Desired decision-making role and treatment satisfaction among trans people during medical transition: results from the ENIGI follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Shared decision making (SDM) is particularly important in transition-related medical interventions (TRMIs) given the nature of treatment and history of gatekeeping in transgender health care. Yet few studies have investigated trans people's desired decision-making role within TRMI and factors that influence these desires.

AIMS

The study investigated trans people's desired level of decision making during medical transition as well as possible sociodemographic predictors and correlations between decision-making desires and satisfaction with treatment.

METHODS

Data were collected from a clinical sample from 3 trans health care centers, as part of the larger ENIGI study. The data consisted of 568 trans individuals (60.2% assigned male at birth) 20 to 82 years of age (mean age = 38.58 years) who took part in the study 4 to 6 years after initial clinical contact. Binary logistic regressions were conducted to determine whether independent variables predicted group membership in decision-making role subgroups while a Spearman rank-order correlation was conducted to determine the relationship between desired decision-making involvement and satisfaction with care.

OUTCOMES

Main measures were desired decision-making role, satisfaction with treatment, age, education level, country of residence, treatment status, individual treatment progress score (ITPS), gender identity, and sex assigned at birth.

RESULTS

The vast majority of participants wanted to make medical decisions themselves. Age, education level, country of residence, treatment status, gender identity, and sex assigned at birth showed no significant effects in desired level of decision making, while the ITPS neared significance. Satisfaction with treatment was overall very high. For participants assigned male at birth, desire for a more active role in decision making was negatively correlated with satisfaction of labia surgery.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

A desired decision-making role cannot be predicted based on the trans person's sociodemographic characteristics. More involvement from health professionals addressing medical information and education obligations may be needed when offering surgical construction of labia to individuals assigned male at birth.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

This study builds on the few existing analyses of desired levels of decision-making role among trans people during transition. It is the first to investigate the role of education level and treatment status/ITPS on the desire of decision-making role. Gender identity and influence of nonbinary identity were not investigated for treatment satisfaction as these items were presented based on sex assigned at birth.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights that trans people in 3 European trans health care centers during medical transition desire a more active role in decision making. Satisfaction with treatment received was overall very high.

Pleasure please! Sexual pleasure and influencing factors in transgender persons: An ENIGI follow-up study

Background: While the importance of sexual pleasure for physical and mental health becomes increasingly evident, research on sexual pleasure in transgender persons is lacking. Recently, the first version of the Amsterdam Sexual Pleasure Index (ASPI Vol. 0.1) was validated in cisgender persons. This questionnaire aims to assess the tendency to experience sexual pleasure independent of gender, sexual orientation or anatomy. Aim: The aims of this study were threefold. First, to perform exploratory scale validation analyses of the ASPI in transgender persons. Secondly, to compare transgender sexual pleasure scores to reference data in cisgender persons. Finally, to identify factors that are associated with sexual pleasure. Methods: In a follow-up study conducted within the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI), online questionnaires were distributed to persons who had a first clinical contact at gender clinics in Amsterdam, Ghent or Hamburg four to six years earlier. Internal consistency of the ASPI was assessed by calculating McDonald's omega (ω_t). ASPI scores were compared to scores from the cisgender population using a one sample t-test, and linear regressions were conducted to study associations with clinical characteristics, psychological wellbeing, body satisfaction and self-reported happiness. Results: In total, 325 persons filled out the ASPI. The ASPI showed excellent internal consistency (ω_t, all: 0.97; transfeminine: 0.97, transmasculine: 0.97). Compared to data from cisgender persons, transgender participants had significantly lower total ASPI scores (i.e., lower sexual pleasure; transgender vs. cisgender, mean(SD): 4.13(0.94) vs. 4.71(0.61)). Lower age, current happiness and genital body satisfaction were associated with a higher tendency to experience sexual pleasure. Conclusion & discussion: The ASPI can be used to assess the tendency to experience sexual pleasure and associated factors in transgender persons. Future studies are needed to understand interplaying biopsychosocial factors that promote sexual pleasure and hence transgender sexual health and wellbeing.

It Might Take Time: A Study on the Evolution of Quality of Life in Individuals With Gender Incongruence During Gender-Affirming Care

INTRODUCTION

The distress caused by gender incongruence has been shown to be reduced with gender-affirming care. The current study follows a cohort of patients that requested gender-affirming care at Ghent University Hospital and examines the outcome of the procedures.

