Digit Length Ratio as an Indicator of Fetal Androgen Levels: Relationship to Prostate Volume-Related Men Lower...

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the 2nd and 4th digit ratios, which are associated with fetal androgen exposure, and prostate volume and testosterone levels, both of which are linked to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Male patients presenting to our urology clinic with increased prostate volume and LUTS were categorized into two groups: those with BPH and those without (non-BPH). For both groups, the right-hand 2D:4D finger ratio, testosterone levels, prostate volume, uroflow parameters, and IPSS scores were recorded.

The 2D:4D ratio, prostate volumes, Qmax, and IPSS scores differed significantly between the BPH and non-BPH groups (p = 0.023, 0.002, 0.000, 0.001). No significant difference was observed in total testosterone levels between the groups (p = 0.381). The 2D:4D ratio was negatively correlated with prostate volume and IPSS (r = -0.389, -0.308) and positively correlated with Qmax (r = 0.301).

Our study demonstrates that the 2D:4D ratio is a straightforward and effective tool for assessing BPH patients, as it correlates with the severity of LUTS symptoms. This non-invasive measure offers potential value in evaluating LUTS, and with age standardization, it could be applied more broadly across age groups. Further large-scale studies are needed to refine its standardization and expand upon current findings.