[Influence of androgens on cardiovascular system in men]

It is well known fact that incidence of morbidity and mortality due to coronary artery disease is higher in men than in women. For many years experimental and clinical studies have focussed on the role of androgens in cardiovascular pathology. The clinical implications of androgens' deficiency as well as the molecular mechanisms of their action have not been well established yet. However, the increasing number of evidences suggests that androgens may have beneficial effects on atherosclerosis. In this review we discuss the androgen metabolism, their effect on cardiovascular system and the relations with major risk factors of atherosclerosis.