METHODS

The prospective design with 4 assessment times allows the study to assess the evolution of self-reported quality of life (QoL) and gender incongruence throughout a medical transition process. All the participants (N = 119) received hormone therapy, 52% underwent a separate gonadectomy (N = 62), and 41% vaginoplasty or phalloplasty (N = 49).

RESULTS

The results suggest that gender incongruence improves after surgery. QoL has slightly different trends for the different gender groups: compared to people who were assigned male at birth (AMAB), people who were assigned female at birth (AFAB) report lower QoL after gonadectomy. Meeting other transgender people facilitate QoL after starting hormone therapy. A higher number of friends after genital surgery are predictive of a better QoL.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

These results may be useful for clinicians working with transgender patients, as they provide information collected assessing patients soon after surgery and may raise awareness regarding the specific clinical attention that postsurgery patients need.

CONCLUSIONS

QoL can be compromised after the invasive surgery, while gender incongruence is alleviated throughout the transition. Our results should be confirmed with other prospective study designs that include a longer follow-up period. Pavanello Decaro S, Van Gils S, Van Hoorde B, et al. It Might Take Time: A Study on the Evolution of Quality of Life in Individuals With Gender Incongruence During Gender-Affirming Care. J Sex Med 2021;18:2045-2055.

Aftercare Needs Following Gender-Affirming Surgeries: Findings From the ENIGI Multicenter European Follow-Up Study

BACKGROUND

While much emphasis has been put on the evaluation of gender-affirming surgery (GAS) approaches and their effectiveness, little is known about the health care needs after completion of these interventions.

AIM

To assess post-GAS aftercare needs using a mixed-method approach and relate these to participant characteristics.

METHODS

As part of the ENIGI follow-up study, data was collected 5 years after first contact for gender-affirming treatments in 3 large European clinics. For the current analyses, only participants that had received GAS were included. Data on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics was collected. Standard aftercare protocols were followed. The study focused on participants' aftercare experiences. Participants rated whether they (had) experienced (predefined) aftercare needs and further elaborated in 2 open-ended questions. Frequencies of aftercare needs were analyzed and associated with participant characteristics via binary logistic regression. Answers to the open-ended questions were categorized through thematic analysis.

OUTCOMES

Aftercare needs transgender individuals (had) experienced after receiving GAS and the relation to sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

RESULTS

Of the 543 individuals that were invited for the ENIGI follow-up study, a total of 260 individuals were included (122 (trans) masculine, 119 (trans) feminine, 16 other, 3 missing). The most frequently mentioned aftercare need was (additional) assistance in surgical recovery (47%), followed by consultations with a mental health professional (36%) and physiotherapy for the pelvic floor (20%). The need for assistance in surgical recovery was associated with more psychological symptoms (OR=1.65), having undergone genital surgery (OR=2.55) and lower surgical satisfaction (OR=0.61). The need for consultation with a mental health professional was associated with more psychological symptoms and lower surgical satisfaction. The need for pelvic floor therapy was associated with more psychological symptoms as well as with having undergone genital surgery. Thematic analysis revealed 4 domains regarding aftercare optimization: provision of care, additional mental health care, improvement of organization of care and surgical technical care.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Deeper understanding of post-GAS aftercare needs and associated individual characteristics informs health care providers which gaps are experienced and therefore should be addressed in aftercare.

STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS

We provided first evidence on aftercare needs of transgender individuals after receiving GAS and associated these with participant characteristics in a large multicenter clinical cohort. No standardized data on aftercare received was collected, therefore the expressed aftercare needs cannot be compared with received aftercare.

CONCLUSION

These results underline a widely experienced desire for aftercare and specify the personalized needs it should entail. IJ de Brouwer, E Elaut, I Becker-Hebly et al. Aftercare Needs Following Gender-Affirming Surgeries: Findings From the ENIGI Multicenter European Follow-Up Study. J Sex Med 2021;18:1921-1932.

