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Association between testosterone levels and mood disorders: A minireview.
Silvana Zito1, Guido Nosari2, Alessandro Pigoni1
1Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|February 25, 2023
Summary
Testosterone (T) levels appear reduced in major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD). Further research is needed to confirm T as a potential biomarker for these mood disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Psychiatry
- Mood Disorders Research
Background:
- The neuropsychiatric implications of testosterone (T) are recognized, yet its specific role in mood disorders remains unclear.
- Existing research presents a complex picture regarding the relationship between testosterone levels and mood dysregulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current literature on serum testosterone levels in major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD).
- To investigate the potential causal link between mood alterations and testosterone levels.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of 9 original studies identified through a PubMed bibliographic search.
- Exclusion of studies involving hormonal therapy or psychiatric disorders other than MDD and BD.
Main Results:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) showed an association with lower testosterone levels compared to healthy controls.
- Bipolar disorder (BD) presented heterogeneous results, with studies reporting reduced, increased, or unchanged testosterone levels.
- Significant heterogeneity across studies in sample characteristics, assessment tools, and methodologies was noted.
Conclusions:
- Testosterone levels were generally found to be reduced in patients with both MDD and BD.
- Testosterone may serve as a potential biomarker for mood disorders.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise role of testosterone in mood disorders.
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