir K, Safer JD, Scheim AI, Seal LJ, Sehoole TJ, Spencer K, St Amand C, Steensma TD, Strang JF, Taylor GB, Tilleman K, T'Sjoen GG, Vala LN, Van Mello NM, Veale JF, Vencill JA, Vincent B, Wesp LM, West MA, Arcelus J. Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 23:S1-S259. [PMID: 36238954 PMCID: PMC9553112 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2100644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 561] [Impact Index Per Article: 280.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Transgender healthcare is a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field. In the last decade, there has been an unprecedented increase in the number and visibility of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people seeking support and gender-affirming medical treatment in parallel with a significant rise in the scientific literature in this area. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) is an international, multidisciplinary, professional association whose mission is to promote evidence-based care, education, research, public policy, and respect in transgender health. One of the main functions of WPATH is to promote the highest standards of health care for TGD people through the Standards of Care (SOC). The SOC was initially developed in 1979 and the last version (SOC-7) was published in 2012. In view of the increasing scientific evidence, WPATH commissioned a new version of the Standards of Care, the SOC-8. Aim: The overall goal of SOC-8 is to provide health care professionals (HCPs) with clinical guidance to assist TGD people in accessing safe and effective pathways to achieving lasting personal comfort with their gendered selves with the aim of optimizing their overall physical health, psychological well-being, and self-fulfillment. Methods: The SOC-8 is based on the best available science and expert professional consensus in transgender health. International professionals and stakeholders were selected to serve on the SOC-8 committee. Recommendation statements were developed based on data derived from independent systematic literature reviews, where available, background reviews and expert opinions. Grading of recommendations was based on the available evidence supporting interventions, a discussion of risks and harms, as well as the feasibility and acceptability within different contexts and country settings. Results: A total of 18 chapters were developed as part of the SOC-8. They contain recommendations for health care professionals who provide care and treatment for TGD people. Each of the recommendations is followed by explanatory text with relevant references. General areas related to transgender health are covered in the chapters Terminology, Global Applicability, Population Estimates, and Education. The chapters developed for the diverse population of TGD people include Assessment of Adults, Adolescents, Children, Nonbinary, Eunuchs, and Intersex Individuals, and people living in Institutional Environments. Finally, the chapters related to gender-affirming treatment are Hormone Therapy, Surgery and Postoperative Care, Voice and Communication, Primary Care, Reproductive Health, Sexual Health, and Mental Health. Conclusions: The SOC-8 guidelines are intended to be flexible to meet the diverse health care needs of TGD people globally. While adaptable, they offer standards for promoting optimal health care and guidance for the treatment of people experiencing gender incongruence. As in all previous versions of the SOC, the criteria set forth in this document for gender-affirming medical interventions are clinical guidelines; individual health care professionals and programs may modify these in consultation with the TGD person.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Coleman
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - A E Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - W P Bouman
- Nottingham Centre for Transgender Health, Nottingham, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - G R Brown
- James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
- James H. Quillen VAMC, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - A L C de Vries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M B Deutsch
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Gender Affirming Health Program, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - R Ettner
- New Health Foundation Worldwide, Evanston, IL, USA
- Weiss Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - L Fraser
- Independent Practice, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M Goodman
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - J Green
- Independent Scholar, Vancouver, WA, USA
| | - A B Hancock
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - T W Johnson
- Department of Anthropology, California State University, Chico, CA, USA
| | - D H Karasic
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Independent Practice at dankarasic.com
| | - G A Knudson
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, Canada
| | - S F Leibowitz
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - H F L Meyer-Bahlburg
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - J Motmans
- Transgender Infopunt, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Centre for Research on Culture and Gender, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - L Nahata
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Endocrinology and Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T O Nieder
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Interdisciplinary Transgender Health Care Center Hamburg, Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Hamburg, Germany
| | - S L Reisner
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - C Richards
- Regents University London, UK
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - V Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - A C Tishelman
- Boston College, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - M A A Van Trotsenburg
- Bureau GenderPRO, Vienna, Austria
- University Hospital Lilienfeld-St. Pölten, St. Pölten, Austria
| | - S Winter
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - K Ducheny
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - N J Adams
- University of Toronto, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, Canada
- Transgender Professional Association for Transgender Health (TPATH)
| | - T M Adrián
- Asamblea Nacional de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
- Diverlex Diversidad e Igualdad a Través de la Ley, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - L R Allen
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - D Azul
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia
| | - H Bagga
- Monash Health Gender Clinic, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Başar
- Department of Psychiatry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - D S Bathory
- Independent Practice at Bathory International PLLC, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - J J Belinky
- Durand Hospital, Guemes Clinic and Urological Center, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D R Berg
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J U Berli
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - R O Bluebond-Langner
- NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - M-B Bouman
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M L Bowers
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mills-Peninsula Medical Center, Burlingame, CA, USA
| | - P J Brassard
- GrS Montreal, Complexe CMC, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Université de Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - J Byrne
- University of Waikato/Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, New Zealand/Aotearoa
| | - L Capitán
- The Facialteam Group, Marbella International Hospital, Marbella, Spain
| | | | - J M Carswell
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston's Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S C Chang
- Independent Practice, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - G Chelvakumar
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T Corneil
- School of Population & Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - K B Dalke
- Penn State Health, PA, USA
- Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - G De Cuypere
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - E de Vries
- Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - M Den Heijer
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - A H Devor
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - C Dhejne
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A D'Marco
- UCTRANS-United Caribbean Trans Network, Nassau, The Bahamas
- D M A R C O Organization, Nassau, The Bahamas
| | - E K Edmiston
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - L Edwards-Leeper
- Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA
- Independent Practice, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - R Ehrbar
- Whitman Walker Health, Washington, DC, USA
- Independent Practice, Maryland, USA
| | - D Ehrensaft
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - J Eisfeld
- Transvisie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E Elaut
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Experimental and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - L Erickson-Schroth
- The Jed Foundation, New York, NY, USA
- Hetrick-Martin Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - J L Feldman
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - M M Garcia
- Department of Urology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Departments of Urology and Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - L Gijs
- Institute of Family and Sexuality Studies, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - B P Hall
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Adult Gender Medicine Clinic, Durham, NC, USA
| | - T L D Hardy
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- MacEwan University, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - M S Irwig
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - A C Janssen
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Johnson
- RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - D T Klink
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, ZNA Queen Paola Children's Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - B P C Kreukels
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - L E Kuper
- Department of Psychiatry, Southwestern Medical Center, University of Texas, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - E J Kvach
- Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - M A Malouf
- Malouf Counseling and Consulting, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - R Massey
- WPATH Global Education Institute
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - T Mazur
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- John R. Oishei Children's Hospital, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - C McLachlan
- Professional Association for Transgender Health, South Africa
- Gender DynamiX, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - S D Morrison
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - S W Mosser
- Gender Confirmation Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - P M Neira
- Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins Medicine Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Health Equity, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - U Nygren
- Division of Speech and Language Pathology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Speech and Language Pathology, Medical Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J M Oates
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne Voice Analysis Centre, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - J Obedin-Maliver
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - G Pagkalos
- Independent PracticeThessaloniki, Greece
- Military Community Mental Health Center, 424 General Military Training Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - J Patton
- Talkspace, New York, NY, USA
- CytiPsychological LLC, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - N Phanuphak
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - K Rachlin
- Independent Practice, New York, NY, USA
| | - T Reed
- Gender Identity Research and Education Society, Leatherhead, UK
| | - G N Rider
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - S A Roberts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston's Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S M Rosenthal
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Child and Adolescent Gender Center
| | - K Sabir
- FtM Phoenix Group, Krasnodar Krai, Russia
| | - J D Safer
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - A I Scheim
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Ontario, Canada
| | - L J Seal
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - K Spencer
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - C St Amand
- University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - T D Steensma
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F Strang
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
- George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - G B Taylor
- Atrium Health Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - K Tilleman
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - G G T'Sjoen
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - L N Vala
- Independent Practice, Campbell, CA, USA
| | - N M Van Mello
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F Veale
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato/Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, New Zealand/Aotearoa
| | - J A Vencill
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - B Vincent
- Trans Learning Partnership at https://spectra-london.org.uk/trans-learning-partnership, UK
| | - L M Wesp
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin MilwaukeeMilwaukee, WI, USA
- Health Connections Inc., Glendale, WI, USA
| | - M A West
- North Memorial Health Hospital, Robbinsdale, MN, USA
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J Arcelus
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Dimakopoulou A, Millar OD, Moschonas D, Jayasena CN. The role of androgens in transgender medicine. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 36:101617. [PMID: 35120800 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2022.101617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Androgen therapy is the mainstay of treatment in female to male (FtM) transgender persons to increase testosterone levels, suppress oestrogens and treat gender dysphoria. Testosterone is widely used for male hypogonadism, but is comparatively under-investigated in FtM transgender persons. The aim of our study was to identify treatment and safety outcomes associated with testosterone use in transgender medicine. Androgens in FtM transgender persons are effective to lower voice frequency, increase facial hair-growth, and increase hematocrit and hemoglobin levels to adult male reference ranges. A 1.2-fold-3.7-fold higher rate of myocardial infarction has been reported retrospectively, compared to cisgender women. Blood pressure, glycaemic control and body mass index remained unchanged in FtM transgender persons. Androgens in FtM transgender persons have important cardio-metabolic implications. Randomised control trials, longer follow-up periods and studies involving older persons may further improve the management of FtM transgender persons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ophelia D Millar
- Department of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | | | - Channa N Jayasena
- Department of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, W12 0NN, UK.
