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Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS, Shaikh MA, Elbeltagi R. Microphallus early management in infancy saves adulthood sensual life: A comprehensive review. World J Clin Pediatr 2024; 13:89224. [DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v13.i2.89224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Microphallus/Micropenis is a rare condition with significant physical and psychological implications for affected individuals. This article comprehensively reviews micropenis, its etiology, epidemiology, and various treatment options. We conducted a thorough literature review to collect relevant information on micropenis and microphallus, as well as related disorders. Our primary databases were PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar. We searched for articles published in English between 2000 and 2023. Our analysis included 67 review articles, 56 research studies, 11 case reports, one guideline, and one editorial. Our search terms included "microphallus", "micropenis", "congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism", "androgen insensitivity syndrome", "pediatric management of micropenis", "testosterone therapy", and "psychosocial implications of micropenis". We focused on diagnosing micropenis and related conditions, including hormonal assessments, medical and surgical treatment options, psychosocial and psychological well-being, sexual development of adolescents, and sociocultural influences on men's perceptions of penile size. Additionally, we explored parenting and family dynamics in cases of micropenis and disorders of sex development, implications of hormonal treatment in neonates, and studies related to penile augmentation procedures and their effectiveness. The article highlights the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in addressing the physical and psychological well-being of individuals with micropenis. Surgical procedures, such as penile lengthening and girth enhancement, and non-surgical approaches like hormonal therapy are explored. The significance of psychological support, education, and lifestyle modifications is emphasized. Early management and comprehensive care are crucial for individuals with micropenis, from infancy to adolescence and beyond. A multidisciplinary approach involving urologists, endocrinologists, and mental health professionals is recommended. Regular assessment of treatment effectiveness and the need for updated guidelines are essential to provide the best possible care. Healthcare professionals should prioritize early diagnosis, and neonatologists should measure stretched penile length in neonates. A collaborative effort is needed among professionals, parents, and affected individuals to create a supportive environment that recognizes worth beyond physical differences. Continuous research and evidence-based updates are crucial for improving care standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Department of Pediatric, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31511, Egypt
- Department of Pediatric, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 26671, Bahrain
- Department of Pediatric, University Medical Center, Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Nermin Kamal Saeed
- Department of Medical Microbiology Section and Pathology, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain, Manama 12, Bahrain
- Department of Medical Microbiology Section and Pathology, Irish Royal College of Surgeon, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Adel Salah Bediwy
- Department of Pulmonology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
- Department of Pulmonology, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 26671, Bahrain
- Department of Pulmonology, University Medical Center, Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Majed A Shaikh
- Department of Pediatrics, Ibn Al Nafees Hospital, Manama 54533, Bahrain
| | - Reem Elbeltagi
- Department of Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Bahrain, Busiateen 15503, Bahrain
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Khadilkar V, Mondkar SA. Micropenis. Indian J Pediatr 2023; 90:598-604. [PMID: 37079255 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-023-04540-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Micropenis, i.e., a structurally normal but abnormally small penis is defined as stretched penile length (SPL) 2.5 SD below the mean for age and sexual stage. Several studies worldwide have published country-specific normative data on SPL; an appropriate cutoff for evaluation of micropenis as per international standards would be below 2 cm at birth and below 4 cm after 5 y of age. Testosterone production by fetal testes, its conversion to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and its action on the androgen receptor is necessary for normal penile development. Hypothalamo-pituitary disorders (gonadotropin or growth hormone deficiencies), genetic syndromes, partial gonadal dysgenesis, testicular regression, disorders of testosterone biosynthesis and action constitute the various etiologies of micropenis. Associated hypospadias, incomplete scrotal fusion, and cryptorchidism are suggestive of disorders of sex development (DSD). Along with basal and human chorionic gonadotropins (HCG)-stimulated gonadotropins, testosterone, DHT, and androstenedione levels, karyotype assessment is equally important. Treatment aims at attaining penile length sufficient enough for urination and to perform sexual function. Hormonal therapy with intramuscular or topical testosterone, topical DHT or recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) should be attempted in the neonatal or infancy period. The role of surgery for micropenis is limited and has variable patient satisfaction and complication outcomes. There is a need for long-term studies on the adult SPL achieved following treatment for micropenis in infancy and childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaman Khadilkar
- Department of Growth and Pediatric Endocrinology, Hirabai Cowasji Jehangir Medical Research Institute, Block V Lower Basement, Jehangir Hospital, 32 Sassoon Road, Pune, Maharashtra, 411001, India.
