Testosterone, HIV, and cardiovascular disease risk

Jelani K Grant1, Quentin Loyd1, Claudia Martinez2

  • 1Internal Medicine Division, University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital.

Insights

Testosterone supplementation is rising in young adults, raising concerns about cardiovascular safety, especially for people living with HIV (PLHIV) who face higher risks. This review examines testosterone deficiency diagnosis, management, and its link to cardiovascular disease in PLHIV.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Rising use of testosterone supplementation in young adults.
  • Controversy surrounding testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and cardiovascular safety.
  • Increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and earlier TRT use in people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compile current evidence on testosterone deficiency in PLHIV.
  • To review the diagnosis and management of testosterone deficiency.
  • To explore the link between testosterone deficiency and CVD risk in PLHIV.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies.
  • Synthesis of evidence on TRT and cardiovascular outcomes.
  • Focus on data relevant to people living with HIV.

Main Results:

  • Limited data currently exists on TRT in PLHIV.
  • Testosterone deficiency is relevant due to increased CVD comorbidities in PLHIV.
  • TRT use and cardiovascular safety in PLHIV requires further investigation.

Conclusions:

  • Testosterone deficiency diagnosis and management in PLHIV needs more research.
  • Understanding the link between TRT and CVD risk in PLHIV is crucial.
  • Further studies are needed to guide safe and effective TRT practices for PLHIV.

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