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8
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Krupka E, Curtis S, Ferguson T, Whitlock R, Askin N, Millar AC, Dahl M, Fung R, Ahmed SB, Tangri N, Walsh M, Collister D. The Effect of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Measures of Kidney Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2022; 17:1305-1315. [PMID: 35973728 PMCID: PMC9625103 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.01890222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Gender-affirming hormone therapy modifies body composition and lean muscle mass in transgender persons. We sought to characterize the change in serum creatinine, other kidney function biomarkers, and GFR in transgender persons initiating masculinizing and feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to September 16, 2020 for randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case series that evaluated the change in serum creatinine, other kidney function biomarkers, and GFR before and after the initiation of gender-affirming hormone therapy in adult transgender persons. Two reviewers independently screened and abstracted data, and disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. A random effects meta-analysis was performed to determine the change in outcomes over follow-up of 3, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS Of the 4758 eligible studies, 26 met the inclusion criteria, including nine studies that recruited 488 transgender men and 593 women in which data were meta-analyzed. There was heterogeneity in study design, populations, gender-affirming hormone therapy routes, and dosing. At 12 months after initiating gender-affirming hormone therapy, serum creatinine increased by 0.15 mg/dl (95% confidence interval, 0.00 to 0.29) in 370 transgender men and decreased by -0.05 mg/dl (95% confidence interval, -0.16 to 0.05) in 361 transgender women. No study reported the effect of gender-affirming hormone therapy on albuminuria, proteinuria, cystatin C, or measured GFR. CONCLUSIONS Gender-affirming hormone therapy increases serum creatinine in transgender men and does not affect serum creatinine in transgender women. The effect on gender-affirming hormone therapy on other kidney function biomarkers and measured GFR is unknown. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NAME AND REGISTRATION NUMBER Change in Kidney Function Biomarkers in Transgender Persons on Gender Affirmation Hormone Therapy-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, CRD42020214248.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Krupka
- Chronic Disease Innovation Centre, Seven Oaks General Hospital, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sarah Curtis
- Chronic Disease Innovation Centre, Seven Oaks General Hospital, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Thomas Ferguson
- Chronic Disease Innovation Centre, Seven Oaks General Hospital, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Reid Whitlock
- Chronic Disease Innovation Centre, Seven Oaks General Hospital, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Nicole Askin
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Adam C. Millar
- Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marshall Dahl
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Raymond Fung
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Michael Garron Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sofia B. Ahmed
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Navdeep Tangri
- Chronic Disease Innovation Centre, Seven Oaks General Hospital, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Max Rady Department of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Michael Walsh
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton Health Sciences/McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Collister
- Chronic Disease Innovation Centre, Seven Oaks General Hospital, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Max Rady Department of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton Health Sciences/McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Section of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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9
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Madsen MC, den Heijer M, Pees C, Biermasz NR, Bakker LEH. Testosterone in men with hypogonadism and transgender males: a systematic review comparing three different preparations. Endocr Connect 2022; 11:EC-22-0112. [PMID: 35904217 PMCID: PMC9346330 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Testosterone therapy is the cornerstone in the care of men with hypogonadism and transgender males. Gel and intramuscular injections are most frequently used and are registered and included in the international guidelines. The specific preparation should be selected according to the patient's preference, cost, availability, and formulation-specific properties. As the majority of men with hypogonadism and transgender males require lifelong treatment with testosterone, it is important to utilize a regimen that is effective, safe, inexpensive, and convenient to use with optimal mimicking of the physiological situation. This systematic review reviews current literature on differences between the three most used testosterone preparations in adult men with hypogonadism and transgender males. Although it appeared hardly any comparative studies have been carried out, there are indications of differences between the preparations, for example, on the stability of testosterone levels, hematocrit, bone mineral density, and patient satisfaction. However, there are no studies on the effects of testosterone replacement on endpoints such as cardiovascular disease in relation to hematocrit or osteoporotic fractures in relation to bone mineral density. The effect of testosterone therapy on health-related quality of life is strongly underexposed in the reviewed studies, while this is a highly relevant outcome measure from a patient perspective. In conclusion, current recommendations on testosterone treatment appear to be based on data primarily from non-randomized clinical studies and observational studies. The availability of reliable comparative data between the different preparations will assist in the process of individual decision-making to choose the most suitable formula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milou Cecilia Madsen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Correspondence should be addressed to M C Madsen:
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Claudia Pees
- Walaeus Library, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Nienke R Biermasz
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Leontine E H Bakker
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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10
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Verroken C, Collet S, Lapauw B, T'Sjoen G. Osteoporosis and Bone Health in Transgender Individuals. Calcif Tissue Int 2022; 110:615-623. [PMID: 35366693 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-022-00972-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses the changes in bone mass, structure, and metabolism that occur upon gender-affirming hormonal treatment (GAHT) in transgender adults and adolescents, as well as their clinical relevance. In general, available evidence shows that GAHT in transgender adults is not associated with major bone loss. In transgender adolescents, pubertal suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist monotherapy impairs bone development, but at least partial recovery is observed after GAHT initiation. Nevertheless, a research gap remains concerning fracture risk and determinants of bone strength other than bone mineral density. Attention for bone health is warranted especially in adult as well as adolescent trans women, given the relatively high prevalence of low bone mass both before the start of treatment and after long-term GAHT in this population. Strategies to optimize bone health include monitoring of treatment compliance and ensuring adequate exposure to administered sex steroids, in addition to general bone health measures such as adequate physical activity, adequate vitamin D and calcium intake, and a healthy lifestyle. When risk factors for osteoporosis exist the threshold to perform DXA should be low, and treatment decisions should be based on the same guidelines as the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Verroken
- Unit for Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Diseases, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Sarah Collet
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bruno Lapauw
- Unit for Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Diseases, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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11
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Bretherton I, Ghasem-Zadeh A, Leemaqz SY, Seeman E, Wang X, McFarlane T, Spanos C, Grossmann M, Zajac JD, Cheung AS. Bone Microarchitecture in Transgender Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Bone Miner Res 2022; 37:643-648. [PMID: 34981566 PMCID: PMC9305455 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Gender-affirming hormone therapy aligns physical characteristics with an individual's gender identity, but sex hormones regulate bone remodeling and influence bone morphology. We hypothesized that trans men receiving testosterone have compromised bone morphology because of suppression of ovarian estradiol production, whereas trans women receiving estradiol, with or without anti-androgen therapy, have preserved bone microarchitecture. We compared distal radial and tibial microarchitecture using high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography images in a cross-sectional study of 41 trans men with 71 cis female controls, and 40 trans women with 51 cis male controls. Between-group differences were expressed as standardized deviations (SD) from the mean in age-matched cisgender controls with 98% confidence intervals adjusted for cross-sectional area (CSA) and multiple comparisons. Relative to cis women, trans men had 0.63 SD higher total volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD; both p = 0.01). Cortical vBMD and cortical porosity did not differ, but cortices were 1.11 SD thicker (p < 0.01). Trabeculae were 0.38 SD thicker (p = 0.05) but otherwise no different. Compared with cis men, trans women had 0.68 SD lower total vBMD (p = 0.01). Cortical vBMD was 0.70 SD lower (p < 0.01), cortical thickness was 0.51 SD lower (p = 0.04), and cortical porosity was 0.70 SD higher (p < 0.01). Trabecular bone volume (BV/TV) was 0.77 SD lower (p < 0.01), with 0.57 SD fewer (p < 0.01) and 0.30 SD thicker trabeculae (p = 0.02). There was 0.56 SD greater trabecular separation (p = 0.01). Findings at the distal radius were similar. Contrary to each hypothesis, bone microarchitecture was not compromised in trans men, perhaps because aromatization of administered testosterone prevented bone loss. Trans women had deteriorated bone microarchitecture either because of deficits in microstructure before treatment or because the estradiol dosage was insufficient to offset reduced aromatizable testosterone. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Bretherton
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Ali Ghasem-Zadeh
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Shalem Y Leemaqz
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ego Seeman
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Thomas McFarlane
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Cassandra Spanos
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D Zajac
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Ada S Cheung
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia.,Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Australia
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12
