Decreased serum testosterone in men with acute ischemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Neurology
• Cardiovascular Science

Background:

• Low testosterone levels have been observed in various chronic conditions.
• The specific role of testosterone in acute ischemic stroke is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate serum levels of total and free testosterone and 17 beta-estradiol in men with acute ischemic stroke compared to healthy controls.
• To determine the association between testosterone levels, stroke severity, infarct size, and mortality.

Main Methods:

• Serum hormone levels (total and free testosterone, 17 beta-estradiol) were measured in 144 men with acute ischemic stroke and 47 healthy controls.
• Stroke severity was assessed using the Scandinavian Stroke Scale, and infarct size by computed tomographic scan.
• Hormone levels were re-evaluated in a subgroup of patients after 6 months.

Main Results:

• Men with acute ischemic stroke had significantly lower total and free testosterone levels compared to controls.
• Both total and free testosterone levels were inversely associated with stroke severity and 6-month mortality.
• Total testosterone was also inversely associated with infarct size; 17 beta-estradiol levels did not differ between groups.
• Testosterone levels tended to normalize by 6 months post-stroke.

Conclusions:

• Testosterone deficiency may play a role in the pathogenesis of acute ischemic stroke in men.
• Lower testosterone levels are associated with worse stroke outcomes, including severity and mortality.
• The findings suggest testosterone's influence on stroke development and progression.