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Testosterone and the prostate: implications for the treatment of hypogonadal men

Joshua D Holyoak1, E David Crawford, Randall B Meacham

  • 1Division of Urology, University of Missouri Health Sciences Center, Columbia, MO 65212, USA. holyoakj@health.missouri.edu

Current Urology Reports
|October 25, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) treatment with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be safe for men without prostate cancer. Careful monitoring for prostatic disease is essential during TRT.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Endocrinology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) affects aging men, necessitating research into testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
  • The relationship between testosterone and prostate diseases, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer, requires clarification for safe TRT administration.
  • Existing knowledge indicates testosterone supplementation can exacerbate active prostate cancer, while its reduction slows progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety of TRT in men diagnosed with LOH.
  • To determine if TRT can safely restore normal testosterone levels in men without prostate cancer.
  • To assess potential adverse effects of TRT on the prostate in this patient group.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent studies investigating TRT in men with LOH.
  • Analysis of data concerning prostate health in patients undergoing TRT.
  • Monitoring of patients for any signs of prostatic disease during testosterone supplementation.

Main Results:

  • TRT may restore serum testosterone to normal levels in men without prostate cancer.
  • Evidence suggests TRT may not cause significant adverse effects on the prostate in selected individuals.
  • Testosterone supplementation is known to worsen active prostate cancer.

Conclusions:

  • TRT may be a viable option for men with LOH, provided prostate cancer is ruled out.
  • Close monitoring for prostatic disease is crucial for patients receiving TRT.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the long-term effects of TRT on prostate health.

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