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Fisher AD, Senofonte G, Cocchetti C, Guercio G, Lingiardi V, Meriggiola MC, Mosconi M, Motta G, Ristori J, Speranza AM, Pierdominici M, Maggi M, Corona G, Lombardo F. SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE position statement of gender affirming hormonal treatment in transgender and non-binary people. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:657-673. [PMID: 34677807 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01694-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender Incongruence (GI) is a marked and persistent incongruence between an individual's experienced and the assigned gender at birth. In the recent years, there has been a considerable evolution and change in attitude as regards to gender nonconforming people. METHODS According to the Italian Society of Gender, Identity and Health (SIGIS), the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE) rules, a team of experts on the topic has been nominated by a SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE Guideline Board on the basis of their recognized clinical and research expertise in the field, and coordinated by a senior author, has prepared this Position statement. Later on, the present manuscript has been submitted to the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation for the normal process of international peer reviewing after a first internal revision process made by the SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE Guideline Board. RESULTS In the present document by the SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE group, we propose experts opinions concerning the psychological functioning, gender affirming hormonal treatment, safety concerns, emerging issues in transgender healthcare (sexual health, fertility issues, elderly trans people), and an Italian law overview aimed to improve gender non-conforming people care. CONCLUSION In this Position statement, we propose experts opinions concerning the psychological functioning of transgender people, the gender-affirming hormonal treatment (full/partial masculinization in assigned female at birth trans people, full/partial feminization and de-masculinization in assigned male at birth trans people), the emerging issues in transgender health care aimed to improve patient care. We have also included an overview of Italian law about gender affirming surgery and registry rectification.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Senofonte
- Laboratory of Seminology, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - C Cocchetti
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Guercio
- Studio Legale Avv. Giovanni Guercio, Via Antonio Mordini, 14, 00195, Rome, Italy
| | - V Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - M C Meriggiola
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Mosconi
- Gender Identity Development Service, Hospital S. Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - G Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - A M Speranza
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - M Pierdominici
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda-Usl, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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13
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Giacomelli G, Meriggiola MC. Bone health in transgender people: a narrative review. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2022; 13:20420188221099346. [PMID: 35651988 PMCID: PMC9150228 DOI: 10.1177/20420188221099346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone health in transmen and transwomen is an important issue that needs to be evaluated by clinicians. Prior to gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT), transwomen have lower bone mineral density (BMD) and a higher prevalence of osteopenia than cismen probably related to external factors, such as hypovitaminosis D and less physical activities. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues in transgender youth may cause bone loss; however, the addition of GAHT restores or at least improves BMD in both transboys and transgirls. The maintenance or increase in BMD shown in short-term longitudinal studies emphasizes that GAHT does not have a negative effect on BMD in adult transwomen and transmen. Gonadectomy is not a risk factor if GAHT is taken correctly. The prevalence of fractures in the transgender population seems to be the same as in the general population but more studies are required on this aspect. To evaluate the risk of osteoporosis, it is mandatory to define the most appropriate reference group not only taking into consideration the medical aspects but also in respect of the selected gender identity of each person.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Giacomelli
- Division of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna. S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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14
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Cai T, Al-Jubairi NN, Santos HO, de Souza IGO, Chen Y. Does letrozole treatment have favorable effects on the lipid profile? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Steroids 2021; 172:108875. [PMID: 34116112 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2021.108875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
As an aromatase inhibitor, letrozole reduces estrogen levels, affecting lipid indices because of the positive role of estrogens in modulating lipoproteins and lipids. Thus, our aim was to meta-analyze data regarding letrozole administration and its effects on the traditional lipid profile. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were performed based on the PRISMA guidelines. Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed/Medline, and EMBASE databases were searched until February 11, 2021. From 341 potentially relevant publications, 8 RCTs were selected. All studies used 2.5 mg/d of letrozole. Total cholesterol changed significantly by -6.28 mg/dL (95% CI: -8.73, -3.84, P < 0.001) and HDL-C by -4.40 mg/dL (95% CI: -5.30 to -3.50, p < 0.001) in letrozole group when compared to the control group. Taking into account this comparison between groups, in contrast, LDL-C (WMD: -2.50 mg/dL, 95% CI: -9.94, 4.93, p = 0.510) and triglycerides (WMD: -0.89 mg/dL, 95% CI: -6.87 to 5.07, p = 0.768) did not alter. In conclusion, letrozole administration decreased the concentrations of HDL-C and tocal cholesterol, but not of triglycerides and LDL-C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, Huai'an Medical District, Eastern Theater General Hospital, Huai'an City, Jiangsu Province 223001, China
| | | | - Heitor O Santos
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Uberlandia (UFU), Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ivan G O de Souza
- Universidade Salvador (UNIFACS), Salvador, Bahia, Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Brazil
| | - Youdong Chen
- Department of Medical Service, No. 901 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Hefei City, Anhui Province 230001, China.
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15
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Abstract
The attention to transgender medicine has changed over the last decade and the interest is most likely going to increase in the future due to the fact that gender-affirming treatments are now being requested by an increasing number of transgender people. Even if gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is based on a multidisciplinary approach, this review is going to focus on the procedures adopted by the endocrinologist in an out-clinic setting once an adult patient is referred by another specialist for ‘gender affirming’ therapy. Before commencing this latter treatment, several background information on unmet needs regarding medical and surgical outcomes should be investigated. We summarized our endocrinological clinical and therapeutic approaches to adult transgender individuals before and during GAHT based on a non-systematic review. Moreover, the possible relationships between GAHT, gender-related pharmacology, and COVID-19 are also reported.
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16
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Bretherton I, Spanos C, Leemaqz SY, Premaratne G, Grossmann M, Zajac JD, Cheung AS. Insulin resistance in transgender individuals correlates with android fat mass. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2021; 12:2042018820985681. [PMID: 33552464 PMCID: PMC7841663 DOI: 10.1177/2042018820985681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender individuals receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) are at increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. This may be related to effects on body composition and insulin resistance. AIMS To examine relationships between body fat distribution and insulin resistance in transgender individuals on established GAHT. METHODS Comparisons of body composition (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) and insulin resistance [Homeostasis Model of Insulin Resistance (HOMA2-IR)] were made between transgender individuals (43 trans men and 41 trans women) on established GAHT (>12 months) and age-matched cisgender controls (30 males and 48 females). Multiple linear regressions were used to examine the relationship between HOMA2-IR and fat mass with gender, adjusting for age and total duration of GAHT and Pearson correlation coefficients are reported. RESULTS Compared with control cisgender women, trans men had mean difference of +7.8 kg (4.0, 11.5), p < 0.001 in lean mass and higher android:gynoid fat ratio [0.2 (0.1, 0.3), p < 0.001], but no difference in overall fat mass or insulin resistance. Compared with control cisgender men, trans women had median difference in lean mass of -6.9 kg (-10.6, -3.1), p < 0.001, fat mass of +9.8 kg (3.9, 14.5), p = 0.001, lower android:gynoid fat ratio -0.1 (-0.2,-0.0), p < 0.05), and higher insulin resistance 1.6 (1.3-1.9), p < 0.001). Higher HOMA2-IR correlated with higher android (r 2 = 0.712, p < 0.001) and gynoid (r 2 = 0.572, p < 0.001) fat mass in both trans men and trans women. CONCLUSION Android fat more strongly correlates with insulin resistance than gynoid fat in transgender individuals. Higher fat mass and insulin resistance in trans women may predispose to increased cardiovascular risk. Despite adverse fat distribution, insulin resistance was not higher in trans men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Bretherton
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cassandra Spanos
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shalem Y. Leemaqz
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Gehan Premaratne
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D. Zajac
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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17
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Rozga M, Linsenmeyer W, Cantwell Wood J, Darst V, Gradwell E. Hormone therapy, health outcomes and the role of nutrition in transgender individuals: A scoping review. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2020; 40:42-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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18
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Results of a Phase I-II Study on Laser Therapy for Vaginal Side Effects after Radiotherapy for Cancer of Uterine Cervix or Endometrium. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061639. [PMID: 32575821 PMCID: PMC7352893 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Women who have previously received radiotherapy (RT) for gynecologic cancer often suffer from vaginal fibrosis and stenosis. The success of “non-ablative” laser therapy for postmenopausal vaginal atrophy has led to the idea of testing the laser in patients submitted to RT. In this prospective observational study, we selected patients who underwent pelvic RT followed by vaginal laser treatment. We scheduled three treatment sessions (at T0–T1–T2) and three controls (at T1–T2–T3) one month apart. The follow-up (at T4) was carried out six months after the last treatment. Vaginal Health Index (VHI) and vaginal length were evaluated. Sexual function was assessed through Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Overall, 43 patients with severe vaginal shortening, atrophy and stenosis was enrolled and treated with intravaginal non-ablative CO2 laser. We observed a progressive increase in vaginal length of 9% (p = 0.03) at T2 and 28% (p < 0.0001) at T3; effects were maintained at T4 (p < 0.0001). After the first application VHI showed a significant improvement of 57% at T3 (p < 0.0001). The results were maintained at T4 (p < 0.0001). No changes were found in FSFI. All procedures were well tolerated. In conclusion, laser therapy improved vaginal length and VHI in women undergoing pelvic RT; prospective studies are needed.
