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The aging male--diagnosis and therapy of late-onset hypogonadism

Gerhard Schreiber1, Mirjana Ziemer

  • 1Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Clinic of Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany. gerhard.schreiber@derma.uni-jena.de

Journal Der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft = Journal of the German Society of Dermatology : JDDG
|January 26, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Testosterone decline in aging men affects multiple organs, including skin. While testosterone replacement therapy shows clinical benefits, its specific dermatologic effects require further investigation to assess risks and benefits.

Area of Science:

  • Andrology
  • Dermatology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Aging men experience a natural decline in plasma testosterone levels.
  • This hormonal change can lead to adverse effects on bone, body composition, muscle strength, cognition, mood, skin, and hair.
  • Managing these clinical features is crucial for andrologists and dermatologists.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of testosterone decline in aging men.
  • To explore the potential dermatologic effects of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
  • To highlight the need for further research into the benefits and risks of TRT for aging men's skin.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on aging, testosterone deficiency, and hormone replacement therapy.
  • Analysis of existing data on the systemic effects of testosterone.
  • Identification of research gaps concerning dermatologic outcomes of TRT.

Main Results:

  • Testosterone decline impacts various organ systems, including skin and hair.
  • TRT is indicated for late-onset hypogonadism, though not standardized.
  • Previous studies suggest positive clinical effects of TRT, but dermatologic effects remain uninvestigated.

Conclusions:

  • The dermatologic effects of TRT in aging men are not well-understood.
  • Further research is necessary to determine the specific benefits and risks of TRT on skin health in this population.
  • A comprehensive understanding is needed for optimal management of aging men's health.

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