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Testosterone deficiency in men. Diagnosis and management
Carolyn A Allan1, Robert I McLachlan
1Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Victoria.
Australian Family Physician
|July 2, 2003
Summary
Testosterone deficiency (hypoandrogenism) is common in men but often overlooked. Endocrine testing is crucial for diagnosis and monitoring, with testosterone replacement effective for sexual health, mood, and physical function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Men's Health
Background:
- Testosterone deficiency (hypoandrogenism) is the most frequent hormonal deficiency in men.
- Clinical presentation can be subtle, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses.
Purpose of the Study:
- Provide an overview of hypoandrogenism presentation.
- Highlight the diagnostic role of endocrine laboratories.
- Outline treatment options and discuss age-related hypoandrogenism.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations.
- Emphasis on endocrine laboratory diagnostics.
- Analysis of placebo-controlled studies for age-related hypoandrogenism.
Main Results:
- Hypogonadism causes are documented in younger men; presentation can be nonspecific.
- Diagnosis in older men may be challenging, with underdiagnosis likely.
- Endocrine testing supports diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Testosterone replacement effectively restores sexual health and androgen-dependent functions.
- Treatment for symptomatic aging men with borderline hypoandrogenism remains controversial.
- Guidelines exist for diagnosis and management in younger and older men.