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19
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Conklin SE, Knezevic CE. Advancements in the gold standard: Measuring steroid sex hormones by mass spectrometry. Clin Biochem 2020; 82:21-32. [PMID: 32209333 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2020.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogens, play an essential role in regulating physiological and reproductive development throughout the lifetime of the individual. Although variation in levels of these hormones are observed throughout the distinct stages in life, significant deviations from reference ranges can result in detrimental effects to the individual. Alterations, by either an increase or decrease, in hormone levels are associated with physiological changes, decreased reproductive capabilities, and increased risk for diseases. Hormone therapies (HTs) and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are commonly used to address these factors. In addition to these treatments, gender-affirming therapies, an iteration of HTs, are also a prominent treatment for transgender individuals. Considering that the effectiveness of these treatments relies on achieving therapeutic hormone levels, monitoring of hormones has served as a way of assessing therapeutic efficay. The need for reliable methods to achieve this task has led to great advancements in methods for evaluating hormone concentrations in biological matrices. Although immunoassays are the more widely used method, mass spectrometry (MS)-based methods have proven to be more sensitive, specific, and reliable. Advances in MS technology and its applications for therapeutic hormone monitoring have been significant, hence integration of these methods in the clinical setting is desired. Here, we provide a general overview of HT and ART, and the immunoassay and MS-based methods currently utilized for monitoring sex hormones. Additionally, we highlight recent advances in MS-based methods and discuss future applications and considerations for MS-based hormone assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Conklin
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St. Zayed B1020, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Claire E Knezevic
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St. Zayed B1020, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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20
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Spanos C, Bretherton I, Zajac JD, Cheung AS. Effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy on insulin resistance and body composition in transgender individuals: A systematic review. World J Diabetes 2020; 11:66-77. [PMID: 32180895 PMCID: PMC7061235 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v11.i3.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender individuals receiving masculinising or feminising gender-affirming hormone therapy with testosterone or estradiol respectively, are at increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, including myocardial infarction and stroke. This may be related to the effects of testosterone or estradiol therapy on body composition, fat distribution, and insulin resistance but the effect of gender-affirming hormone therapy on these cardiovascular risk factors has not been extensively examined.
AIM To evaluate the impact of gender-affirming hormone therapy on body composition and insulin resistance in transgender individuals, to guide clinicians in minimising cardiovascular risk.
METHODS We performed a review of the literature based on PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO databases were searched for studies examining body composition, insulin resistance or body fat distribution in transgender individuals aged over 18 years on established gender-affirming hormone therapy. Studies were selected for full-text analysis if they investigated transgender individuals on any type of gender-affirming hormone therapy and reported effects on lean mass, fat mass or insulin resistance.
RESULTS The search strategy identified 221 studies. After exclusion of studies that did not meet inclusion criteria, 26 were included (2 cross-sectional, 21 prospective-uncontrolled and 3 prospective-controlled). Evidence in transgender men suggests that testosterone therapy increases lean mass, decreases fat mass and has no impact on insulin resistance. Evidence in transgender women suggests that feminising hormone therapy (estradiol, with or without anti-androgen agents) decreases lean mass, increases fat mass, and may worsen insulin resistance. Changes to body composition were consistent across almost all studies: Transgender men on testosterone gained lean mass and lost fat mass, and transgender women on oestrogen experienced the reverse. No study directly contradicted these trends, though several small studies of short duration reported no changes. Results for insulin resistance are less consistent and uncertain. There is a paucity of prospective controlled research, and existing prospective evidence is limited by small sample sizes, short follow up periods, and young cohorts of participants.
CONCLUSION Further research is required to further characterise the impact of gender-affirming hormone therapy on body composition and insulin resistance in the medium-long term. Until further evidence is available, clinicians should aim to minimise risk by monitoring cardiovascular risk markers regularly in their patients and encouraging healthy lifestyle modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Spanos
- Trans Medical Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Ingrid Bretherton
- Trans Medical Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D Zajac
- Trans Medical Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Ada S Cheung
- Trans Medical Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Victoria 3084, Australia
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21
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Wiepjes CM, den Heijer M, TʼSjoen GG. Bone health in adult trans persons: an update of the literature. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2019; 26:296-300. [PMID: 31573999 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hormonal treatment in trans persons can affect bone health. In this review, recent studies published on this topic in adults are discussed. RECENT FINDINGS Before starting hormonal treatment, trans women were found to have lower bone mineral density than cis men, which seems to be related to lower vitamin D concentrations and lower lean body mass, whereas this was not found in trans men. Short-term and long-term studies show that hormonal treatment does not have detrimental effects on bone mineral density in trans women and trans men. Low estradiol concentrations were associated with a decrease in bone mineral density in trans women. SUMMARY Based on the reassuring findings in these studies, regularly assessing bone mineral density during hormonal treatment does not seem necessary. This confirms the Endocrine Society Guideline stating that bone mineral density should be measured only when risk factors for osteoporosis exist, especially in people who stop hormonal treatment after gonadectomy. The relationship with estradiol concentrations indicate that hormone supplementation should be adequate and therapy compliance should be stimulated. As vitamin D deficiency frequently occurs, vitamin D supplementation should be considered. Future research should focus on fracture risk and long-term changes in bone geometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal M Wiepjes
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Endocrinology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Guy G TʼSjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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22
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Vlot MC, Wiepjes CM, de Jongh RT, T'Sjoen G, Heijboer AC, den Heijer M. Gender-Affirming Hormone Treatment Decreases Bone Turnover in Transwomen and Older Transmen. J Bone Miner Res 2019; 34:1862-1872. [PMID: 31099910 PMCID: PMC6852079 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroids play a key role in bone turnover and preserving BMD; hence, gender-affirming hormone treatment (HT) in transgender people affects bone metabolism. Most studies have looked into the effect of HT on changes in BMD; however, they do not provide insights into changes in bone metabolism caused by HT. This study investigated changes in bone turnover markers (BTMs) and sclerostin, as well as their correlations with change in BMD in transwomen and transmen during the first year of HT. Transwomen received estradiol and antiandrogens; transmen received testosterone. Sclerostin; P1NP; alkaline phosphatase (ALP); CTx; and BMD of the total hip, the femoral neck, and the lumbar spine were evaluated at baseline and after 1 year of HT. There were 121 transwomen (median age 30 years, interquartile range [IQR] 24 to 41 years) and 132 transmen (median age 24 years, IQR 21 to 33 years) included in the study. In transwomen, ALP decreased in 19% (95% CI, -21 to-16), CTx in 11% (95% CI, -18 to-4), and sclerostin in 8% (95%CI, -13 to-4) of study participants after 1 year of HT. In contrast, in transmen P1NP, ALP, and sclerostin increased in 33% (95% CI, 24 to 42), 16% (95% CI, 12 to 20), and 15% (95% CI, 10 to 20) of study participants, respectively, after 1 year of HT. No age differences were seen in transwomen, whereas in transmen aged ≥50 years a decrease in all BTMs was found in contrast with the other age groups. These transmen had low estrogen concentration at the start of HT based on their postmenopausal state before the start of HT; their estradiol concentrations increased during testosterone treatment. Changes in BTMs and BMD were weakly correlated (correlation coefficient all <0.30). To conclude, 1 year of HT resulted in decreased bone turnover in transwomen and older transmen, whereas it increased in younger transmen. The decrease in bone resorption in older transmen shows the importance of estrogen as a key regulator of bone turnover. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariska C Vlot
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, A, msterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chantal M Wiepjes
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, A, msterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Renate T de Jongh
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, A, msterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annemieke C Heijboer
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, A, msterdam, The Netherlands
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23
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Rosen HN, Hamnvik OPR, Jaisamrarn U, Malabanan AO, Safer JD, Tangpricha V, Wattanachanya L, Yeap SS. Bone Densitometry in Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC) Individuals: 2019 ISCD Official Position. J Clin Densitom 2019; 22:544-553. [PMID: 31327665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocd.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The indications for initial and follow-up bone mineral density (BMD) in transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals are poorly defined, and the choice of which gender database to use to calculate Z-scores is unclear. Herein, the findings of the Task Force are presented after a detailed review of the literature. As long as a TGNC individual is on standard gender-affirming hormone treatment, BMD should remain stable to increasing, so there is no indication to monitor for bone loss or osteoporosis strictly on the basis of TGNC status. TGNC individuals who experience substantial periods of hypogonadism (>1 yr) might experience bone loss or failure of bone accrual during that time, and should be considered for baseline measurement of BMD. To the extent that this hypogonadism continues over time, follow-up measurements can be appropriate. TGNC individuals who have adequate levels of endogenous or exogenous sex steroids can, of course, suffer from other illnesses that can cause osteoporosis and bone loss, such as hyperparathyroidism and steroid use; they should have measurement of BMD as would be done in the cisgender population. There are no data that TGNC individuals have a fracture risk different from that of cisgender individuals, nor any data to suggest that BMD predicts their fracture risk less well than in the cisgender population. The Z-score in transgender individuals should be calculated using the reference data (mean and standard deviation) of the gender conforming with the individual's gender identity. In gender nonconforming individuals, the reference data for the sex recorded at birth should be used. If the referring provider or the individual requests, a set of "male" and "female" Z-scores can be provided, calculating the Z-score against male and female reference data, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold N Rosen
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ole-Petter R Hamnvik
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Unnop Jaisamrarn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Alan O Malabanan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua D Safer
- Mount Sinai Health System, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Lalita Wattanachanya
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Excellence Center for Diabetes, Hormone, and Metabolism, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Swan S Yeap
- Department of Medicine, Subang Jaya Medical Centre, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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24
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Abstract
Gonadal sex steroids play a pivotal role in bone health. Medical and surgical therapies for gender dysphoria in both adolescents and adults can lead to skeletal changes. This review evaluates the literature on transgender bone health, and how the data can be translated into clinical practice.
