TLDR Low testosterone may indicate severe COVID-19 in men.
This study investigated the role of testosterone in COVID-19 severity among 48 male patients, finding that those with severe cases had significantly lower testosterone levels (1.4 ng/mL) compared to those with mild cases (3.5 ng/mL). Low testosterone was linked to hyperinflammatory syndrome, longer hospital stays, and increased need for intensive care, but not with mortality or viral shedding duration. The study suggested testosterone as a potential biomarker for severe COVID-19 due to its influence on the TMPRSS2 receptor and noted the prevalence of androgenetic alopecia among hospitalized patients. However, limitations included its small sample size and retrospective nature, indicating a need for further research.
41 citations
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February 2021 in “Cureus” Proxalutamide helps COVID-19 patients get rid of the virus faster and recover quicker.
119 citations
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May 2020 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Most COVID-19 patients in hospitals have androgenetic alopecia, more in men, suggesting a link between androgen sensitivity and severe COVID-19 symptoms.
18 citations
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July 2020 in “Basic and Clinical Andrology” Wait 3 months after COVID-19 before trying assisted reproduction and further research is needed on COVID-19's effects on male hormones and fertility.
17 citations
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May 2021 in “Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics” COVID-19 may harm male fertility and damage the reproductive system.
14 citations
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July 2021 in “Reviews in endocrine and metabolic disorders” SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, can affect all endocrine organs and systems, altering their function and potentially leading to disorders. Factors like diabetes and obesity increase infection risk and severity. Understanding these effects is key for effective treatment.
April 2022 in “International journal of respiratory and pulmonary medicine” People with lower levels of free testosterone tend to have worse COVID-19 outcomes.
68 citations
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May 2021 in “Endocrine” People with diabetes or obesity should manage their conditions carefully as they have a higher risk of severe COVID-19.
