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Corona G, Rastrelli G, Sparano C, Vignozzi L, Maggi M. Acquired hypoprolactinemia in men, possible phenotype. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2024:10.1007/s11154-024-09895-9. [PMID: 39066947 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-024-09895-9] [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] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The physiological role of prolactin (PRL) in men is still not well defined. The pathological increase is characterized by sexual function impairment along with possible negative consequences in body composition and metabolic profile. Conversely, the clinical significance of reduced PRL levels was only partially investigated or mainly neglected. The present paper aims to summarize and critically discuss possible phenotypes characterizing male subjects with reduced PRL levels. When possible, meta-analytic results were provided. Available data derived from patients seeking medical care for sexual dysfunction as well as from cross-sectional and longitudinal studies showed that low PRL in males is associated with a worse metabolic phenotype (including diabetes mellitus), mood disturbances (including anxiety and depression), and sexual dysfunctions (including psychogenic erectile and ejaculatory dysfunctions). Whether or not these features are direct consequences of reduced PRL levels or whether the latter reflect other pathway impairments such as serotoninergic failure cannot be clarified. The present data, however, emphasize that a deficiency of PRL should be taken into account and need further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Rastrelli
- Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Clotilde Sparano
- Endocrinology Unit, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, 50139, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, 50139, Italy.
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Corona G, Rastrelli G, Bianchi N, Sparano C, Sforza A, Vignozzi L, Maggi M. Hyperprolactinemia and male sexual function: focus on erectile dysfunction and sexual desire. Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:324-332. [PMID: 37340146 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00717-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
The present paper aims to analyze and discuss the available evidence supporting the relationship between male sexual function and elevated prolactin (PRL) levels (HPRL). Two different sources of data were analyzed. Clinical data were derived from a series of patients seeking medical care for sexual dysfunction at our Unit. Out of 418 studies, 25 papers were used with a meta-analytic approach to evaluate the overall prevalence of HPRL in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and to study the influence of HPRL and its treatment on male sexual function. Among 4215 patients (mean age 51.6 ± 13.1 years) consulting for sexual dysfunction at our Unit, 176 (4.2%) showed PRL levels above the normal range. Meta-analytic data showed that HPRL is a rare condition among patients with ED (2 [1;3]%). Either clinical and meta-analytic data confirm a stepwise negative influence of PRL on male sexual desire (S = 0.00004 [0.00003; 0.00006]; I = -0.58915 [-0.78438; -0.39392]; both p < 0.0001 from meta-regression analysis). Normalization of PRL levels is able to improve libido. The role of HPRL in ED remains inconclusive. Data from a meta-analytic approach showed that either HPRL or reduced T levels were independently associated with ED rates. The normalization of PRL levels only partially restored ED. HPRL did not significantly contribute to ED severity, in our clinical setting. In conclusion, treating HPRL can restore normal sexual desire, whereas its effect on erection is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Medical Department, Azienda-Usl Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - G Rastrelli
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - N Bianchi
- Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Medical Department, Azienda-Usl Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Sparano
- Endocrinology Unit Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - A Sforza
- Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Medical Department, Azienda-Usl Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Vignozzi
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Lan X, Chen D, Wang M, Yu X, Dong L, Li J, Chang D, Yang F. The Effect of COVID-19 on Male Sex Hormones: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Study. J Epidemiol Glob Health 2024; 14:255-264. [PMID: 38407718 PMCID: PMC11176140 DOI: 10.1007/s44197-024-00203-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the possible effects of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (2019-NCOV) on male sex hormones and reproductive ability, and analyze its incidence and risk factors. METHODS We retrieved from PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Clinical Trails, CNKI, CBM, Wan Fang Database and VIP to collect research on the effects of COVID-19 on the male sex hormone. Our literature search was conducted until April 2022, and two investigators independently screened articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. In strict accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria, two researchers independently screened the literature and comprehensively analyzed 8 cohort studies on the impact of COVID-19 on male sex hormone. And We used RevMan5.4.1 and Stata15.0 for statistical analysis. Finally, there were eight cohort studies on the effects of COVID-19 on male sex hormones. RESULTS T(RR = - 3.94; 95% CI - 6.22, - 1.66; P = 0.0007), testosterone in the COVID-19 group decreased by 3.94 nmol/L compared with the control group, and the difference was statistically significant. LH (RR = 0.85; 95% CI - 0.26, 1.96; P = 0.13), the LH in COVID-19 group was 0.85 mlU/ml higher than that in control group, but the difference was not statistically significant. FSH (RR = 0.25; 95% CI - 0.72, 1.23; P = 0.61), the FSH of COVID-19 group was 0.25 mlU/ml higher than that of the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant. PRL (RR = 2.42; 95% CI 0.52, 4.31; P = 0.01), the PRL in the COVID-19 group was 2.42 ng/ml higher than that in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant. E2(RR = 11.88; 95% CI 9.90, 13.86; P < 0.00001), The level of E2 in the COVID-19 group was 11.88 pg/ml higher than that in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant. T:LH (RR = - 0.39; 95% CI - 076, - 0.02; P = 0.04), the ratio of T:LH in COVID-19 group was lower than that in control group, and the difference was statistically significant. FSH:LH (RR = - 0.38; 95% CI - 0.86, 0.11; P = 0.13), the ratio of FSH:LH decreased in COVID-19 group compared with control group, but the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 can affect the level of sex hormones, especially T, which may further affect male fertility. Due to the limitations of this study, this conclusion needs to be further verified by large-sample, high-quality prospective cohort studies on the long-term effects of COVID-19 on male sex hormones and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiucheng Lan
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Diang Chen
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Meijing Wang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xujun Yu
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Liang Dong
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Junjun Li
- Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Degui Chang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China.
