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Male aging and hormones: the adrenal cortex
Journal of Endocrinological Investigation
|June 9, 2006
Summary
Aging males experience reduced DHEA secretion, leading to an increased cortisol/DHEAS ratio. Adrenocortical changes may explain age-related adrenal nodules.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Aging Research
- Male Reproductive Health
Background:
- The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis undergoes changes with aging, particularly in males, a phenomenon termed 'adrenopause'.
- Key hormonal shifts include a reduction in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) secretion, while adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol levels remain relatively stable, albeit with altered diurnal patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hormonal and morphological changes in the HPA axis of aging males.
- To explore the relationship between these changes and the increased prevalence of adrenal nodules in the elderly.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of HPA axis hormone levels (DHEA, ACTH, cortisol) and their diurnal fluctuations in aging males.
- Examination of adrenocortical morphology, including zona reticularis thickness and microhemorrhagic events.
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in DHEA secretion was observed in aging males.
- Cortisol exhibited blunted 24-h fluctuations and a tendency towards elevated evening/nighttime levels, particularly in individuals with dementia.
- The cortisol/DHEAS ratio was found to be higher in aging males.
- Adrenocortical morphology showed a decreased zona reticularis thickness and an increased incidence of microhemorrhages.
Conclusions:
- Age-related reductions in DHEA and altered cortisol dynamics characterize the HPA axis in aging males.
- Morphological changes in the adrenal cortex may contribute to the high frequency of incidentally discovered adrenal nodules in the elderly.
- These findings provide insights into the endocrinology of aging and the pathophysiology of adrenal incidentalomas.
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