Livingston, M.; Heald, A.H. Adult Male Hypogonadism: A Laboratory Medicine Perspective on Its Diagnosis and Management. Diagnostics2023, 13, 3650.
Livingston, M.; Heald, A.H. Adult Male Hypogonadism: A Laboratory Medicine Perspective on Its Diagnosis and Management. Diagnostics 2023, 13, 3650.
Livingston, M.; Heald, A.H. Adult Male Hypogonadism: A Laboratory Medicine Perspective on Its Diagnosis and Management. Diagnostics2023, 13, 3650.
Livingston, M.; Heald, A.H. Adult Male Hypogonadism: A Laboratory Medicine Perspective on Its Diagnosis and Management. Diagnostics 2023, 13, 3650.
Abstract
Testosterone (T), the principal androgen secreted by the testes, plays an essential role in male health. Male hypogonadism is diagnosed based on a combination of associated clinical signs and symptoms and laboratory confirmation of low circulating T levels. In this review we have highlighted factors, both biological and analytical, that introduce variation into the measurement of serum T concentrations in men; these need to be considered when requesting T levels and interpreting results. There is an ongoing need for analytical standardisation of T assays and harmonisation of pre- and post-analytical laboratory practices, particularly in relation to the laboratory reference intervals provided to clinicians. Further, there is a need to share with service users the most up-to-date and evidence-based action thresholds for serum T as recommended in the literature. Estimation of free testosterone may be helpful. Causes of secondary hypogonadism should be considered. A comprehensive approach is required in the management of male hypogonadism, including lifestyle modification, as well as medication where appropriate. The goal of treatment is resolution of symptoms as well as optimisation of metabolic, cardiovascular and bone health. The advice of an endocrinologist should be sought, where there is doubt about the cause and appropriate management of the hypogonadism.
Keywords
male hypogonadism; androgen deficiency; testosterone; assay; erectile dysfunction
Subject
Medicine and Pharmacology, Endocrinology and Metabolism
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