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Luo Y, Xu D, Ma Y, Yu W, Chen Y, Han X. Mediation of association between semen microcystin exposure and semen quality by sex hormones in Chinese men. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 124:108529. [PMID: 38159577 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108529] [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] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown microcystins (MCs) inducing male reproductive toxicity, but the underlying mechanisms in humans are unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the mediating role of serum sex hormones in the association between MC exposure and semen quality. In this study, we measured the levels of semen MCs and serum sex hormones in Chinese men [sample 1 (n = 649); sample 2 (n = 924)]. The results showed that there was a non-significant dose-dependent relationship between semen MCs and semen volume reduction (p for trend = 0.079) in sample 1, and semen MCs were significantly negatively associated with total motility, progressive motility, curvilinear velocity, mean angular displacement and acrosome integrity (p < 0.05) in sample 2. We also found that semen MCs were significantly positively associated with serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) (β = 0.151; 95% CI: 0.065, 0.236), but negatively associated with serum inhibin B (INHB) (β = -0.605; 95% CI: -0.944, -0.265), and these linear associations were confirmed in restricted cubic spline (RCS) models (all pnon-linearity > 0.1). Furthermore, mediation analysis revealed that serum INHB mediated 19.86% of the adverse effect of MC exposure on acrosome integrity. In conclusion, this study reveals the mediating roles of serum sex hormones in the relationship between MC exposure and decreased semen quality in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Luo
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Dihui Xu
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yuhan Ma
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Wen Yu
- Department of Andrology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
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Spaggiari G, Costantino F, Granata ARM, Tagliavini S, Canu G, Varani M, De Santis MC, Roli L, Trenti T, Simoni M, Santi D. Prolactin and spermatogenesis: new lights on the interplay between prolactin and sperm parameters. Endocrine 2023:10.1007/s12020-023-03375-x. [PMID: 37140814 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-023-03375-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To clarify the relationship between one the most gender-specific hormone, i.e. prolactin (PRL), and semen parameters in men. METHODS A retrospective, observational, cohort, real-world study was carried out, enrolling all men performing a semen analysis and PRL examination from 2010 to 2022. For each patient, the first semen analys was extracted, associated to PRL, total testosterone (TT), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Hyperprolactinaemia (>35 ng/mL) was excluded. RESULTS 1211 subjects were included. PRL serum levels were lower in normozoospermia compared to azoospermia (p = 0.002) and altered semen parameters (p = 0.048) groups. TT serum levels were not different among groups (p = 0.122). Excluding azoospermic men, PRL serum levels were lower in normozoospermic patients, when compared to other groups of semen alterations. An inverse correlation was detected between PRL and sperm concentration. Considering normozospermic subjects, PRL was directly related to both non-progressive sperm motility (p = 0.014) and normal sperm morphology (p = 0.040). Subdiving the cohort in quartiles according to PRL distribution, the highest motilities were observed in the second PRL quartile (8.30-11.10 ng/mL) and asthenozoospermia was significantly predicted by FSH (p < 0.001) and second PRL quartile (p = 0.045). CONCLUSION The PRL-spermatogenesis connection seems to be mild, although low-normal PRL levels are associated with the best spermatogenetic profile. PRL serum levels could mirror the immunoregulatory status within the testis, suggesting that there is a sort of 'PRL optimal window' reflecting an efficent spermatogenesis. Alternatively, men with good semen parameters might have a higher central dopaminergic tone resulting in low PRL levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Costantino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio R M Granata
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Simonetta Tagliavini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Canu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Varani
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Laura Roli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Trenti
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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Szewczyk AK, Ulutas S, Aktürk T, Al-Hassany L, Börner C, Cernigliaro F, Kodounis M, Lo Cascio S, Mikolajek D, Onan D, Ragaglini C, Ratti S, Rivera-Mancilla E, Tsanoula S, Villino R, Messlinger K, Maassen Van Den Brink A, de Vries T. Prolactin and oxytocin: potential targets for migraine treatment. J Headache Pain 2023; 24:31. [PMID: 36967387 PMCID: PMC10041814 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-023-01557-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a severe neurovascular disorder of which the pathophysiology is not yet fully understood. Besides the role of inflammatory mediators that interact with the trigeminovascular system, cyclic fluctuations in sex steroid hormones are involved in the sex dimorphism of migraine attacks. In addition, the pituitary-derived hormone prolactin and the hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin have been reported to play a modulating role in migraine and contribute to its sex-dependent differences. The current narrative review explores the relationship between these two hormones and the pathophysiology of migraine. We describe the physiological role of prolactin and oxytocin, its relationship to migraine and pain, and potential therapies targeting these hormones or their receptors.In summary, oxytocin and prolactin are involved in nociception in opposite ways. Both operate at peripheral and central levels, however, prolactin has a pronociceptive effect, while oxytocin appears to have an antinociceptive effect. Therefore, migraine treatment targeting prolactin should aim to block its effects using prolactin receptor antagonists or monoclonal antibodies specifically acting at migraine-pain related structures. This action should be local in order to avoid a decrease in prolactin levels throughout the body and associated adverse effects. In contrast, treatment targeting oxytocin should enhance its signalling and antinociceptive effects, for example using intranasal administration of oxytocin, or possibly other oxytocin receptor agonists. Interestingly, the prolactin receptor and oxytocin receptor are co-localized with estrogen receptors as well as calcitonin gene-related peptide and its receptor, providing a positive perspective on the possibilities for an adequate pharmacological treatment of these nociceptive pathways. Nevertheless, many questions remain to be answered. More particularly, there is insufficient data on the role of sex hormones in men and the correct dosing according to sex differences, hormonal changes and comorbidities. The above remains a major challenge for future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Szewczyk
- Doctoral School, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Samiye Ulutas
- Department of Neurology, Kartal Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tülin Aktürk
- Department of Neurology, Kartal Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Linda Al-Hassany
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Corinna Börner
- Department of Pediatrics - Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, LMU Hospital, Division of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, Lindwurmstr. 4, 80337, Munich, Germany
- LMU Center for Children with Medical Complexity - iSPZ Hauner, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Lindwurmstr. 4, 80337, Munich, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Federica Cernigliaro
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit Department, Pro.M.I.S.E. "G D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Michalis Kodounis
- First Department of Neurology, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Salvatore Lo Cascio
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit Department, Pro.M.I.S.E. "G D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - David Mikolajek
- Department of Neurology, City Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Dilara Onan
- Spine Health Unit, Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Ragaglini
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Susanna Ratti
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Eduardo Rivera-Mancilla
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sofia Tsanoula
- Department of Neurology, 401 Military Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Rafael Villino
- Department of Neurology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Karl Messlinger
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Antoinette Maassen Van Den Brink
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tessa de Vries
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Corona G, Rastrelli G, Comeglio P, Guaraldi F, Mazzatenta D, Sforza A, Vignozzi L, Maggi M. The metabolic role of prolactin: systematic review, meta-analysis and preclinical considerations. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2022; 17:533-545. [PMID: 36447418 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2022.2144829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hyperprolactinemia has been proven to induce hypogonadism and metabolic derangements in both genders, while the consequences of prolactin (PRL) deficiency have been poorly investigated. AREAS COVERED To systematically review and analyze data from clinical studies focusing on the metabolic consequences of abnormally high prolactin levels (HPRL) and low prolactin levels (LPRL). In addition, data from preclinical studies about underlying pathophysiological mechanisms were summarized and discussed. EXPERT OPINION PRL contributes to providing the correct amount of energy to support the mother and the fetus/offspring during pregnancy and lactation, but it also has a homeostatic role. Pathological PRL elevation beyond these physiological conditions, but also its reduction, impairs metabolism and body composition in both genders, increasing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular events. Hence, hypoprolactinemia should be avoided as much as possible during treatment with dopamine agonists for prolactinomas. Patients with hypoprolactinemia, because of endogenous or iatrogenic conditions, deserve, as those with hyperprolactinemia, careful metabolic assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit1, Medical Department, Azienda Usl, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Rastrelli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit2, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Federica Guaraldi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Diego Mazzatenta
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sforza
