TLDR Accurate testosterone measurement and standardized lab practices are crucial for diagnosing and managing adult male hypogonadism.
The document provides a detailed examination of adult male hypogonadism, emphasizing the critical role of accurate testosterone (T) measurement and the need for standardized laboratory practices. It highlights the condition's prevalence, affecting 6-12% of the general male population and up to 40% of men with type 2 diabetes, and its association with increased mortality and cardiovascular disease. The review underscores the importance of considering secondary causes and recommends a comprehensive management approach, including lifestyle changes and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for symptomatic men with low T levels. The document also addresses the impact of COVID-19 on T levels and the need for precise laboratory methodologies to support clinical decisions. It calls for harmonized T reference intervals and treatment thresholds to improve patient outcomes and reduce clinical confusion.
39 citations
,
November 2021 in “Clinical Endocrinology” Testosterone replacement is recommended for men with low testosterone levels and symptoms of hypogonadism.
134 citations
,
April 2020 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Male pattern hair loss could hint at androgens affecting COVID-19 severity.
14 citations
,
January 2018 in “Advances in Clinical Chemistry” The document concludes that hormonal biomarkers are key for diagnosing hyperandrogenemia in women and hypogonadism in men.
31 citations
,
January 2017 in “Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology” Low testosterone and 5α-reductase inhibitors can harm men's metabolic and sexual health; testosterone therapy may help, but discussing 5α-RIs' side effects is important.
23 citations
,
August 2005 in “Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy” New treatments for low male hormones improved sexual function and mood but had unclear risks, especially for older men.
February 2023 in “IntechOpen eBooks” Testosterone replacement therapy helps manage deficiency and has various methods, but requires careful monitoring to avoid side effects.
17 citations
,
February 2019 in “Journal of Clinical Medicine” Testosterone replacement therapy should be used for men with low testosterone levels and symptoms of hypogonadism, after careful diagnosis and considering individual needs.