Experienced barriers of care within European treatment seeking transgender individuals: A multicenter ENIGI follow-up study

Objectives: To evaluate the experienced barriers of care for treatment-seeking trans individuals (TSTG) in three large European clinics. Methods: An online follow-up questionnaire was filled out by 307 TSTG individuals as part of the research protocol of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). Data was collected during follow-up in 2017/2018, around 5 years after participants had their initial clinical appointments in Ghent (Belgium), Amsterdam (the Netherlands), or Hamburg (Germany). Background characteristics, country, treatment characteristics and mental health were analyzed in relation to experienced barriers of care (EBOC, measured though agreement with statements). Results: The majority of participants reported various EBOC, oftentimes more than one. The most-frequently reported EBOCs pertained to the lack of family and friends' support (28.7%, n = 88) and travel time and costs (27.7%, n = 85), whereas around one-fifth felt hindered by treatment protocols. Also, a significant share expressed the feeling that they had to convince their provider they needed care and/or express their wish in such way to increase their likelihood of receiving care. A higher number of EBOCs reported was associated with more mental health problems, lower income and female gender. Conclusions: A substantial number of TSTG individuals within three European health care systems experiences EBOCs. EBOCs relate to both personal and systemic characteristics. These findings can help health care providers and centers to improve care. More research must be done to better understand the diversity among TSTG individuals and the corresponding barriers experienced. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/26895269.2021.1964409.

Oral and buccal abuse of transdermal opioids : an underdetected but potentially lethal practice

Objectives : Transdermal opioid patches (TOPs) are effective and well tolerated in patients with moderate to severe chronic pain syndromes. Their specific pharmacological properties, however, make them prone to abuse. The objective of this article is to describe the practice of oral and buccal abuse of TOPs and to discuss its clinical implications. Methods : We present the case of a patient admitted to the intensive care unit after oral abuse of transdermal opioid patches. Additionally, a narrative literature review on the topic is conducted, referring to Pubmed and Embase. Results : Oral or buccal TOP abuse is the most frequent method of TOP abuse, followed by intravenous injection, inhaling, and applying multiple patches. The main reasons for TOP abuse include drug addiction, suicidal behavior and self-medication. Oral ingestion is potentially lethal because of the high doses of fentanyl that are found in a single patch. Buccal abuse results in fast elevations of fentanyl serum concentrations, caused by transmucosal absorption of fentanyl, thus bypassing hepatic metabolism. During emergency management, naloxone should be administered in a continuous infusion, given the high risk of recurrence of symptoms. Evidence suggests that transdermal buprenorphine is safer in terms of abuse potential. This is explained by its ceiling effect for respiratory depression and its lower peak effects in supratherapeutic doses. Risk factors for abuse include history of substance use disorder, prior opioid overdose and mental illness. Patients with suspected opioid abuse should be referred to pain clinics, mental health specialists or drug addiction facilities. Conclusion : Oral or buccal abuse is the most reported non-dermal form of TOP abuse. When ingested or chewed, TOPs pose considerable health risks. It is critical to screen patients with chronic opioid therapy regularly for opioid use disorder. When confronted with patients at risk of abuse, close monitoring and referral to specialist care is advised.

OR27-05 Sexual Desire Changes in Transgender Individuals upon Initiation of Hormone Treatment; Results from the Longitudinal ENIGI Study

Introduction: Several steps in the transitioning process may affect sexual desire in transgender people. This is often underexposed by those providing gender affirming care. Testosterone therapy in transgender men (TM) generally leads to increasing frequency of desire, masturbation, sexual fantasies and arousal. Studies in transgender women (TW) are inconclusive: some report an increase in the prevalence of hypoactive sexual desire after initiation of hormone therapy, whereas others have shown a positive impact of hormonal therapy on sexual quality of life. The current study prospectively assesses sexual desire during the first three years of hormonal therapy (HT) in transgender people. Methods: This prospective cohort study was part of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). Sexual desire was prospectively assessed in 766 participants (401 TW, 364 TM) by Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI) during a three-year follow-up period, starting at the initiation of hormone treatment (HT). SDI scores were analyzed as total, dyadic and solitary SDI scores. At baseline, psychological questionnaires were administered. Sex steroids were measured at each follow-up visit. Data were analyzed cross-sectionally and prospectively. Results: In TW, total, dyadic and solitary SDI scores decreased during the first three months of HT. However, after 36 months, total and dyadic SDI scores were higher than baseline scores. Solitary scores after 36 months were comparable to baseline scores. In TM, total, dyadic and solitary SDI scores increased over the first three months, remaining stable thereafter. However, total and dyadic SDI scores after thirty-six months were comparable to baseline scores, whereas solitary scores remained higher than baseline. Factors associated with a prospective increase in SDI scores included having undergone gonadectomy, no longer experiencing vaginal bleedings (in TM) or higher gender dysphoria levels at baseline (in TM only). Factors associated with higher cross-sectional SDI scores included being in a relationship, undergoing gonadectomy, no longer experiencing vaginal bleedings (TM), lower gender dysphoria scores (TW only) and lower body dysphoria scores (TW only). Conclusion: Gender affirming hormonal therapy induces short-term changes in sexual desire in transgender people. Over a longer period of time, a net increase in dyadic sexual desire in TW receiving feminizing HT was observed. Sexual desire scores comparable to baseline in TM receiving virilizing HT were found. We observed no correlation between sexual desire and absolute serum testosterone levels. However, other factors, including undergoing gonadectomy, persistence of vaginal bleedings (in TM) and psychological factors may influence sexual desire in transgender people.