- Endocrinology Unit1, Medical Department, Azienda Usl, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM)4, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University, Bologna, Italy; Endocrinology Unit 4, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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8
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Lotti F, Frizza F, Balercia G, Barbonetti A, Behre HM, Calogero AE, Cremers JF, Francavilla F, Isidori AM, Kliesch S, La Vignera S, Lenzi A, Marcou M, Pilatz A, Poolamets O, Punab M, Godoy MFP, Quintian C, Rajmil O, Salvio G, Shaeer O, Weidner W, Maseroli E, Cipriani S, Baldi E, Degl'Innocenti S, Danza G, Caldini AL, Terreni A, Boni L, Krausz C, Maggi M. The European Academy of Andrology (EAA) ultrasound study on healthy, fertile men: Prostate-vesicular transrectal ultrasound reference ranges and associations with clinical, seminal and biochemical characteristics. Andrology 2022; 10:1150-1171. [PMID: 35735741 PMCID: PMC9544532 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) parameters are not standardized, especially in men of reproductive age. Hence, the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) promoted a multicenter study to assess the TRUS characteristics of healthy‐fertile men (HFM) to establish normative parameters. Objectives To report and discuss the prostate and seminal vesicles (SV) reference ranges and characteristics in HFM and their associations with clinical, seminal, biochemical parameters. Methods 188 men (35.6 ± 6.0 years) from a cohort of 248 HFM were studied, evaluating, on the same day, clinical, biochemical, seminal, TRUS parameters following Standard Operating Procedures. Results TRUS reference ranges and characteristics of the prostate and SV of HFM are reported herein. The mean PV was ∼25 ml. PV lower and upper limits were 15 and 35 ml, defining prostate hypotrophy and enlargement, respectively. PV was positively associated with age, waistline, current smoking (but not with T levels), seminal volume (and negatively with seminal pH), prostate inhomogeneity, macrocalcifications, calcification size and prostate arterial parameters, SV volume before and after ejaculation, deferential and epididymal size. Prostate calcifications and inhomogeneity were frequent, while midline prostatic cysts were rare and small. Ejaculatory duct abnormalities were absent. Periprostatic venous plexus size was positively associated with prostate calcifications, SV volume and arterial peak systolic velocity. Lower and upper limits of SV anterior‐posterior diameter after ejaculation were 6 and 16 mm, defining SV hypotrophy or dilation, respectively. SV total volume before ejaculation and delta SV total volume (DSTV) positively correlated with ejaculate volume, and DSTV correlated positively with sperm progressive motility. SV total volume after ejaculation was associated negatively with SV ejection fraction and positively with distal ampullas size. SV US abnormalities were rare. No association between TRUS and time to pregnancy, number of children or history of miscarriage was observed. Conclusions The present findings will help in better understanding male infertility pathophysiology and the meaning of specific TRUS findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lotti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Frizza
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Endocrinology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti Ancona, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Jann-Frederik Cremers
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Felice Francavilla
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marios Marcou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Olev Poolamets
- Andrology Unit, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Margus Punab
- Andrology Unit, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Claudia Quintian
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Osvaldo Rajmil
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Endocrinology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti Ancona, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Osama Shaeer
- Department of Andrology, Kasr El Aini Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Elisa Maseroli
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sarah Cipriani
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Selene Degl'Innocenti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanna Danza
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Boni
- Clinical Trials Coordinating Center, Toscano Cancer Institute, University Hospital Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Agarwal A, Baskaran S, Parekh N, Cho CL, Henkel R, Vij S, Arafa M, Panner Selvam MK, Shah R. Male infertility. Lancet 2021; 397:319-333. [PMID: 33308486 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(20)32667-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 434] [Impact Index Per Article: 144.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It is estimated that infertility affects 8-12% of couples globally, with a male factor being a primary or contributing cause in approximately 50% of couples. Causes of male subfertility vary highly, but can be related to congenital, acquired, or idiopathic factors that impair spermatogenesis. Many health conditions can affect male fertility, which underscores the need for a thorough evaluation of patients to identify treatable or reversible lifestyle factors or medical conditions. Although semen analysis remains the cornerstone for evaluating male infertility, advanced diagnostic tests to investigate sperm quality and function have been developed to improve diagnosis and management. The use of assisted reproductive techniques has also substantially improved the ability of couples with infertility to have biological children. This Seminar aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the assessment and management of men with infertility, along with current controversies and future endeavours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Neel Parekh
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Chak-Lam Cho
- SH Ho Urology Center, Department of Surgery, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Medical Bioscience, University of Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa; Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Vij
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mohamed Arafa
- Male Infertility Unit, Urology Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Andrology Department, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Rupin Shah
- Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Center, Mumbai, India
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10
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Wang B, Qin X, Xiao N, Yao Y, Duan Y, Cui X, Zhang S, Luo H, Sun H. Phthalate exposure and semen quality in infertile male population from Tianjin, China: Associations and potential mediation by reproductive hormones. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 744:140673. [PMID: 32702538 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Global decline in male fertility and their associations with ubiquitous exposure of phthalates (PAEs) have raised public concerns. However, the current epidemiological data are limited and controversial. Hence, we investigated possible associations between PAE exposure and male infertility. Eleven phthalate metabolites (mPAEs) were determined in urine and serum samples collected from eighty-eight males diagnosed with infertility from Tianjin, China. The median serum levels of mPAE were n.d. -3.63 ng/mL, which were 1-2 orders of magnitude lower than the urinary levels of n.d. -192 ng/mL. Negative associations were identified between urinary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and MiBP and serum MCMHP, as well as testosterone (T) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and the molar concentrations of ∑mPAE, while positive association was found between T and the serum molar concentrations of ∑mDEHP. Positive associations were found between the molar concentrations of serum ∑mPAE and sperm concentration, sperm motility rate, and progressive motility, between mono (2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP) and semen volume and total sperm number, and between MCMHP and progressive motility, while negative association was found between mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP) and progressive motility. Moreover, FSH was found to mediate the association between serum concentrations of MCMHP and progressive motility (mediation ratio = 41.6%), and LH to mediate the associations between serum concentrations of ∑mPAE and sperm concentration (mediation ratio = 45.7%) and sperm motility rate (mediation ratio = 29.0%). These results also suggested that serum levels of mPAE are a good predictor for male infertility. Further efforts need to be made on toxicological studies to systematically elaborate the internal mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xiaolei Qin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Nan Xiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, Tianjin 300100, China
| | - Yiming Yao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Yishuang Duan
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xianfeng Cui
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, Tianjin 300100, China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, Tianjin 300100, China
| | - Haining Luo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, Tianjin 300100, China
| | - Hongwen Sun
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
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11
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Different levels of estradiol are correlated with sexual dysfunction in adult men. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12660. [PMID: 32728148 PMCID: PMC7391660 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69712-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Ejaculatory dysfunction, including premature ejaculation (PE) and delayed ejaculation (DE), as well as erectile dysfunction (ED), constitute the majority of male sexual dysfunction. Despite a fair amount of data on the role of hormones and erection and ejaculation, it is inconclusive due to controversy in the current literature. To explore the correlation of male sexual dysfunction with hormonal profile, 1,076 men between the ages of 19–60 years (mean: 32.12 years) were included in this retrospective case–control study; 507 were categorized as ED, PE and DE groups. Five hundred and sixty-nine men without sexual dysfunction were enrolled in the control group. The background characteristics and clinical features of the four groups were collected and analyzed. The estradiol value was significantly elevated in the ED group than the control group (109.44 ± 47.14 pmol/L vs. 91.88 ± 27.68 pmol/L; P < 0.001). Conversely, the DE group had significantly lower level of estradiol than control did (70.76 ± 27.20 pmol/L vs. 91.88 ± 27.68 pmol/L; P < 0.001). The PE group had similar level of estradiol (91.73 ± 31.57 pmol/L vs. 91.88 ± 27.68 pmol/L; P = 0.960) but significantly higher level of testosterone (17.23 ± 5.72 nmol/L vs. 15.31 ± 4.31 nmol/L; P < 0.001) compared with the control group. In conclusion, elevated serum testosterone concentration was an independent risk factor for PE. Besides, there was a progressively increasing graded-distribution of estradiol values from DE to PE and ED groups.