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25
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Abstract
There are an estimated 1.4 million transgender adults in the United States, and lack of providers knowledgeable in transgender care is a barrier to health care. Obstetricians and Gynecologists can help increase access in part by becoming competent in gender-affirming hormone therapy. For transgender men, testosterone protocols can be extrapolated from those used for hypogonadal cisgender men. Unfortunately, there are not any high-quality, long-term prospective studies on the effectiveness and safety of different testosterone regimens specifically in transgender men, but the available data suggest that gender-affirming testosterone therapy is safe and effective with proper screening and monitoring.
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26
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Fighera TM, Ziegelmann PK, Rasia da Silva T, Spritzer PM. Bone Mass Effects of Cross-Sex Hormone Therapy in Transgender People: Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:943-964. [PMID: 31020058 PMCID: PMC6469959 DOI: 10.1210/js.2018-00413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Context The impact of long-term cross-sex hormone therapy (CSHT) in transgender men and women is still uncertain. Objective To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis and update the evidence regarding the effects of CSHT on bone mineral density (BMD) in transgender men and women. Data Sources Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Embase were searched for studies published until August 2018. Study Selection Of 10,849 studies, 19 were selected for systematic review. All included patients were aged >16 years and received CSHT with BMD assessment by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Data Extraction Data on BMD, CSHT, and clinical factors affecting bone mass were collected. A National Institutes of Health scale was used to assess the quality of studies. Data Synthesis Nineteen studies were meta-analyzed (487 trans men and 812 trans women). In trans men, mean BMD difference compared with natal women was not significant in any site in either cross-sectional or before-after studies. In trans women, mean BMD difference was not significant compared with natal men at the femoral neck, total femur, and lumbar spine in cross-sectional studies; before-after studies reported a slight but significant increase in lumbar spine BMD after 12 and ≥24 months of treatment. Conclusions Long-term CSHT had a neutral effect on BMD in transgender men. In transgender women, only lumbar spine BMD seemed to be affected after CSHT. This evidence is of low to moderate quality as a result of the observational design of studies, small sample sizes, and variations in hormone therapy protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayane Muniz Fighera
- Gender Identity Program, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Gynecological Endocrinology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Klarmann Ziegelmann
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology and Department of Statistics, Institute of Mathematics, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Thaís Rasia da Silva
- Gynecological Endocrinology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Poli Mara Spritzer
- Gender Identity Program, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Gynecological Endocrinology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Physiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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27
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T'Sjoen G, Arcelus J, Gooren L, Klink DT, Tangpricha V. Endocrinology of Transgender Medicine. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:97-117. [PMID: 30307546 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Gender-affirming treatment of transgender people requires a multidisciplinary approach in which endocrinologists play a crucial role. The aim of this paper is to review recent data on hormonal treatment of this population and its effect on physical, psychological, and mental health. The Endocrine Society guidelines for transgender women include estrogens in combination with androgen-lowering medications. Feminizing treatment with estrogens and antiandrogens has desired physical changes, such as enhanced breast growth, reduction of facial and body hair growth, and fat redistribution in a female pattern. Possible side effects should be discussed with patients, particularly those at risk for venous thromboembolism. The Endocrine Society guidelines for transgender men include testosterone therapy for virilization with deepening of the voice, cessation of menses, and increases of muscle mass and facial and body hair. Owing to the lack of evidence, treatment of gender nonbinary people should be individualized. Young people may receive pubertal suspension, consisting of GnRH analogs, later followed by sex steroids. Options for fertility preservation should be discussed before any hormonal intervention. Morbidity and cardiovascular risk with cross-sex hormones is unchanged among transgender men and unclear among transgender women. Sex steroid-related malignancies can occur but are rare. Mental health problems such as depression and anxiety have been found to reduce considerably following hormonal treatment. Future studies should aim to explore the long-term outcome of hormonal treatment in transgender people and provide evidence as to the effect of gender-affirming treatment in the nonbinary population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jon Arcelus
- Institute of Mental Health, Jubilee Campus, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Nottingham Centre for Transgender Health, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Louis Gooren
- University Hospital, Vrije Universiteit of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Vin Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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28
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Gava G, Mancini I, Cerpolini S, Baldassarre M, Seracchioli R, Meriggiola MC. Testosterone undecanoate and testosterone enanthate injections are both effective and safe in transmen over 5 years of administration. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2018; 89:878-886. [PMID: 30025172 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To retrospectively evaluate and compare safety and efficacy of short and long-acting testosterone (T) parenteral formulations over 5 years in transmen. DESIGN AND METHODS Fifty transmen between 21 and 42 years of age were enrolled. Twenty-five received T undecanoate 1000 mg IM (weeks 0 and 6 then every 12-16 weeks), and 25 received T enanthate 250 mg IM (every 3-4 weeks). Hormonal and biochemical parameters, anthropometric characteristics and blood pressure were assessed at baseline and then every 12 months. Body composition was evaluated at baseline and then after 1, 3 and 5 years of T treatment. Global satisfaction was assessed at baseline and after 1 and 5 years. RESULTS Both T formulations led to amenorrhoea in all subjects within 1 year of T administration. Both T treatments led to a similar increase in haemoglobin and haematocrit which always remained within the physiological range. T administration was associated with an increase in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides and a slight reduction in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Coagulative and glucidic profiles and blood pressure did not change significantly in either group. Body weight and BMI showed a slight but not significant increase in both groups, while lean mass rose significantly in both groups. Global satisfaction was increased at years 1 and 5 in both groups. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary results from this pilot study suggest that administration of either TU or TE for 5 years in young transmen is both effective and safe. Our study presents the longest follow-up published so far reporting no adverse events and these data are consistent with previous reports with a shorter follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Gava
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Mancini
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Cerpolini
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Baldassarre
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Renato Seracchioli
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria C Meriggiola
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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29
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Abstract
Venous thromboembolism can be precipitated by both genetic and acquired factors, but the role of testosterone therapy is less clear. Here, we present a 17-year-old transgender adolescent, transitioning from female to male, receiving both estrogen and testosterone therapy, who developed a pulmonary embolism without an underlying genetic thrombophilic condition. As transgender medical care evolves, the use of testosterone as cross-sex hormone therapy in adolescents is likely to increase. Our review suggests that care must be taken when initiating treatment with testosterone, and modification of other thrombophilic risks should be explored before starting therapy in this population.