Sexual Desire Changes in Transgender Individuals Upon Initiation of Hormone Treatment: Results From the Longitudinal European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence

INTRODUCTION

Several steps in the transitioning process may affect sexual desire in transgender people. This is often underexposed by those providing gender-affirming care.

AIM

To prospectively assess sexual desire during the first 3 years of hormonal therapy (HT) in transgender people.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study was part of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence. At baseline, different psychological questionnaires were administered. Sex steroids were measured at each follow-up visit. Data were analyzed cross-sectionally and prospectively.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Prospective analysis of total, dyadic (with another person), and solitary (with oneself) sexual desire in 766 participants (401 transgender women [TW], 364 transgender men [TM]) was carried out using the Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI) questionnaire during a 3-year follow-up period, starting at the initiation of HT. Other factors associated with prospective changes were assessed.

RESULTS

In TW, total, dyadic, and solitary SDI scores decreased during the first 3 months of HT. However, after 36 months, total and dyadic SDI scores were higher than baseline scores. Solitary scores after 36 months were comparable with baseline scores. In TM, total, dyadic, and solitary SDI scores increased over the first 3 months, remaining stable thereafter. However, total and dyadic SDI scores after 36 months were comparable with baseline scores, whereas solitary scores remained higher than baseline. Factors associated with a prospective increase in SDI scores included having undergone gonadectomy, no longer experiencing menstrual bleeding or higher gender dysphoria levels at baseline (in TM only).

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

This study offers clear data on the time course of sexual desire after starting HT and thereby helps to inform people who want to start HT. Transgender people can be informed that changes in sexual desire after initiating HT are temporary. Over a longer period of time, the current research does not suggest induction of hypoactive sexual disorder in TW or long-term increased sexual desire in TM.

STRENGTH & LIMITATIONS

Strengths include the prospective design of this large multicentric study, the well-defined cohort, controlling for HT, sex steroids, and other factors. Limitations include performing a data lock, the absence of an objective measure of sexual desire, and the timing of laboratory measurements.

CONCLUSION

Gender-affirming HT only induces short-term changes in sexual desire in transgender people. Over a longer period of time, a net increase in dyadic sexual desire in TW receiving feminizing HT and sexual desire scores comparable with baseline in TM receiving virilizing HT, were observed. Defreyne J, Elaut E, Kreukels B, et al. Sexual Desire Changes in Transgender Individuals Upon Initiation of Hormone Treatment: Results From the Longitudinal European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence Study. J Sex Med 2020;17:812-825.

[GHB abuse in a pregnant patient in clinical practice]

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a controlled substance that is often abused due to its euphoric, sexual and sedative effects. Both acute intoxication with and withdrawal from GHB are potentially lethal, and need to be treated in an in-patient environment. We report the case of a female patient who used GHB regularly during the first trimester of pregnancy. We subsequently describe available evidence on the impact of GHB on fetal development, and how existing guidelines for GHB detoxification differ in pregnant patients.

SAT-014 No Correlation between Serum Testosterone Levels and Aggression or Anger Intensity in Transgender People: Results from Five European Centres