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12
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Lotti F, Frizza F, Balercia G, Barbonetti A, Behre HM, Calogero AE, Cremers J, Francavilla F, Isidori AM, Kliesch S, La Vignera S, Lenzi A, Marcou M, Pilatz A, Poolamets O, Punab M, Peraza Godoy MF, Rajmil O, Salvio G, Shaeer O, Weidner W, Maseroli E, Cipriani S, Baldi E, Degl’Innocenti S, Danza G, Caldini AL, Terreni A, Boni L, Krausz C, Maggi M. The European Academy of Andrology (EAA) ultrasound study on healthy, fertile men: clinical, seminal and biochemical characteristics. Andrology 2020; 8:1005-1020. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lotti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Francesca Frizza
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Endocrinology Unit Ospedali Riuniti Ancona Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona Italy
| | - Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences University of L’Aquila L’Aquila Italy
| | - Hermann M. Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology Martin Luther University Halle‐Wittenberg Halle Germany
| | - Aldo E. Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine University of Catania Italy
| | - Jann‐Frederik Cremers
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology Münster University Hospital Münster Germany
| | - Felice Francavilla
- Andrology Unit Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences University of L’Aquila L’Aquila Italy
| | - Andrea M. Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology Münster University Hospital Münster Germany
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine University of Catania Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Marios Marcou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology Martin Luther University Halle‐Wittenberg Halle Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology Pediatric Urology and Andrology Justus Liebig University Giessen Germany
| | | | - Margus Punab
- Andrology Unit Tartu University Hospital Tartu Estonia
| | - Maria Fernanda Peraza Godoy
- Andrology Department Fundació Puigvert Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB‐Sant Pau) Barcelona Spain
| | - Osvaldo Rajmil
- Andrology Department Fundació Puigvert Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB‐Sant Pau) Barcelona Spain
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Endocrinology Unit Ospedali Riuniti Ancona Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona Italy
| | - Osama Shaeer
- Department of Andrology Kasr El Aini Faculty of Medicine Cairo University Cairo Egypt
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology Pediatric Urology and Andrology Justus Liebig University Giessen Germany
| | - Elisa Maseroli
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Sarah Cipriani
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Selene Degl’Innocenti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Giovanna Danza
- Endocrinology Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Boni
- Clinical Trials Coordinating Center Toscano Cancer Institute University Hospital Careggi Florence Italy
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio” University of Florence Florence Italy
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13
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Lotti F, Corona G, Cocci A, Cipriani S, Baldi E, Degl’Innocenti S, Franco PN, Gacci M, Maggi M. The prevalence of midline prostatic cysts and the relationship between cyst size and semen parameters among infertile and fertile men. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:2023-2034. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Lotti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
| | - A Cocci
- Department of Urology, Careggi Hospital, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, Florence, Italy
| | - S Cipriani
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
| | - E Baldi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
| | - S Degl’Innocenti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
| | - P N Franco
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
| | - M Gacci
- Department of Urology, Careggi Hospital, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
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14
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Khourdaji I, Lee H, Smith RP. Frontiers in hormone therapy for male infertility. Transl Androl Urol 2018; 7:S353-S366. [PMID: 30159242 PMCID: PMC6087845 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2018.04.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
For a significant number of couples worldwide, infertility is a harsh reality. As specialists in male infertility, much of our armamentarium lacks definitive, evidence-based therapies. For years, we have relied on manipulation of the male hormonal axis to treat those men who help carry the burden of infertility in their partnerships. Indeed, male factor infertility is the sole component of infertility in at least 20% of couples. Further compounding this dilemma is that 25% to 50% of males with infertility have no identifiable etiology and thus present a true management conundrum. This manuscript is an attempt to clarify what therapies exist for the treatment of male factor infertility. We have reviewed the relevant infertility literature honing, our focus on hormonal anomalies and their subsequent impact on fertility. Many of the therapies discussed have been utilized in practice for generations. Thus, this article attempts to provide the evidence-based literature to support the continued use of the current treatment paradigm. Furthermore, we recognize that any review beckons a discussion of what challenges and therapies await on the horizon. For instance, there has been significant interest in restoring spermatogenesis after testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). We explore the adverse long-term spermatogenic outcomes associated with TRT, which with the widespread use of TRT, will inevitably present a great challenge for male infertility specialists. Moreover, we discuss the role of varicocelectomy in the treatment of hypogonadism and infertility, review the association between growth hormone (GH) and male fertility and address the challenges presented by the rising prevalence of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iyad Khourdaji
- Department of Urology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Haerin Lee
- Department of Urology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ryan P Smith
- Department of Urology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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15
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Hong ZW, Feng YM, Ge YF, Jing J, Hu XC, Shen JM, Peng LP, Yao B, Xin ZC. Relation of size of seminal vesicles on ultrasound to premature ejaculation. Asian J Androl 2018; 19:554-560. [PMID: 27538475 PMCID: PMC5566849 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.186187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Myriad biological factors have been proposed to explain premature ejaculation (PE). However, data correlating PE with seminal vesicles (SVs) are sparse. The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the size of SV and PE. The cross-sectional study included 44 outpatients with PE and 44 volunteers without PE, and the size of SV was compared. Self-estimated intravaginal ejaculatory latency time, the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT), the International Index of Erectile Function-15, and the National Institutes of Health-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index were used for assessment of symptoms. Compared to the control group, the PE group had significantly higher mean anterior-posterior diameter (APD) of SV (P < 0.001). The optimal mean APD of SV cutoff level was 9.25 mm for PE. In the PE group, PEDT was also higher with a mean APD of SV ≥9.25 mm compared with mean APD of SV <9.25 mm. PEDT was significantly correlated with the mean APD of SV (r = 0.326, P = 0.031). The seminal plasma proteins were compared between six PE and six matched control cases by mass spectrometry and it was shown that 102 proteins were at least 1.5-fold up- or down-regulated. Among them, GGT1, LAMC1, and APP were significantly higher in the PE group. These results indicated that men with a larger mean APD of SV might have a higher PEDT score. Transrectal ultrasound of SV should be considered in the evaluation of patients with premature ejaculation. SV might be a potential target for the treatment of patients with PE and ultrasound change in SV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Wei Hong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Yu-Ming Feng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Yi-Feng Ge
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Jun Jing
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Xue-Chun Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Jia-Ming Shen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Long-Ping Peng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Southern Medical University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Bing Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Zhong-Cheng Xin
- Andrology Center, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100009, China
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16
