[Features of hyperandrogenism in men]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Andrology
• Men's Health

Background:

• Hyperandrogenism in women is extensively studied, yet its manifestations and clinical significance in men are less understood.
• Clinical hyperandrogenism in men can be associated with various health conditions, necessitating further characterization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the variations of physiological hyperandrogenism in men.
• To correlate hormonal profiles with clinical manifestations in men with hyperandrogenism.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study of 100 men with hyperandrogenism.
• Assessment included prostate and testicular volume, luteinizing hormone (LH), total testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), free testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
• Patients were categorized into four groups based on hormonal profiles for comparative analysis.

Main Results:

• Group 1 (high total testosterone and SHBG) showed larger prostate volume and age but less acne.
• Group 3 (high total testosterone and DHT) exhibited the most pronounced hyperandrogenism symptoms, including acne.
• Group 4 (high DHT) was primarily associated with alopecia, while Group 2 (high total testosterone, normal SHBG) showed moderate acne and less alopecia.

Conclusions:

• Increased androgen levels can occur at any age in men.
• In older men, elevated total testosterone may be due to increased SHBG without higher free testosterone.
• Clinical presentations vary: elevated DHT correlates with alopecia, while elevated total and free testosterone, exacerbated by DHT, are linked to acne.