AIM: Anger is a state of emotions ranging from irritation to intense rage. Aggression is the externalization of anger through destructive/punitive behaviour. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care, Edition 7 (SOC7) guidelines warn about aggression in transgender men (TM) on testosterone treatment. We aimed to assess whether aggression and anger intensity increase in TM and decrease in transgender women (TW) after initiation of gender affirming hormone therapy and to identify predictors for anger intensity in transgender people, including levels of sex steroids as well as psychological measurements. METHODS: Prospective changes in aggression were measured at baseline and after one year of gender affirming hormones in 155 transgender persons (64 TM, 91 TW), using the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems (IIP-32) factor ‘too aggressive’. State-level anger intensity was prospectively assessed in 898 participants (440 TM, 468 TW) by the STAXI-2 (State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2) State Anger (S-Anger) questionnaire during a three-year follow-up period, starting at the initiation of hormone treatment (testosterone in TM, oestrogens plus anti-androgens in TW). At baseline, psychological questionnaires were administered. Data were analysed cross-sectionally and prospectively. RESULTS: No prospective changes were reported in ‘too aggressive’ scores (after one year of hormone therapy) and S-Anger scores (over 3, 12 and 36 months of hormone therapy) in TM and TW. ‘Too aggressive’ scores were positively correlated to increasing anxiety scores in the entire study population and with lower support from friends in TW. At three, twelve and thirty-six months of gender affirming hormone therapy, anger intensity was not correlated to serum testosterone levels, although there was a correlation with various psychological measures after three and twelve months. TM experiencing menstrual spotting after three months had higher S-Anger scores compared to those without (median 26.5 [18.0 - 29.8] versus 15.0 [15.0 - 17.0], P=0.020). Changes in STAXI-2 S-Anger scores were not correlated to changes in serum testosterone levels after three, twelve and thirty-six months in TM or TW. CONCLUSIONS: Aggression and state-level anger intensity are associated with psychological and/or psychiatric vulnerability or the persistence of menses in TM, but not with exogenous testosterone therapy in TM or serum testosterone levels in both TM and TW.

No correlation between serum testosterone levels and state-level anger intensity in transgender people: Results from the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence

INTRODUCTION

Anger is a state of emotions ranging from irritation to intense rage. Aggression implies externalizing anger through destructive/punitive behaviour. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care, Edition 7 (SOC7) guidelines warn about aggression in transgender men (TM) on testosterone treatment. We aimed to assess whether anger intensity increases in TM and decreases in transgender women (TW) after initiation of gender affirming hormone therapy and to identify predictors for anger intensity in transgender people.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study was part of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). Anger intensity was prospectively assessed in 898 participants (440 TM, 468 TW) by STAXI-2 (State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2) State Anger (S-Anger) during a three-year follow-up period, starting at the initiation of hormone treatment. Data were analysed cross-sectionally and prospectively.

RESULTS

There was no change in STAXI-2 S-Anger scores. At three, twelve and thirty-six months of gender affirming hormone therapy, STAXI-2 S-Anger scores were not correlated to serum testosterone levels, although there was a correlation with various psychological measures after three and twelve months. TM experiencing menstrual spotting after three months had higher STAXI-2 S-Anger scores compared to those without (median 26.5 [18.0-29.8] versus 15.0 [15.0-17.0], P = 0.020). Changes in STAXI-2 S-Anger scores were not correlated to changes in serum testosterone levels after three, twelve and thirty-six months in TM or TW.

CONCLUSIONS

State-level anger intensity is associated with psychological and/or psychiatric vulnerability, but not exogenous testosterone therapy or serum testosterone levels in transgender people.

Behandlungserfahrungen und soziale Unterstützung bei Personen mit Geschlechtsinkongruenz/Geschlechtsdysphorie: Eine ENIGI 5-Jahres-Follow-Up-Studie in drei europäischen Ländern

Einleitung Geschlechtsdysphorie (GD) bezeichnet einen Leidensdruck, der sich aus der Inkongruenz zwischen körperlichen Geschlechtsmerkmalen und dem Erleben des eigenen Geschlechts ergeben kann (Geschlechtsinkongruenz, GI). Die vorliegende Arbeit beschäftigt sich mit dem Zusammenspiel von medizinischer Behandlung und sozialer Unterstützung, das bisher nur unzureichend im Langzeitverlauf untersucht wurde.

Material & Methoden Die vorgestellte Studie untersuchte n=117 Personen mit einem männlichen und n=52 mit einem weiblichen Zuweisungsgeschlecht, die sich wegen GI/GD in dem Zeitraum zwischen 2007 bis 2009 im Rahmen des European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI) an drei Spezialambulanzen in Belgien, der Niederlande und Deutschland gewandt hatten, und 4–6 Jahre nach der Erstvorstellung mittels eines Online-Fragebogens nachbefragt wurden. Mit Hilfe zweier hierarchischer Regressionsanalysen wurden der Einfluss des Geschlechts, des Behandlungsfortschrittes und der sozialen Unterstützung zum einen auf die psychische Belastung und zum anderen auf die Lebenszufriedenheit der Teilnehmenden untersucht.