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Hembree WC, Cohen-Kettenis PT, Gooren L, Hannema SE, Meyer WJ, Murad MH, Rosenthal SM, Safer JD, Tangpricha V, T'Sjoen GG. Endocrine Treatment of Gender-Dysphoric/Gender-Incongruent Persons: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:3869-3903. [PMID: 28945902 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-01658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1159] [Impact Index Per Article: 165.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To update the "Endocrine Treatment of Transsexual Persons: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline," published by the Endocrine Society in 2009. PARTICIPANTS The participants include an Endocrine Society-appointed task force of nine experts, a methodologist, and a medical writer. EVIDENCE This evidence-based guideline was developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach to describe the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence. The task force commissioned two systematic reviews and used the best available evidence from other published systematic reviews and individual studies. CONSENSUS PROCESS Group meetings, conference calls, and e-mail communications enabled consensus. Endocrine Society committees, members and cosponsoring organizations reviewed and commented on preliminary drafts of the guidelines. CONCLUSION Gender affirmation is multidisciplinary treatment in which endocrinologists play an important role. Gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent persons seek and/or are referred to endocrinologists to develop the physical characteristics of the affirmed gender. They require a safe and effective hormone regimen that will (1) suppress endogenous sex hormone secretion determined by the person's genetic/gonadal sex and (2) maintain sex hormone levels within the normal range for the person's affirmed gender. Hormone treatment is not recommended for prepubertal gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent persons. Those clinicians who recommend gender-affirming endocrine treatments-appropriately trained diagnosing clinicians (required), a mental health provider for adolescents (required) and mental health professional for adults (recommended)-should be knowledgeable about the diagnostic criteria and criteria for gender-affirming treatment, have sufficient training and experience in assessing psychopathology, and be willing to participate in the ongoing care throughout the endocrine transition. We recommend treating gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent adolescents who have entered puberty at Tanner Stage G2/B2 by suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists. Clinicians may add gender-affirming hormones after a multidisciplinary team has confirmed the persistence of gender dysphoria/gender incongruence and sufficient mental capacity to give informed consent to this partially irreversible treatment. Most adolescents have this capacity by age 16 years old. We recognize that there may be compelling reasons to initiate sex hormone treatment prior to age 16 years, although there is minimal published experience treating prior to 13.5 to 14 years of age. For the care of peripubertal youths and older adolescents, we recommend that an expert multidisciplinary team comprised of medical professionals and mental health professionals manage this treatment. The treating physician must confirm the criteria for treatment used by the referring mental health practitioner and collaborate with them in decisions about gender-affirming surgery in older adolescents. For adult gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent persons, the treating clinicians (collectively) should have expertise in transgender-specific diagnostic criteria, mental health, primary care, hormone treatment, and surgery, as needed by the patient. We suggest maintaining physiologic levels of gender-appropriate hormones and monitoring for known risks and complications. When high doses of sex steroids are required to suppress endogenous sex steroids and/or in advanced age, clinicians may consider surgically removing natal gonads along with reducing sex steroid treatment. Clinicians should monitor both transgender males (female to male) and transgender females (male to female) for reproductive organ cancer risk when surgical removal is incomplete. Additionally, clinicians should persistently monitor adverse effects of sex steroids. For gender-affirming surgeries in adults, the treating physician must collaborate with and confirm the criteria for treatment used by the referring physician. Clinicians should avoid harming individuals (via hormone treatment) who have conditions other than gender dysphoria/gender incongruence and who may not benefit from the physical changes associated with this treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wylie C Hembree
- New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | | | - Louis Gooren
- VU University Medical Center, 1007 MB Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Walter J Meyer
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555
| | - M Hassan Murad
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-Based Practice Center, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | - Stephen M Rosenthal
- University of California San Francisco, Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Joshua D Safer
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02118
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Emory University School of Medicine and the Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia 30322
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Velho I, Fighera TM, Ziegelmann PK, Spritzer PM. Effects of testosterone therapy on BMI, blood pressure, and laboratory profile of transgender men: a systematic review. Andrology 2017; 5:881-888. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- I. Velho
- Gynecological Endocrinology Unit; Division of Endocrinology; Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre; Porto Alegre Brazil
- Gender Identity Program; Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre; Porto Alegre Brazil
| | - T. M. Fighera
- Gynecological Endocrinology Unit; Division of Endocrinology; Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre; Porto Alegre Brazil
- Gender Identity Program; Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre; Porto Alegre Brazil
| | - P. K. Ziegelmann
- Department of Statistics; Institute of Mathematics; Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul; Porto Alegre Brazil
| | - P. M. Spritzer
- Gynecological Endocrinology Unit; Division of Endocrinology; Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre; Porto Alegre Brazil
- Gender Identity Program; Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre; Porto Alegre Brazil
- Department of Physiology; Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul; Porto Alegre Brazil
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We provide an update of bone health in trans persons on cross-sex hormonal therapy. This drastic hormonal reversal will have direct but also indirect effects on bone, through body composition changes. RECENT FINDINGS Recent evidence suggests that trans women, even before the start of any hormonal intervention, already have a lower bone mass, a higher frequency of osteoporosis, and a smaller bone size vs. natal men. During cross-sex hormonal treatment, bone mass was maintained or gained in trans women. In trans men, bone metabolism seemed to increase during short-term testosterone therapy, but no major changes have been found in bone density. On long-term testosterone therapy, larger cortical bone size was observed in trans men vs. natal women. SUMMARY Follow-up of bone health and osteoporosis prevention in trans persons is important. We advise active assessment of osteoporosis risk factors including the (previous) use of hormonal therapy. Based on this risk profile and the intended therapy, bone densitometry may be indicated. Long-term use of antiandrogens or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists alone should be monitored as trans women may have low bone mass, even prior to treatment. Therapy compliance with the cross-sex hormones is of major concern, especially after gonadectomy. Large-scaled, multicenter, and long-term research is needed to determine a well tolerated dosage of cross-sex hormonal treatment, also in elderly trans persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Van Caenegem
- aDepartment of Endocrinology bCenter for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Meriggiola MC, Gava G. Endocrine care of transpeople part I. A review of cross-sex hormonal treatments, outcomes and adverse effects in transmen. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2015; 83:597-606. [PMID: 25692791 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Revised: 01/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gender dysphoria (GD) is characterized by discomfort with the assigned or birth gender and the urge to live as a member of the desired sex. The goal of medical and surgical treatment is to improve the well-being and quality of life of transpeople. The acquisition of phenotypic features of the desired gender requires the use of cross-sex hormonal therapy (CHT). Adult transmen are treated with testosterone to induce virilization. In adolescents with severe and persistent GD, consideration can be given to arresting puberty at Tanner Stage II and if dysphoria persists, CHT is generally started after 16 years of age. Currently available short- and long-term safety studies suggest that CHT is reasonably safe in transmen. Monitoring of transmen should be more frequent during the first year of cross-sex hormone administration reducing to once or twice per year thereafter. Long-term monitoring after sex reassignment surgery (SRS) includes annual check-ups as are carried out for natal hypogonadal men. In elderly transmen, special attention should be paid to haematocrit in particular. Screening for breast and cervical cancer should be continued in transmen not undergoing SRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Meriggiola
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Gava
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Abstract
Despite increased global interest in testosterone deficiency in men and its treatment with testosterone therapy, practical aspects of care remain confusing to many practitioners. Testosterone deficiency can result from testicular dysfunction (primary hypogonadism) or hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction (secondary hypogonadism), and be congenital or acquired. Sexual and nonsexual symptoms of testosterone deficiency can negatively affect quality of life and cause considerable general health concerns. Investigation of testosterone deficiency should be undertaken in men with symptoms of reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, fatigue, poor concentration, and poor memory. Total and free testosterone are the most frequently used tests and evaluating serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone aids determination of primary versus secondary testosterone deficiency. Multiple formulations of testosterone therapy are available, but symptomatic benefits might not manifest for several weeks to many months; long-acting formulations are convenient and improve compliance. Concerns regarding cardiovascular and prostate cancer risks are not supported by current evidence, monitoring during therapy is mandatory. On balance, testosterone therapy can be considered a safe and effective treatment for testosterone deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Abraham Morgentaler
- Men's Health Boston, 200 Boylston Street, A309, Chestnut Hill, MA 02647, USA
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Van Caenegem E, Wierckx K, Taes Y, Schreiner T, Vandewalle S, Toye K, Lapauw B, Kaufman JM, T'Sjoen G. Body composition, bone turnover, and bone mass in trans men during testosterone treatment: 1-year follow-up data from a prospective case-controlled study (ENIGI). Eur J Endocrinol 2015; 172:163-71. [PMID: 25550352 DOI: 10.1530/eje-14-0586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the evolution of body composition and bone metabolism in trans men during the first year of cross-sex hormonal therapy. METHODS In a prospective controlled study, we included 23 trans men (female-to-male trans persons) and 23 age-matched control women. In both groups, we examined grip strength (hand dynamometer), biochemical markers of bone turnover (C-terminal telopeptides of type 1 collagen (CTX) and procollagen 1 aminoterminal propeptide (P1NP)), total body fat and lean mass, and areal bone mineral density (aBMD) by dual-X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and fat and muscle area at the forearm and calf, bone geometry, and volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), before treatment and after 1 year of treatment with undecanoate (1000 mg i.m./12 weeks). RESULTS Before hormonal treatment, trans men had similar bone and body composition compared with control women. Testosterone treatment induced in trans men a gain in muscle mass (+10.4%) and strength and loss of fat mass (-9.7%) (all P<0.001) and increased the levels of P1NP and CTX (both P<0.01). Areal and volumetric bone parameters remained largely unchanged apart from a small increase in trabecular vBMD at the distal radius and in BMD at the total hip in trans men (P=0.036 and P=0.001 respectively). None of these changes were observed in the control group. CONCLUSIONS Short-term testosterone treatment in trans men increased muscle mass and bone turnover. The latter may rather reflect an anabolic effect of testosterone treatment rather than bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Van Caenegem
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K Wierckx
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Y Taes
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
| | - T Schreiner
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Vandewalle
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K Toye
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Lapauw
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J-M Kaufman
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
| | - G T'Sjoen
- Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium Department of EndocrinologyGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, BelgiumEuropean Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI)Ghent, BelgiumDepartment of EndocrinologyRikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannvn 20, Oslo, NorwayCenter for Sexology and Gender ProblemsGhent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, Belgium
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Vanderschueren D, Laurent MR, Claessens F, Gielen E, Lagerquist MK, Vandenput L, Börjesson AE, Ohlsson C. Sex steroid actions in male bone. Endocr Rev 2014; 35:906-60. [PMID: 25202834 PMCID: PMC4234776 DOI: 10.1210/er.2014-1024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroids are chief regulators of gender differences in the skeleton, and male gender is one of the strongest protective factors against osteoporotic fractures. This advantage in bone strength relies mainly on greater cortical bone expansion during pubertal peak bone mass acquisition and superior skeletal maintenance during aging. During both these phases, estrogens acting via estrogen receptor-α in osteoblast lineage cells are crucial for male cortical and trabecular bone, as evident from conditional genetic mouse models, epidemiological studies, rare genetic conditions, genome-wide meta-analyses, and recent interventional trials. Genetic mouse models have also demonstrated a direct role for androgens independent of aromatization on trabecular bone via the androgen receptor in osteoblasts and osteocytes, although the target cell for their key effects on periosteal bone formation remains elusive. Low serum estradiol predicts incident fractures, but the highest risk occurs in men with additionally low T and high SHBG. Still, the possible clinical utility of serum sex steroids for fracture prediction is unknown. It is likely that sex steroid actions on male bone metabolism rely also on extraskeletal mechanisms and cross talk with other signaling pathways. We propose that estrogens influence fracture risk in aging men via direct effects on bone, whereas androgens exert an additional antifracture effect mainly via extraskeletal parameters such as muscle mass and propensity to fall. Given the demographic trends of increased longevity and consequent rise of osteoporosis, an increased understanding of how sex steroids influence male bone health remains a high research priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Vanderschueren
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology (D.V.) and Gerontology and Geriatrics (M.R.L., E.G.), Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine; Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (M.R.L., F.C.); and Centre for Metabolic Bone Diseases (D.V., M.R.L., E.G.), KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; and Center for Bone and Arthritis Research (M.K.L., L.V., A.E.B., C.O.), Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
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Pelusi C, Costantino A, Martelli V, Lambertini M, Bazzocchi A, Ponti F, Battista G, Venturoli S, Meriggiola MC. Effects of three different testosterone formulations in female-to-male transsexual persons. J Sex Med 2014; 11:3002-11. [PMID: 25250780 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gender dysphoria is characterized by a strong discomfort with the gender assigned at birth and the urge to live as a member of the opposite gender. The acquisition of phenotypic features of the desired gender requires the use of cross-sex hormones. Female-to-male (FtM) transsexual persons are treated with testosterone to induce virilization. AIM The aim of the study was to assess the effects of three different testosterone formulations on body weight and composition and metabolic and bone parameters. METHODS Forty-five FtM transsexuals were randomly assigned to receive testoviron depot (i.m.: 100 mg/10 days; n = 15), testosterone gel (50 mg/die; n = 15), and testosterone undecanoate (i.m.: 1,000 mg every 6 weeks for the first 6 weeks and then every 12 weeks, n = 15). FtM individuals were studied before, at week 30, and at week 54 of testosterone treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Anthropometric, metabolic, bone, hematological, and biochemical parameters were evaluated at baseline and after 12 months of treatment. RESULTS Lean body mass significantly increased and fat mass decreased in all groups. No modifications were reported in fasting insulin and insulin sensitivity index. High-density plasma lipoprotein levels declined significantly and low-density lipoprotein concentrations increased significantly in the three groups. The activated partial thromboplastin time and factor I did not change while prothrombin time significantly increased in all groups. At week 54, all subjects were amenorrheic and time to amenorrhea did not differ between the three groups. Current general life satisfaction was increased in all subjects after 1 year of treatment. CONCLUSIONS One-year testosterone administration in FtM transsexuals appears to be very safe with no differences among the testosterone formulations used. Our study is preliminary, and the detection of subtle or long-term differences in the effects of the three formulations may require further larger and longer term studies in this and other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Pelusi
- Division of Endocrinology, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Smith KP, Madison CM, Milne NM. Gonadal Suppressive and Cross-Sex Hormone Therapy for Gender Dysphoria in Adolescents and Adults. Pharmacotherapy 2014; 34:1282-97. [DOI: 10.1002/phar.1487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Christina M. Madison
- Southern Nevada Health District; Roseman University of Health Sciences; Las Vegas Nevada
| | - Nikki M. Milne
- Roseman University of Health Sciences; South Jordan Utah
- Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, Family Medicine Clinic; Provo, Utah; Provo Utah
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Manieri C, Castellano E, Crespi C, Di Bisceglie C, Dell’Aquila C, Gualerzi A, Molo M. Medical Treatment of Subjects with Gender Identity Disorder: The Experience in an Italian Public Health Center. Int J Transgend 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/15532739.2014.899174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Juang PS, Peng S, Allehmazedeh K, Shah A, Coviello AD, Herbst KL. Testosterone with Dutasteride, but Not Anastrazole, Improves Insulin Sensitivity in Young Obese Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Sex Med 2014; 11:563-73. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Effects of long-term high dose testosterone administration on vaginal epithelium structure and estrogen receptor-α and -β expression of young women. Int J Impot Res 2013; 25:172-7. [PMID: 23552580 DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2013.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Revised: 12/05/2012] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
To date, the effects of long-term testosterone (T) administration on the human vagina are not completely understood. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of long-term T treatment on vaginal tissue histology, estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ) expression and proliferation in female to male transsexual subjects (FtM). We compared vaginal samples from FtM subjects with those of premenopausal women (PrM) and postmenopausal women (M) not receiving any hormonal treatment for at least 2 years. Vaginal tissue samples from 16 FtM subjects treated with T (intramuscular injections of 100 mg Testoviron Depot/7-10 days for at least 1 year), undergoing sex reassignment surgery, and 16 PrM and 16 M subjects undergoing a vaginal hysterectomy for prolapse, were collected. For each sample, morphology, glycogen content, proliferation (ki-67), ERα and ERβ expression were evaluated. Vaginal samples from FtM showed a loss of normal architecture of the epithelium, intermediate and superficial layers were completely lost, and glycogen content was depleted. T administration resulted in a strong proliferation reduction when compared with both M and PrM subjects. Stromal and epithelial ERα as well as ERβ were significantly decreased in FtM when compared with PrM subjects. In conclusion, our data suggests that systemic T administration at supraphysiological dosage, determines profound changes in histomorphology and reduces ERs expression and proliferation of vaginal epithelium.
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Pelusi C, Forlani G, Zanotti L, Gambineri A, Pasquali R. No metabolic impact of surgical normalization of hyperandrogenism in postmenopausal women with ovarian androgen-secreting tumours. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2013; 78:533-8. [PMID: 22583337 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2012.04438.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Revised: 03/01/2012] [Accepted: 05/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To examine the impact of surgical normalization of testosterone on body weight and on glucose and lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity in a group of hyperandrogenic women with ovarian androgen-secreting tumours (OAST). METHODS Five consecutive postmenopausal hyperandrogenic patients (aged 63 ± 5 years) with a diagnosis of OAST were prospectively evaluated. Clinical signs, symptoms and metabolic and hormonal parameters were collected at the time of the diagnosis and at follow-up, 12 months after surgical oophorectomy. A group of 15 age-matched and body mass index-matched postmenopausal control women served as a reference group. RESULTS At baseline, patients with OAST had very high testosterone levels and inappropriately low gonadotrophin levels for their menopausal status. All the women were overweight or obese, and one had a history of polycystic ovary syndrome and Type 2 diabetes. Twelve months after surgical oophorectomy, testosterone and gonadotrophin levels returned to appropriate values for menopausal status in all patients; however, no change in body weight was found. Fasting glucose levels slightly increased (P < 0·05) without any significant change in other metabolic parameters. In the woman with diabetes, a moderate decrease in haemoglobin A1c occurred. Red blood cell count and haematocrit values were normalized (P < 0·05, respectively). CONCLUSION Normalization of androgen levels achieved after surgical oophorectomy did not cause any significant change in body weight and insulin sensitivity. These findings may offer a different perspective on the impact of hyperandrogenaemia on metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Pelusi
- Division of Endocrinology, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University Alma Mater Studiorum, Bologna, Italy
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Costantino A, Cerpolini S, Alvisi S, Morselli PG, Venturoli S, Meriggiola MC. A prospective study on sexual function and mood in female-to-male transsexuals during testosterone administration and after sex reassignment surgery. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2013; 39:321-35. [PMID: 23470169 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2012.736920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Testosterone administration in female-to-male transsexual subjects aims to develop and maintain the characteristics of the desired sex. Very little data exists on its effects on sexuality of female-to-male transsexuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate sexual function and mood of female-to-male transsexuals from their first visit, throughout testosterone administration and after sex reassignment surgery. Participants were 50 female-to-male transsexual subjects who completed questionnaires assessing sexual parameters and mood. The authors measured reproductive hormones and hematological parameters. The results suggest a positive effect of testosterone treatment on sexual function and mood in female-to-male transsexual subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Costantino
- Interdepartmental Center for Sexual Health Protection, Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, University of Bologna and S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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Yarrow JF, McCoy SC, Borst SE. Intracrine and myotrophic roles of 5α-reductase and androgens: a review. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2012; 44:818-26. [PMID: 21988936 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0b013e31823bfcbf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Historically, the circulation was thought to be the primary source of androgens influencing skeletal muscle. However, a growing body of research indicates that skeletal muscle expresses several androgen-synthesizing enzymes, including 5α-reductase. The intramuscular expression of these enzymes suggests that skeletal muscle is capable of synthesizing bioactive androgens, which could induce myotrophic effects via intracrine action. PURPOSE The aim of this brief review is to discuss recent research related to the intracrine and myotrophic roles of androgens, with particular focus on 5α-reductase as a myotrophic mediator. METHODS Included in the review are 17 reviews and 58 original studies that were identified by a systematic review from MEDLINE and deemed particularly relevant to our purpose. Results are summarized to provide an overview of 5α-reductase as a mediator of the myotrophic effects of androgens. In particular, discussions are included regarding androgen biosynthesis and androgen signaling within skeletal muscle, the effects of exercise on intramuscular androgen biosynthesis, and clinical applications of androgens and of a new class of myotrophic agonists termed selective androgen receptor modulator. RESULTS The ability of several peripheral tissues to synthesize bioactive androgens is well documented in the literature. Herein, we summarize newer studies that demonstrate that 1) skeletal muscle has the capability to synthesize both testosterone and dihydrotestosterone from dehydroepiandrosterone, which is present in abundance within the circulation, and 2) that exercise increases the expression of certain androgen-biosynthesizing enzymes within muscle. CONCLUSIONS Intramuscularly synthesized androgens have the potential to influence skeletal muscle via intracrine action; however, their exact role in skeletal muscle development and maintenance requires further elucidation.
