Hypogonadism in human immunodeficiency virus-positive men

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Virology
• Men's Health

Background:

• Life expectancy for individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has improved with combined antiretroviral therapy (cART).
• Testosterone's role in sexual function and overall well-being is increasingly significant for aging HIV-positive men.
• Androgen deficiency prevalence is higher in HIV-infected males compared to the general population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on androgens and HIV disease.
• To examine the prevalence and causes of androgen deficiency in HIV-infected males.
• To assess the impact of cART on hypogonadism rates.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted using terms like 'HIV', 'AIDS', 'testosterone', and 'androgens' from 1985 to 2011.
• Relevant articles identified through primary search references were also included.
• Literature review focused on reported prevalence, associated factors, and treatment studies.

Main Results:

• Androgen deficiency is more common in HIV-infected males, often linked to low luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone.
• The advent of cART may be associated with a decrease in hypogonadism rates.
• Identified causes of low testosterone include chronic illness, HIV, cART, infections, comorbidities, wasting, and aging.

Conclusions:

• Androgen deficiency is a significant concern in aging HIV-positive men.
• While cART may be improving hypogonadism rates, multiple factors contribute to low testosterone.
• Further standardized research on testosterone treatment in HIV-positive men is needed.