Ergebnisse Im ersten Modell waren ein weibliches Zuweisungsgeschlecht und eine bessere soziale Unterstützung signifikante Prädiktoren für eine verringerte psychische Belastung. Außerdem waren im zweiten Modell der individuelle Behandlungsfortschritt und eine ausgeprägtere soziale Unterstützung statistisch signifikant für die Vorhersage einer erhöhten Lebenszufriedenheit.

Diskussion Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass über die körpermedizinische Behandlung hinaus die soziale Unterstützung eine wesentliche Rolle im Rahmen des geschlechtsangleichenden Prozesses spielt.

[The use of dexmedetomidine in extreme agitation]

In clinical practice antipsychotics, benzodiazepines and/or antihistamines are used to calm agitated patients. If agitation persists and patients have contraindications for these substances, then anesthetics, such as propofol, can also be used as well, to serve as a sedative. Our attention was drawn to a particular case in which dexmedetomidine was used as a sedative.<br/> AIM: To study the literature on the use of α2-agonists, such as dexmedetomidine, in the treatment of extreme agitation.<br/> METHOD: We reviewed the relevant scientific literature.<br/> RESULTS: α2-agonists, such as dexmedetomidine, are new anesthetic agents that have analgetic and sympatholytic effects without suppressing respiration. These agents are used frequently in intensive care because their sedative effect are short-lived and do not cause amnesia, sleep deprivation or cognitive disturbance. Excited delirium syndrome (eds) is a type of extreme agitation for which dexmedetomidine can be used.<br/> CONCLUSION: There may well be a place for dexmedetomidine in the treatment of extreme agitation when standard treatments have failed. Further research is needed in order to ascertain whether dexmedetomidine should play a role in such treatment.

Mental health and gender dysphoria: A review of the literature

Studies investigating the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among trans individuals have identified elevated rates of psychopathology. Research has also provided conflicting psychiatric outcomes following gender-confirming medical interventions. This review identifies 38 cross-sectional and longitudinal studies describing prevalence rates of psychiatric disorders and psychiatric outcomes, pre- and post-gender-confirming medical interventions, for people with gender dysphoria. It indicates that, although the levels of psychopathology and psychiatric disorders in trans people attending services at the time of assessment are higher than in the cis population, they do improve following gender-confirming medical intervention, in many cases reaching normative values. The main Axis I psychiatric disorders were found to be depression and anxiety disorder. Other major psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, were rare and were no more prevalent than in the general population. There was conflicting evidence regarding gender differences: some studies found higher psychopathology in trans women, while others found no differences between gender groups. Although many studies were methodologically weak, and included people at different stages of transition within the same cohort of patients, overall this review indicates that trans people attending transgender health-care services appear to have a higher risk of psychiatric morbidity (that improves following treatment), and thus confirms the vulnerability of this population.

A comparative study of screening instruments and biomarkers for the detection of cannabis use

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare the usefulness of 3 different screening instruments (questionnaires) for the detection of cannabis use (CU) with biological markers in blood and hair.

METHODS

Ninety-four students were recruited in October 2013. Participants filled out the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS), the CAGE-AID ("Cut down Annoyed Guilty Eye-opener"-Adapted to Include Drugs), and ProbCannabis-DT questionnaires concerning their possible CU. Blood and hair samples were taken and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Logistic regression (Nagelkerke R(2)) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed. THCCOOH (Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinoic acid) plasma of ≥5 ng/mL and THC (Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol) hair concentrations of ≥0.1 and ≥0.02 ng/mg were used as the gold standard for CU. The questionnaire results were compared with different concentration ranges for THCCOOH in plasma (<5, 5-75, and >75 ng/mL, indicating the intensity of use) and THC in hair (≥0.02 ng/mg, ≥0.1 ng/mg).

RESULTS

The Nagelkerke R(2) for comparing the SDS, CAGE-AID, and ProbCannabis-DT with THCCOOH in plasma was 0.350, 0.489, and 0.335, respectively. The area under the ROC curve (95% confidence interval) was 0.772 (0.662-0.882), 0.797 (0.710-0.884), and 0.769 (0.669-0.870), respectively. Corresponding sensitivity/specificity were 70%/84%, 100%/59%, and 87%/67%, respectively. These values were similar to those compared to a 0.02 ng/mg THC cutoff in hair.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate agreement was found between all questionnaires and biomarkers of CU. The CAGE-AID and probCannabis-DT questionnaires were very sensitive, but less specific. SDS was less sensitive, but more specific.

Psychiatric characteristics in transsexual individuals: multicentre study in four European countries

BACKGROUND

Research into the relationship between gender identity disorder and psychiatric problems has shown contradictory results.