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Rametti G, Carrillo B, Gómez-Gil E, Junque C, Zubiaurre-Elorza L, Segovia S, Gomez A, Karadi K, Guillamon A. Effects of androgenization on the white matter microstructure of female-to-male transsexuals. A diffusion tensor imaging study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2012; 37:1261-9. [PMID: 22260939 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2011.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2011] [Revised: 12/20/2011] [Accepted: 12/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) can sensitively detect white matter sex differences and the effects of pharmacological treatments. Before cross-sex hormone treatment, the white matter microstructure of several brain bundles in female-to-male transsexuals (FtMs) differs from those in females but not from that in males. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether cross-sex hormone treatment (androgenization) affects the brain white matter microstructure. Using a Siemens 3 T Trio Tim Magneton, DTI was performed twice, before and during cross-sex hormonal treatment with testosterone in 15 FtMs scanned. Fractional anisotropy (FA) was analyzed on white matter of the whole brain, and the latter was spatially analyzed using Tract-Based Spatial Statistics. Before each scan the subjects were assessed for serum testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin level (SHBG), and their free testosterone index. After at least seven months of cross-gender hormonal treatment, FA values increased in the right superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF) and the right corticospinal tract (CST) in FtMs compared to their pre-treatment values. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that the increments in the FA values in the SLF and CST are predicted by the free testosterone index before hormonal treatment. All these observations suggest that testosterone treatment changes white matter microstructure in FtMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Rametti
- Clinical Institute of Neuroscience, Hospital Clinic i Provincial, Barcelona, Spain
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Mueller A, Haeberle L, Zollver H, Claassen T, Kronawitter D, Oppelt PG, Cupisti S, Beckmann MW, Dittrich R. Effects of intramuscular testosterone undecanoate on body composition and bone mineral density in female-to-male transsexuals. J Sex Med 2011; 7:3190-8. [PMID: 20584125 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.01912.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The most common treatment regimen in female-to-male transsexuals is administration of short-acting testosterone esters intramuscularly every 2 weeks. AIM The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of long-acting intramuscular testosterone undecanoate on body composition and bone mineral density during cross-sex hormone therapy in female-to-male transsexuals. METHODS Forty-five female-to-male transsexuals (FtMs) were treated with injections of testosterone undecanoate 1,000 mg intramuscularly every 12 weeks over 24 months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Body composition, bone mineral density, hormone parameters, and lipids were compared after 12 months and after 24 months with baseline values. Sonographic findings in the ovaries and endometrium, clinical and adverse effects during the study period were recorded. RESULTS There was a significant increase in lean mass in the FtMs during the study period in comparison with baseline values, whereas no change in BMI, fat mass, and bone mineral density was observed. There was a significant decline in gonadotropins, estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, sex hormone-binding globulin, and high-density lipoprotein, while testosterone and triglyceride levels increased significantly after 12 and 24 months. Ovaries remained unchanged and no noticeable endometrial pathology was observed. No mortality or morbidity was observed during the study period. We observed a cessation of menstrual bleeding, an increase in clitoral growth, libido, body and beard hair growth, deepened voices and decline in breast size. There was a significant increase in hemoglobin, hematocrit, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and an increase in systolic blood pressure during the study period. CONCLUSIONS There was an increase in lean mass during the study period in FtMs treated with testosterone undecanoate. Transsexual patients should be monitored for adverse effects on lipid profiles, blood pressure, and erythrocytosis during intramuscular testosterone undecanoate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Mueller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Universitätsstrasse 21-23, Erlangen, Germany.
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Abstract
With evolving interest in multiscalar biological systems one could assume that reductionist approaches may not fully describe biological complexity. Instead, tools such as mathematical modeling, network analysis, and other multiplexed clinical- and research-oriented tests enable rapid analyses of high-throughput data parsed at the genomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and physiomic levels. A physiomic-level approach allows for recursive horizontal and vertical integration of subsystem coupling across and within spatiotemporal scales. Additionally, this methodology recognizes previously ignored subsystems and the strong, nonintuitively obvious and indirect connections among physiological events that potentially account for the uncertainties in medicine. In this review, we flip the reductionist research paradigm and review the concept of systems biology and its applications to bone pathophysiology. Specifically, a bone-centric physiome model is presented that incorporates systemic-level processes with their respective therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J Weiss
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Bone Disease, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Traish AM, Gooren LJ. Safety of Physiological Testosterone Therapy in Women: Lessons from Female-to-Male Transsexuals (FMT) Treated with Pharmacological Testosterone Therapy. J Sex Med 2010; 7:3758-64. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.01962.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Cupisti S, Giltay EJ, Gooren LJ, Kronawitter D, Oppelt PG, Beckmann MW, Dittrich R, Mueller A. The impact of testosterone administration to female-to-male transsexuals on insulin resistance and lipid parameters compared with women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:2647-53. [PMID: 20451188 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2009] [Revised: 03/07/2010] [Accepted: 03/15/2010] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of testosterone (T) administration to female-to-male transsexuals (FtMs) on insulin resistance and lipid parameters and to compare the effects with women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). DESIGN Cohort analysis. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) Twenty-nine FtMs and 240 women with PCOS. INTERVENTION(S) Screening panel, ultrasound of the ovaries, hormone, lipid, and glucose and insulin measurements. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Endocrine, metabolic parameters, and insulin resistance. RESULT(S) The PCOS women had significantly higher fasting, 1-h, and 2-h insulin levels and a significantly lower insulin sensitivity index compared with FtMs before and after their T treatment. There were higher triglyceride levels and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels upon T treatment in FtMs compared with the PCOS women. Women with PCOS had higher body mass index (BMI) values. Positive correlations between insulin resistance indices and BMI were found only in women with PCOS. CONCLUSION(S) Testosterone administration by itself showed little detrimental influence on insulin resistance indices, but it had significant effects on lipid profiles. Compared with T, BMI had a greater impact on insulin resistance in women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Cupisti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
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Factors influencing time course of pain after depot oil intramuscular injection of testosterone undecanoate. Asian J Androl 2010; 12:227-33. [PMID: 20118950 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain following depot intramuscular (IM) injection of oil vehicle-based drugs has been little studied. This study aimed to determine prospectively the prevalence, determinants, severity and functional consequences of pain during the week after IM injection of 1 000 mg testosterone undecanoate (TU) in a 4-mL castor oil vehicle. Androgen-deficient men receiving regular T replacement therapy at an academic andrology clinic were recruited to report pain scores using a coloured visual linear analogue scale at seven times over the first day and daily for a week after a deep IM gluteal injection. The time course and covariables influencing pain scores were analysed by mixed model analysis of variance (ANOVA). Following 168 injections in 125 men, pain was reported by 80% of men, peaking immediately after injection, reaching only moderate severity, lasting 1-2 days and returning to baseline by day 4. The pain required little analgesic use and produced minimal interference in daily activities. The time course of pain scores was reproducible in the 43 men who underwent two consecutive injections. Pain was more severe in men who had an earlier painful injection, but less severe in older and more obese men. There were negligible differences in post-injection pain experience between experienced nurses administering injections. Deep IM gluteal injection of depot TU in 4-mL castor oil is well tolerated and post-injection pain is influenced by earlier painful injection experience, as well as age and obesity.
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