[Association between the serum level of testosterone and other comorbidities in obstructive sleep apnea]

Testosterone seems to play a role in the pathophysiology of OSAS but the mechanisms are not yet well defined. Research of this relationship has focused on two main assumptions: first case support the emergence of OSAS or augmentation of OSAS severity in men treated with testosterone for symptomatic hypogonadism; the second hypothesis suggest that serum testosterone deficiency is due to hypoxia and microarousals generated by OSAS with direct impact on hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The correlation between sleep apnea and androgenic disorders should be considered in the light of the intervention of many other factors which can act as confounding factors: age, obesity and other associated pathologies (chronic lung disease, smoking status). Many studies conducted so far on this interrelation (sleep apnea, endocrine system) have ignored these factors. In most cases CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy revert low serum testosterone levels to normal levels. Depressive status and fatigue, as OSAS consequences associated with hypogonadism have been reported in the literature and may have clinically significant aspects due to summary effect, with notable improvement after CPAP therapy avoiding adverse effects of hormonal or antidepressant treatment. The clinical implications and major consequences of association between androgen dysfunction and sleep apnea syndrome require a correct management in the recognition and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome associated with comorbidities.