AIMS

To investigate psychiatric problems in adults fulfilling DSM-IV-TR criteria for a diagnosis of gender identity disorder.

METHOD

Data were collected within the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview - Plus and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis II Disorders (n = 305).

RESULTS

In 38% of the individuals with gender identity disorder a current DSM-IV-TR Axis I diagnosis was found, mainly affective disorders and anxiety disorders. Furthermore, almost 70% had a current and lifetime diagnosis. All four countries showed a similar prevalence, except for affective and anxiety disorders, and no difference was found between individuals with early-onset and late-onset disorder. An Axis II diagnosis was found in 15% of all individuals with gender identity disorder, which is comparable to the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

People with gender identity disorder show more psychiatric problems than the general population; mostly affective and anxiety problems are found.

Bilateral non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy in a transsexual woman using excessive estrogen dosage

We present a case report on a 53-year-old transsexual woman who developed acute painless vision loss in both eyes during cross-sex hormone treatment. After 10 months of cross-sex hormone treatment, she experienced total vision loss of the right eye and, 6 months later, vision loss to 20/63 in the left eye. After a full ophthalmic exam, bilateral sequential non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NA-ION) was diagnosed. Extensive etiological work-up revealed no cardiac abnormalities or inherited blood-clotting disorders. A manifest self-administered overdose of transdermal estrogen treatment with serum estradiol levels of 5,765 pg/ml was possibly related to the sequential bilateral NA-ION resulting in nearly total vision loss in this transsexual woman.

Prevalence of cardiovascular disease and cancer during cross-sex hormone therapy in a large cohort of trans persons: a case-control study

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the short- and long-term cardiovascular- and cancer-related morbidities during cross-sex hormone therapy in a large sample of trans persons.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A specialist center cross-sectional study compared 214 trans women (male-to-female transsexual persons) and 138 trans men (female-to-male trans persons) with an age- and gender-matched control population (1-3 matching). The participants were on cross-sex hormone therapy for an average of 7.4 years. We assessed physical health and possible treatment-related adverse events using questionnaires.

RESULTS

Five percent of trans women experienced venous thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism during hormone therapy. Five of these adverse events occurred during the first year of treatment, while another three occurred during sex reassignment surgery. Trans women experienced more myocardial infarctions than the control women (P=0.001), but a similar proportion compared with control men. The prevalence of cerebrovascular disease (CVD) was higher in trans women than in the control men (P=0.03). The rates of myocardial infarction and CVD in trans men were similar to the control male and female subjects. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was higher in both trans men and women than in their respective controls, whereas the rates of cancer were similar compared with the control men and women.

CONCLUSION

Morbidity rate during cross-sex hormone therapy was relatively low, especially in trans men. We observed a higher prevalence of venous thrombosis, myocardial infarction, CVD, and type 2 diabetes in trans women than in the control population. Morbidity rates in trans men and controls were similar, with the exception of the increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes.

Gender identity disorder in twins: a review of the case report literature

INTRODUCTION

The etiology of gender identity disorder (GID) remains largely unknown. In recent literature, increased attention has been attributed to possible biological factors in addition to psychological variables.

AIM

To review the current literature on case studies of twins concordant or discordant for GID.

METHODS

A systematic, comprehensive literature review.

RESULTS

Of 23 monozygotic female and male twins, nine (39.1%) were concordant for GID; in contrast, none of the 21 same-sex dizygotic female and male twins were concordant for GID, a statistically significant difference (P=0.005). Of the seven opposite-sex twins, all were discordant for GID.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest a role for genetic factors in the development of GID.

Gender identity disorder in twins: a review of the case report literature

INTRODUCTION

The etiology of gender identity disorder (GID) remains largely unknown. In recent literature, increased attention has been attributed to possible biological factors in addition to psychological variables.

AIM

To review the current literature on case studies of twins concordant or discordant for GID.

METHODS

A systematic, comprehensive literature review.

RESULTS

Of 23 monozygotic female and male twins, nine (39.1%) were concordant for GID; in contrast, none of the 21 same-sex dizygotic female and male twins were concordant for GID, a statistically significant difference (P=0.005). Of the seven opposite-sex twins, all were discordant for GID.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest a role for genetic factors in the development of GID.