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Abstract
Infertility affects up to 12% of all men, and sexual dysfunction occurs frequently in men of reproductive age, causing infertility in some instances. In infertile men, hypoactive sexual desire and lack of sexual satisfaction are the most prevalent types of sexual dysfunction, ranging from 8.9% to 68.7%. Erectile dysfunction and/or premature ejaculation, evaluated with validated tools, have a prevalence of one in six infertile men, and orgasmic dysfunction has a prevalence of one in ten infertile men. In addition, infertile men can experience a heavy psychological burden. Infertility and its associated psychological concerns can underlie sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, general health perturbations can lead to male infertility and/or sexual dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction and male infertility are considered proxies for general health, the former underlying cardiovascular disorders and the latter cancerous and noncancerous conditions. The concept that erectile dysfunction in infertile men might be an early marker of poor general health is emerging. Finally, medications used for general health problems can cause sperm abnormalities and sexual dysfunction. The treatment of some causes of male infertility might improve semen quality and reverse infertility-related sexual dysfunction. In infertile men, an investigation of sexual, general, and psychological health status is advisable to improve reproductive problems and general health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lotti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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17
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Dabbous Z, Atkin SL. Hyperprolactinaemia in male infertility: Clinical case scenarios. Arab J Urol 2017; 16:44-52. [PMID: 29713535 PMCID: PMC5922222 DOI: 10.1016/j.aju.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the evaluation, treatment and impact of hyperprolactinaemia on male infertility and testicular function, as hyperprolactinaemia is commonly detected during the evaluation of infertile men. Methods A literature search was performed using MEDLINE/PubMed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify all studies exploring hyperprolactinaemia in male infertility. Results Elevated levels of serum prolactin have a detrimental effect on male reproduction through inhibition of the pulsatile release of gonadotrophins from the anterior pituitary gland, and a direct effect on spermatogenesis. Treatment of confirmed hyperprolactinaemia with dopamine agonists leads to significant improvements in both semen parameters and hormone levels. Conclusion Hyperprolactinaemia, both directly and indirectly, has a negative effect on sperm production, and its detection and management in men seeking fertility is mandatory.
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Mieusset R, Walschaerts M, Isus F, Almont T, Daudin M, Hamdi SM. Diagnosis of Partial Retrograde Ejaculation in Non-Azoospermic Infertile Men with Low Semen Volume. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0168742. [PMID: 28060836 PMCID: PMC5218555 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In non-azoospermic patients with low semen volume (LSV), looking for partial retrograde ejaculation (PRE) by searching sperm in the postejaculatory urine (PEU) is required. The use of a retro-ejaculatory index (R-ratio) was suggested to define PRE, but none of the studies indicated a specific threshold above which PRE must be considered. Our objective was to propose a threshold value for the R-ratio as indicative of PRE in patients with LSV selected to be devoid of any known causes or risk factors for retrograde ejaculation or LSV. Among our data base (2000–2009) including 632 patients with PEU, 245 male patients from infertile couples who had had a first semen analysis with LSV (< 2mL) and a second semen analysis associated with PEU, were selected on the previous criteria. A prospective control group was randomly constituted (2007–2008) of 162 first consulting male patients from infertile couples, with a normal semen volume (≥ 2mL) on a first semen analysis and who accepted to collect PEU with their usual second semen analysis, selected on the previous criteria. To define an R-ratio threshold indicative of PRE, we used a ROC curve analysis and a regression tree based on a classification and regression tree (CART) algorithm. Of the 245 LSV patients, 146 still presented low semen volume (< 2 mL) on the second semen analysis. From the use of the CART algorithm, two low (1.5% and 2.8%) and two high R-values (7.1% and 8.3%) were defined, according to the lower reference limit for semen volume of 2.0 mL (WHO 1999) or 1.5 mL (WHO 2010) respectively. As only one or no patient with normal semen volume was observed above the two high R-values, we suggest an R-value higher than the range of [7.1–8.3]% as indicative of PRE until confirmation by a prospective multicenter study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Mieusset
- Université Toulouse III—Paul Sabatier, Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine (Human Fertility Research Group), Toulouse, France
- Andrologie—Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Marie Walschaerts
- Université Toulouse III—Paul Sabatier, Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine (Human Fertility Research Group), Toulouse, France
| | - François Isus
- Université Toulouse III—Paul Sabatier, Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine (Human Fertility Research Group), Toulouse, France
- Andrologie—Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Thierry Almont
- Université Toulouse III—Paul Sabatier, Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine (Human Fertility Research Group), Toulouse, France
| | - Myriam Daudin
- Université Toulouse III—Paul Sabatier, Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine (Human Fertility Research Group), Toulouse, France
- Explorations biologiques—Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Safouane M. Hamdi
- Université Toulouse III—Paul Sabatier, Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine (Human Fertility Research Group), Toulouse, France
- * E-mail:
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Okolo KO, Siminialayi IM, Orisakwe OE. Protective Effects of Pleurotus tuber-regium on Carbon- Tetrachloride Induced Testicular Injury in Sprague Dawley Rats. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:480. [PMID: 28018218 PMCID: PMC5156682 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The high rate of male infertility and the meager resources to manage same in sub Saharan Africa have necessitated the search for cost effective and available alternatives. Mushrooms have been used traditionally in folk medicine and as nutraceuticals. This study has investigated the effect of the wild mushroom Pleurotus tuber-regium on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) deleterious effects on the reproductive system of male rats. Thirty six rats were divided into six groups of six animals each. Group I (negative control) received 10 ml/kg olive oil intraperitoneal weekly in addition to feed and water ad libitum. Group II (positive control) received CCl4 10 ml/kg (30% in Olive oil) weekly. Group III, IV, and V received 100 mg, 20 0mg, and 500 mg P. tuber-regium (33.3% in feed) daily in addition to 10 ml/kg CCl4 weekly. Group VI received 500 mg P. tuber-regium (33.3% in feed) daily. After 4 weeks, sperm motility, epididymal count and vitality were determined. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA), testosterone, Luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin and oestradiol were estimated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Histopathologic examinations of the testis were carried out. Carbon tetrachloride significantly reduced the sperm motility (54.33 ± 3.79%), epididymal count (28.73 ± 2.86 × 106/ml, vitality (4.96 ± 0.62), LH (0.88 ± 0.14), FSH (2.04 ± 0.33), and Testosterone (2.02 ± 0.24) when compared with control (89.33 ± 9.01), 91.91 ± 1.92 × 106/ml, 13.12 ± 0.19, 2.74 ± 0.32, 3.64 ± 0.62, and 4.16 ± 0.23, respectively, which were reversed by P. tuber-regium administration. Co-administration of P. tuber-regium plus CCl4 significantly reduced MDA level. P. tuber-regium showed dose dependent ameliorative activity against CCl4 deleterious action on the testis and may be beneficial in the management of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth O. Okolo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Madonna UniversityPort Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Iyeopu M. Siminialayi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Port HarcourtPort Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Orish E. Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port HarcourtPort Harcourt, Nigeria
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Yuruk E, Pastuszak AW, Suggs JM, Colakerol A, Serefoglu EC. The association between seminal vesicle size and duration of abstinence from ejaculation. Andrologia 2016; 49. [PMID: 27660049 DOI: 10.1111/and.12707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
