Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026
09:33
A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology
Published on: February 7, 2015
The inverse relationship between thoracic aortic intima media thickness and testosterone level
Recep Demirbag1, Remzi Yilmaz, Abdullah Ulucay
1Harran University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Sanliurfa, Turkey. rdemirbag@yahoo.com
Endocrine Research
|January 26, 2006
Summary
Lower testosterone levels are linked to increased thoracic aortic atherosclerosis. This study found an independent relationship between testosterone and aortic intima media thickness, suggesting a potential role for testosterone in preventing aortic disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Atherosclerosis Research
Background:
- Testosterone is known to protect against coronary artery disease.
- Low testosterone levels are a risk factor for ischemic heart disease in men.
- The relationship between testosterone and thoracic aortic atherosclerosis severity was previously unreported.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between atherosclerotic thoracic aortic intima media thickness (TAIT) and serum testosterone levels.
- To determine if testosterone levels correlate with the extent of aortic atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Forty-two male patients without prior cardiovascular disease underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for TAIT evaluation.
- Serum testosterone levels were measured, alongside blood chemistry parameters.
- Correlation and linear regression analyses were employed to assess relationships.
Main Results:
- Testosterone levels demonstrated a significant negative correlation with TAIT (r = -0.765, p < 0.001).
- Testosterone levels also correlated with albumin, uric acid, HsCRP, fibrinogen, and white blood cells.
- Multiple linear regression identified testosterone and uric acid as independent predictors of TAIT.
Conclusions:
- A significant independent relationship exists between testosterone levels and thoracic aortic intima media thickness.
- Testosterone may play a protective role in the development of thoracic aortic atherosclerosis.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:26Atherosclerosis III: Management
Management of atherosclerosis involves an integrated strategy encompassing pharmacological treatment, surgical interventions, lifestyle changes, and nutrition therapy to address the multifactorial nature of the disease.Pharmacological TherapyA cornerstone of atherosclerosis management is the use of pharmacological agents. Statins, such as atorvastatin, are pivotal in inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that catalyzes an initial step in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This reduction in...