Hypogonadism is often observed in the presence of common acute and chronic illnesses in men. Low testosterone levels in these patients can be associated with loss of lean body mass and bone mass density, decline in mood, loss of energy, and sexual dysfunction. The mechanisms explaining hypogonadism and various systemic diseases are not completely understood, but these conditions are likely caused by a combination of stress, nonspecific weight loss, inflammation, and medication. Testosterone replacement can be considered in this population to improve lean body mass, bone mass density, and quality of life. More information is needed regarding the risk benefits of testosterone treatment on health outcomes in men who have systemic illness.
aDivision of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
bDepartment of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
Corresponding author. Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument Street, Baltimore, MD 21287.
ABSTRACT