There are few data describing the relationship between seminal vesicle (SV) size and duration of abstinence between ejaculations. This study evaluates the association between SV size and duration of abstinence from ejaculation using pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Sexually active men 18-68 years old who underwent pelvic MRI for various medical indications were included. The date of last ejaculation was recorded, and the cross-sectional areas of the right and left seminal vesicles were calculated separately using mediolateral and anteroposterior measurements on T2-weighted MRI images. The association between SV area and duration of abstinence between ejaculations was determined via linear regression analysis. The study cohort consisted of 104 men with a mean age of 46.45 ± 11.4 (range 18-68) years old. Mean right and left SV cross-sectional areas were 744.1 ± 351.1 (range: 149.9-1794.7) mm2 and 727.6 ± 359.2 (range 171.4-2248.4) mm2 respectively. The mean duration of abstinence between ejaculations in the cohort was 3.6 ± 2.6 (range 1-15) days. Although no correlation between age and SV area was observed (r = .007, p = .947), linear regression analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between SV area and the duration of abstinence from ejaculation (r = .372, p = .0001). SV cross-sectional area increases with duration of abstinence from ejaculation and can be assessed using MRI. The use of SV size estimation may be applicable in diagnosis, risk stratification and treatment of urological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Yuruk
- Bagcilar Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - A W Pastuszak
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Division of Male Reproductive Medicine, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J M Suggs
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A Colakerol
- Bagcilar Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - E C Serefoglu
- Bagcilar Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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Current therapies for premature ejaculation. Drug Discov Today 2016; 21:1147-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Lotti F, Maseroli E, Fralassi N, Degl'Innocenti S, Boni L, Baldi E, Maggi M. Is thyroid hormones evaluation of clinical value in the work-up of males of infertile couples? Hum Reprod 2016; 31:518-29. [PMID: 26759137 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is thyroid hormones (TH) evaluation of clinical value in the work-up of males of infertile couples? STUDY ANSWER Our results suggest that TH evaluation is not mandatory in the work-up of male infertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A few previous studies performed on a limited series of subjects reported a negative impact of hyper- and hypo-thyroidism on semen volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility and normal morphology. No previous study has systematically evaluated associations between TH variation, semen parameters and ultrasound characteristics of the male genital tract. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE AND DURATION Cross-sectional analysis of a consecutive series of 172 subjects seeking medical care for couple infertility from September 2010 to November 2014. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Of the entire cohort, 163 men (age 38.9 ± 8.0 years) free of genetic abnormalities were studied. All subjects underwent a complete andrological and physical examination, biochemical and hormonal assessment, scrotal and transrectal colour-Doppler ultrasound (CDUS) and semen analysis (including seminal interleukin 8 levels, sIL-8) evaluation within the same day. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among the patients studied, 145 (88.9%) showed euthyroidism, 6 (3.7%) subclinical hyper- and 12 (7.4%) subclinical hypo-thyroidism. No subjects showed overt hyper- or hypo-thyroidism. At univariate analysis, no associations among thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) or TH levels and sperm parameters were observed. Conversely, we observed positive associations among free triiodothyronine (fT3) and free thyroxine (fT4) levels, ejaculate volume and seminal fructose levels. In a multivariate model, after adjusting for confounders such as age, body mass index, smoking habit, sexual abstinence, calculated free testosterone, prolactin and sIL-8 levels, only the associations found for fT3 levels were confirmed. When CDUS features were investigated, using the same multivariate model, we found positive associations between fT3 levels and seminal vesicles (SV) volume, both before and after ejaculation (adj. r = 0.354 and adj. r = 0.318, both P < 0.0001), as well as with SV emptying (ΔSV volume; adj. r = 0.346, P < 0.0001) and echo-texture inhomogeneity. In addition, after adjusting for confounders, negative associations between fT4 levels and epididymal body and tail diameters were found. No significant associations between TSH or TH levels and CDUS features of other organs of the male genital tract, including testis and prostate, were found. Finally, when the features of subjects with euthyroidism, subclinical hypo- and hyper-thyroidism were compared, no significant differences in seminal or hormonal parameters were found. Conversely, evaluating CDUS parameters, subjects with subclinical hyperthyroidism showed a higher difference between the SV longitudinal diameters measured before and after ejaculation when compared with that of subclinical hypothyroid men, even after adjusting for confounders (P < 0.007). All the other male genital tract CDUS characteristics did not differ among groups. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION First, the number of patients investigated is relatively small and those with (subclinical) thyroid dysfunctions are an even smaller number; hence, it is therefore difficult to draw firm conclusions. Moreover, the present results are derived from patients consulting an Italian Andrology Clinic for couple infertility, and could have different characteristics from the male general population or from those males consulting general practitioners for reasons other than couple infertility. Finally, due to the cross-sectional nature of the study, neither a causality hypothesis nor mechanistic models can be inferred. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Although no associations between TH and sperm parameters were observed, present data support a positive effect of TH on SV size and a permissive role on the ejaculatory machinery, likely through an action on SV and epididymal contractility. This is the first study reporting such evidence. However, in contrast with the view that TH assessment is important for female fertility, our results do not support a systematic evaluation of thyroid function in males of infertile couples. How TH abnormalities impact male fertility needs to be addressed by further studies. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS No funding was received for the study. None of the authors have any conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Lotti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - E Maseroli
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - N Fralassi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - S Degl'Innocenti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - L Boni
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Toscano Tumori/AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - E Baldi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
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Li CJ, Yeh CY, Chen RY, Tzeng CR, Han BC, Chien LC. Biomonitoring of blood heavy metals and reproductive hormone level related to low semen quality. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2015; 300:815-822. [PMID: 26340548 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2015.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive hormones and exposure to environmental metals are correlated with low-quality semen. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of heavy metals and reproductive hormones in the blood in addition to other relevant factors to clarify the relationship between these factors and semen quality. We recruited 154 male participants from a reproductive medical center. All participants were provided with a questionnaire on lifestyle implementation. The levels of metals in the blood were determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The levels of hormones in the blood were determined using an automatic gamma counter. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to predict the effects of statistically significant risk factors on semen quality by adjusting for relevant confounders and modifiers. After adjusting for the age, education level, and related factors in the multiple logistic regression analyses, we observed that the increased blood Pb levels were significantly and positively associated with low semen quality. High blood Pb levels (>50 μg/L) had an 11-fold risk of low semen quality. Our results suggest that progressive motility sperm may be a sensitive indicator of the semen quality among all the semen parameters in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Jen Li
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Ying Yeh
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Ruey-Yu Chen
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chii-Ruey Tzeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, No. 252, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Bor-Cheng Han
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Ling-Chu Chien
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110, Taiwan.
