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Minerva Ginecologica 2007 February;59(1):43-9

Copyright © 2007 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

Androgen deficiency in older men

Valenti G., Ceresini G., Maggio M.

Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy

Androgen deficiency in older men can be related to age associated changes of neuro-endocrine mechanisms controlling the hormones secreted by the testis and adrenal cortex. We listed the clinical consequences of androgen deficiency at three different levels in three areas: somatic (body composition, glucidic and lipid metabolism, erythropoiesis), sexual and psychological (cognition and affectivity). Observational studies and randomized placebo controlled trials have been reviewed from medical literature. Testosterone, now preferentially administered as transdermal gel, and dehydroepiandrosterone represent two possible treatments. New compounds designed to target androgen receptors in specific tissues are promising options as anabolic agents.