Penile reconstruction with the radial forearm flap: an update

BACKGROUND

Many methods and many free or pedicled flaps have been used in phalloplasty. None of these techniques is able to completely fulfill the well described goals in penile reconstruction. Still, the radial forearm glap is currently the most frequently used flap and thus universally considered the gold standard.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Since 1992, we have performed the largest series of 316 radial forearm phalloplasties to date performed by a single surgical team. From these extensive data we critically evaluate how this current supposed gold standard can meet the requirements of an ideal penile reconstruction.

RESULTS

We assessed outcome parameters such as number of procedures to achieve complete functional result, aesthetic outcome, tactile and erogenous sensation, voiding, donor site morbidity, scrotoplasty and sexual intercourse.

CONCLUSION

While currently no controlled randomized prospective studies are available to prove the radial forearm flap is truly the 'gold standard' in penile reconstruction, we believe that our retrospective data support the radial forearm phalloplasty as a very reliable technique for the creation of a normal looking penis and scrotum. While full functionality is achieved through a minimum of 2 procedures, the patients are always able to void standing, and in most cases to experience sexual satisfaction. The relative disadvantages of this technique are the residual scar on the forearm donor site, the rather high number of initial urinary fistulas, the potential for long-term urological complications and the need for a stiffener or erection prosthesis. From our experience, we strongly feel that a structured multi-disciplinary cooperation between the reconstructive-plastic surgeon and the urologist is an absolute requisite to obtain the best possible technical results.

Hypoactive sexual desire in transsexual women: prevalence and association with testosterone levels

OBJECTIVE

An unknown proportion of transsexual women (defined as post-operative male-to-female transsexuals on oestrogen replacement) experience hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). It has been suggested that the absence of ovarian androgen production together with oestrogen treatment-related increase in sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels could be leading to HSDD, due to low levels of biologically available testosterone. This study wishes to document the HSDD prevalence among transsexual women and the possible association to androgen levels.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Transsexual women (n=62) and a control group of ovulating women (n=30) participated in this study. Questionnaires measuring sexual desire (sexual desire inventory) and relationship and sexual satisfaction (Maudsley Marital Questionnaire) were completed. Serum levels of total testosterone, LH and SHBG were measured in blood samples obtained at random in transsexual women and in the early follicular phase in ovulating women.

RESULTS

The transsexual group had lower levels of total and calculated free testosterone (both P<0.001) than the ovulating women. HSDD was reported in 34% of the transsexual and 23% of the ovulating women (P=0.30). Both groups reported similar levels of sexual desire (P=0.97). For transsexual women, no significant correlation was found between sexual desire and total (P=0.64) or free testosterone (P=0.82). In ovulating women, these correlations were significant (P=0.006, resp. P=0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

HSDD is reported in one-third of transsexual women. This prevalence is not substantially different from controls, despite markedly lower (free) testosterone levels, which argues against a major role of testosterone in this specific group.

The female-to-male transsexual and his female partner versus the traditional couple: a comparison

In this explorative study, nine stable relationships between female-to-male transsexuals and their biologically female partners were compared to an equal number of "traditional" heterosexual couples. The aim was to investigate any differences between these two groups on three aspects: satisfaction about the partner relationship, sexual satisfaction, and partnership sex typing. Data do not show any significant differences in relational and sexual satisfaction between the transsexuals' female partner and the women in the "traditional" couples. In contrast, the female-to-male transsexuals and their female partners were found to have adopted a more pronounced sex-typed partner relationship than the "traditional" couples.

Prevalence and demography of transsexualism in Belgium

AIM

The Belgian medical world has acknowledged the diagnosis of transsexualism and accepted Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS) as one of the steps in the treatment of choice since 1985. This prevalence and demographic study analyses data on all Belgian individuals who have undergone SRS since that year.

METHODS

All (188) plastic surgeons as well as all gender teams (Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, and Liège) in Belgium were sent demographic questionnaires to be completed for each of their transsexual patients.

RESULTS

The results show an overall prevalence of 1:12,900 for male-to-female and 1:33,800 for female-to-male transsexuals in Belgium. In Wallonia (the French-speaking region of Belgium) the prevalence is significantly lower than in Flanders (the Dutch-speaking region) and in Brussels (the bilingual capital region). In the total Belgian population the male/female sex ratio is 2.43:1, again with a substantial difference between Wallonia on the one hand and Flanders on the other.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

While in Flanders and in Brussels the prevalence is comparable to that in other Western European countries, in Wallonia it is markedly lower. Transsexualism in Wallonia appears to be socially less acceptable: persons suffering from gender dysphoria in that part of Belgium encounter more problems accessing gender clinics and receiving treatment.