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Optimization of curcumin loaded vaginal in-situ hydrogel by box-behnken statistical design for contraception. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) has been long deemed as a hormone involved only in female reproduction. However, PRL is a surprising hormone and, since its identification in the 1970s, its attributed functions have greatly increased. However, its specific role in male health is still widely unknown. Recently, low PRL has been associated with reduced ejaculate and seminal vesicle volume in infertile subjects. In addition, in men consulting for sexual dysfunction, hypoprolactinemia has been associated with erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation, findings further confirmed in the general European population and infertile men. Several metabolic derangements, recapitulating metabolic syndrome, have also been associated with low PRL both in men with sexual dysfunction and from the general European population. In men with sexual dysfunction, followed-up for more than 4 years, low PRL was identified as an independent predictor of the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events. Finally, an association with anxiety or depressive symptoms has been found in men with sexual dysfunction and from the general European population. While a direct role for impaired PRL function in the pathogenesis of these reproductive, sexual, metabolic and psychological disorders is conceivable, the possibility that low PRL is a mirror of an increased dopaminergic or a decreased serotonergic tone cannot be ruled-out. Hyperactivity of the dopaminergic system can explain only a few of the aforementioned findings, whereas a hypo-serotonergic tone fits well with the clinical features associated with low PRL, and there is significant evidence supporting the hypothesis that PRL could be a mirror of serotonin in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Rastrelli
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
- Endocrinology Section, Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 2, 40133, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
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Lei B, Lv D, Zhou X, Zhang S, Shu F, Ding Y, Zhang Y, Mao X. Biochemical hormone parameters in seminal and blood plasma samples correlate with histopathologic properties of testicular biopsy in azoospermic patients. Urology 2015; 85:1074-1078. [PMID: 25917731 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2015.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Revised: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between histopathologic patterns of testicular biopsy and biochemical semen and blood plasma parameters, including neutral a-glucosidase (NAG), fructose, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and prolactin (PRL) in patients with azoospermia. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 471 azoospermic patients with definitive pathologic diagnosis were enrolled in this study. Six biochemical parameters, including 2 seminal (NAG and fructose) and 4 blood (FSH, LH, testosterone, and PRL) plasma markers, were analyzed. RESULTS NAG, fructose, FSH, and LH levels were significantly higher in patients with Sertoli-cell-only (SCO) syndrome and severe hypospermatogenesis than in those with normal spermatogenesis or mild hypospermatogenesis (P <.05). In addition, NAG levels positively correlated with fructose amounts in azoospermic patients (P <.05); a significant correlation between FSH and LH levels was also observed in azoospermic patients. Furthermore, PRL levels were higher in SCO syndrome patients compared with subjects showing normal spermatogenesis and the levels positively correlated with NAG, FSH, and LH amounts. However, testosterone levels in SCO syndrome patients were significantly reduced compared with individuals having normal spermatogenesis. CONCLUSION The levels of biochemical parameters in seminal (NAG and fructose) and blood (FSH, LH, testosterone, and PRL) plasma samples correlate with the histologic diagnosis in azoospermic patients, providing potential benefits in predicting the pathologic diagnosis of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Lei
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Daojun Lv
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Xuming Zhou
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Shoubo Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Centre, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Forces, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Fangpeng Shu
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yanqing Ding
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC
| | - Xiangming Mao
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China; Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P. R. China.
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Tian JC, Xia JY, Jiang J, Jiang R, He YZ, Lin H. Effect of androgen deprivation on the expression of aquaporins in rat prostate and seminal vesicles. Andrologia 2015; 48:268-76. [PMID: 26011465 DOI: 10.1111/and.12442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J. C. Tian
- Affiliated Hospital; Luzhou Medical College; Luzhou Sichuan China
| | - J. Y. Xia
- Affiliated Hospital; Luzhou Medical College; Luzhou Sichuan China
| | - J. Jiang
- Affiliated Hospital; Luzhou Medical College; Luzhou Sichuan China
| | - R. Jiang
- Affiliated Hospital; Luzhou Medical College; Luzhou Sichuan China
| | - Y. Z. He
- Affiliated Hospital; Luzhou Medical College; Luzhou Sichuan China
| | - H. Lin
- Department of Surgery; University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston; Houston TX USA
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Gur S, Sikka SC. The characterization, current medications, and promising therapeutics targets for premature ejaculation. Andrology 2015; 3:424-42. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Gur
- Department of Pharmacology; School of Pharmacy; Ankara University; Ankara Turkey
- Department of Urology; Tulane University Health Sciences Center; New Orleans LA USA
| | - S. C. Sikka
- Department of Urology; Tulane University Health Sciences Center; New Orleans LA USA
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Pratt S, Stowe H, Whitlock B, Strickland L, Miller M, Calcatera S, Dimmick M, Aiken G, Schrick F, Long N, Duckett S, Andrae J. Bulls grazing Kentucky 31 tall fescue exhibit impaired growth, semen quality, and decreased semen freezing potential. Theriogenology 2015; 83:408-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Revised: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Lotti F, Corona G, Vitale P, Maseroli E, Rossi M, Fino MG, Maggi M. Current smoking is associated with lower seminal vesicles and ejaculate volume, despite higher testosterone levels, in male subjects of infertile couples. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:590-602. [PMID: 25567620 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the impact of smoking behaviour on seminal, hormonal and male genital tract ultrasound parameters in subjects seeking medical care for couple infertility? STUDY ANSWER In males of infertile couples, current smokers (CS), when compared with non-smokers, show lower ejaculate and ultrasound-derived seminal vesicles (SV) volume, despite higher testosterone levels. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Data on the effects of smoking on male fertility are conflicting. A correlation between smoking and reduced semen parameters has been reported, however, with a high heterogeneity among studies. An association between smoking behaviour and higher testosterone levels in men has been described in several, but not all, the previous studies. No study has systematically evaluated the impact of smoking on the male genital tract ultrasound characteristics. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE AND DURATION Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of a consecutive series of 426 subjects seeking medical care for couple infertility from January 2010 to July 2013. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS From the entire cohort, 394 men (age 36.0 ± 8.0 years) free of genetic abnormalities were selected. All subjects underwent a complete andrological and physical examination, biochemical and hormonal assessment, scrotal and transrectal colour-Doppler ultrasound and semen analysis (including seminal interleukin-8 levels, sIL-8) within the same day. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among the patients evaluated, 229 were never smokers (NS), 56 past smokers (PS) and 109 CS. When CS were compared with the rest of the sample (non-smokers, NS + PS), in a multivariate model (analysis of covariance, ANCOVA) adjusted for age, lifestyle (including alcohol, cannabis and physical activity), BMI and sex hormone-binding globulin, significantly higher androgen (total testosterone, P = 0.001; calculated free testosterone, P < 0.005) and lower FSH (P < 0.05) levels were observed in CS. However, when total testosterone was also included in the multivariate model as a further covariate, the difference in FSH levels was not confirmed. In a similar model, a lower ejaculate volume (P < 0.01) and a higher prevalence of normal sperm morphology (P < 0.02) were also detected in CS in comparison with the rest of the sample. However, when total testosterone was also included in the multivariate model as a further covariate, only the difference in ejaculate volume between CS and non-smokers was confirmed (-0.61 ± 0.23 ml, P < 0.01). Finally, CS showed lower total SV volume, before and after ejaculation, even after adjusting for confounders (P = 0.02 and <0.01, respectively). Similar results were observed when the reported number of cigarettes smoked or the number of pack-years was considered separately. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The present results are derived from patients consulting an Andrology Clinic for couple infertility, who could have different characteristics from the general male population or males consulting general practitioners for reasons other than couple infertility. In addition, we did not have a true control group composed of age-matched, apparently healthy, fertile men, and therefore true normative data of sonographic parameters cannot be inferred. Due to the cross-sectional nature of our study, neither a causality hypothesis nor mechanistic models can be drawn. Finally, this is a retrospective study, and further prospective studies are required. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We report an apparent paradox in CS: lower SV volume despite higher testosterone levels. Our data suggest that smoking may negatively affect SV volume in an independent manner, as the difference between CS and non-smokers retained significance after adjusting for confounders including testosterone. This is the first study reporting such ultrasound evidence. How this new smoking-related alteration, along with low semen volume, impacts male fertility needs to be addressed by further studies. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS No funding was received for the study. None of the authors have any conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Lotti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - P Vitale
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - E Maseroli
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - M Rossi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - M G Fino
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
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32
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Lotti F, Maggi M. Ultrasound of the male genital tract in relation to male reproductive health. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 21:56-83. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Zaveri T, Hayes JE, Ziegler GR. Release of tenofovir from carrageenan-based vaginal suppositories. Pharmaceutics 2014; 6:366-77. [PMID: 24999606 PMCID: PMC4190525 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics6030366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Revised: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbicides are an active area of research for HIV prevention, being developed as a woman-initiated method of prevention during unprotected coitus. Along with safety and efficacy, assessing and improving compliance is a major area of research in microbicide development. We have produced microbicide prototypes in the form of semisoft vaginal suppositories prepared from carrageenan and conducted both qualitative and quantitative studies using these prototypes to determine the physical properties that drive acceptability and possibly adherence. In order to ensure that the suppositories function as effective drug delivery vehicles, we have conducted in vitro dissolution studies in water, vaginal simulant fluid (VSF) and semen simulant fluid (SSF) with suppositories loaded with the antiretroviral drug, tenofovir (TFV). TFV was released via diffusion and matrix erosion in water or by diffusion out of the matrix in VSF and SSF. Diffusion studies were conducted in two different volumes of VSF and SSF. The volume of VSF/SSF into which TFV diffused and the size of the suppositories determined the rate of diffusion from the suppositories. About 45%–50% of the encapsulated TFV diffused out of the suppositories within the first two hours, irrespective of suppository size, diffusion medium (VSF/SSF) and the volume of medium. Prior work indicates that a short waiting period between insertion and coitus is highly desired by women; present data suggest our microbicide prototypes have rapid initial release followed by a slow release curve over the first 24 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toral Zaveri
- Sensory Evaluation Center, the Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | - John E Hayes
- Sensory Evaluation Center, the Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | - Gregory R Ziegler
- Department of Food Science, College of Agricultural Sciences, the Pennsylvania State University, 341 Food Science Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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Lotti F, Corona G, Vignozzi L, Rossi M, Maseroli E, Cipriani S, Gacci M, Forti G, Maggi M. Metabolic syndrome and prostate abnormalities in male subjects of infertile couples. Asian J Androl 2014; 16:295-304. [PMID: 24435050 PMCID: PMC3955344 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.122341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Revised: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
No previous study has evaluated systematically the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and prostate-related symptoms and signs in young infertile men. We studied 171 (36.5 ± 8.3-years-old) males of infertile couples. MetS was defined based on the National Cholesterol Education Program Third Adult Treatment Panel. All men underwent hormonal (including total testosterone (TT) and insulin), seminal (including interleukin-8 (IL-8), seminal plasma IL-8 (sIL-8)), scrotal and transrectal ultrasound evaluations. Because we have previously assessed correlations between MetS and scrotal parameters in a larger cohort of infertile men, here, we focused on transrectal features. Prostate-related symptoms were assessed using the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Twenty-two subjects fulfilled MetS criteria. In an age-adjusted logistic ordinal model, insulin levels increased as a function of MetS components (Wald = 29.5, P < 0.0001) and showed an inverse correlation with TT (adjusted r = -0.359, P< 0.0001). No association between MetS and NIH-CPSI or IPSS scores was observed. In an age-, TT-, insulin-adjusted logistic ordinal model, an increase in number of MetS components correlated negatively with normal sperm morphology (Wald = 5.59, P< 0.02) and positively with sIL-8 levels (Wald = 4.32, P < 0.05), which is a marker of prostate inflammation, with prostate total and transitional zone volume assessed using ultrasound (Wald = 17.6 and 12.5, both P < 0.0001), with arterial peak systolic velocity (Wald = 9.57, P = 0.002), with texture nonhomogeneity (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.87 (1.05-3.33), P < 0.05), with calcification size (Wald = 3.11, P< 0.05), but not with parameters of seminal vesicle size or function. In conclusion, in males of infertile couples, MetS is positively associated with prostate enlargement, biochemical (sIL8) and ultrasound-derived signs of prostate inflammation but not with prostate-related symptoms, which suggests that MetS is a trigger for a subclinical, early-onset form of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lotti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Rossi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisa Maseroli
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sarah Cipriani
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mauro Gacci
- Department of Urology, Careggi Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianni Forti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Corona G, Vignozzi L, Rastrelli G, Lotti F, Cipriani S, Maggi M. Benign prostatic hyperplasia: a new metabolic disease of the aging male and its correlation with sexual dysfunctions. Int J Endocrinol 2014; 2014:329456. [PMID: 24688539 PMCID: PMC3943333 DOI: 10.1155/2014/329456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a well-recognized cluster of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors including obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycaemia, closely associated with an increased risk of forthcoming cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Emerging evidence indicates that benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and its related lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) represent other clinical conditions frequently observed in subjects with MetS. Several modifiable factors involved in MetS determinism, such as inadequate diet, lack of physical exercise, and smoking and drinking behaviours are emerging as main contributors to the development of BPH. The pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the connection between MetS and BPH have not been completely clarified. MetS and its components, hypogonadism, and prostate inflammation probably play an important role in inducing BPH/LUTS. Although historically considered as a "normal" consequence of the aging process, BPH/LUTS should now be faced proactively, as a preventable disorder of the elderly. Type of diet and level of physical activity are now considered important factors affecting prostate health in the aging male. However, whether physical exercise, weight loss, and modifications of dietary habit can really alter the natural history of BPH/LUTS remains to be determined. Further research is advisable to better clarify these points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Azienda Usl, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Sexual Medicine Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Rastrelli
- Sexual Medicine Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Lotti
- Sexual Medicine Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Sarah Cipriani
- Sexual Medicine Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
- *Mario Maggi:
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