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule University, Pune, India.
| | - Shruti A Mondkar
- Department of Growth and Pediatric Endocrinology, Hirabai Cowasji Jehangir Medical Research Institute, Block V Lower Basement, Jehangir Hospital, 32 Sassoon Road, Pune, Maharashtra, 411001, India
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Jabari M. Trans Dermal Testosterone Compared to Intramuscular Testosterone for Young Males with Delayed Puberty: A PRISMA Guided Systematic Review. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:733-744. [PMID: 36872942 PMCID: PMC9984275 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s396144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Challenges in selecting the right formulation of testosterone (TE) for young males with delayed puberty (DP) arise from the fact that there is limited evidence based guidelines in recommending the most efficient and safe formulation of TE. Objective To evaluate the existing evidence and systematically review the interventional effects of transdermal TE to other modes of TE administration for the treatment of DP among young and adolescent males. Methods All types of methodologies published in English were searched from the data sources including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Reviews, Web of Science, AMED and Scopus from 2015 till 2022. Boolean operators with keywords "types of TE", "modes of TE administration", "DP", "transdermal TE", "constitutional delay of growth and puberty, (CDGP)" "adolescent boys" and "hypogonadism" to optimize the search results. The main outcomes of concern were optimal serum TE level, body mass index, height velocity, testicular volume, pubertal stage (Tanner), The secondary outcomes included in this study were adverse events and patient satisfaction. Results After screening 126 articles, 39 full texts were reviewed. Only five studies could be included after careful screening and rigid quality assessments. Most studies were at high or unclear risk of bias with short duration and follow up periods. Only one study was a clinical trial covering all the outcomes of interests. Conclusion This study points out the favorable effects of transdermal TE treatment for DP in boys, while the existence of the vast gap in research needs to be acknowledged. Despite the utmost demand in an appropriate TE treatment for young males with DP, scarce efforts and trials are being undertaken to provide clear clinical guidance of treatment. Quality of life, cardiac events, metabolic parameters, coagulation profiles are important aspects of the treatment are overlooked and under evaluated in most studies. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO CRD 42022369699.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mosleh Jabari
- Department of Endocrinology, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Stancampiano MR, Suzuki K, O'Toole S, Russo G, Yamada G, Faisal Ahmed S. Congenital Micropenis: Etiology And Management. J Endocr Soc 2022; 6:bvab172. [PMID: 35036822 PMCID: PMC8754418 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In the newborn, penile length is determined by a number of androgen dependent and independent factors. The current literature suggests that there are interracial differences in stretched penile length in the newborn and although congenital micropenis should be defined as a stretched penile length of less than 2.5 SDS of the mean for the corresponding population and gestation, a pragmatic approach would be to evaluate all boys with a stretched penile length below 2 cm, as congenital micropenis can be a marker for a wide range of endocrine conditions. However, it remains unclear as to whether the state of micropenis, itself, is associated with any long-term consequences. There is a lack of systematic studies comparing the impact of different therapeutic options on long-term outcomes, in terms of genital appearance, quality of life, and sexual satisfaction. To date, research has been hampered by a small sample size and inclusion of a wide range of heterogeneous diagnoses; for these reasons, condition-specific outcomes have been difficult to compare between studies. Lastly, there is a need for a greater collaborative effort in collecting standardized data so that all real-world or experimental interventions performed at an early age can be studied systematically into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kentaro Suzuki
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan
| | - Stuart O'Toole
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow G51 4TF, UK
| | - Gianni Russo
- Department of Pediatrics, Endocrine Unit, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Gen Yamada
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan
| | - Syed Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G51 4TF, UK
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Rey RA. Recent advancement in the treatment of boys and adolescents with hypogonadism. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2022; 13:20420188211065660. [PMID: 35035874 PMCID: PMC8753232 DOI: 10.1177/20420188211065660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical manifestations and the need for treatment varies according to age in males with hypogonadism. Early foetal-onset hypogonadism results in disorders of sex development (DSD) presenting with undervirilised genitalia whereas hypogonadism established later in foetal life presents with micropenis, cryptorchidism and/or micro-orchidism. After the period of neonatal activation of the gonadal axis has waned, the diagnosis of hypogonadism is challenging because androgen deficiency is not apparent until the age of puberty. Then, the differential diagnosis between constitutional delay of puberty and central hypogonadism may be difficult. During infancy and childhood, treatment is usually sought because of micropenis and/or cryptorchidism, whereas lack of pubertal development and relative short stature are the main complaints in teenagers. Testosterone therapy has been the standard, although off-label, in the vast majority of cases. However, more recently alternative therapies have been tested: aromatase inhibitors to induce the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis in boys with constitutional delay of puberty and replacement with GnRH or gonadotrophins in those with central hypogonadism. Furthermore, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) priming prior to hCG or luteinizing hormone (LH) treatment seems effective to induce an enhanced testicular enlargement. Although the rationale for gonadotrophin or GnRH treatment is based on mimicking normal physiology, long-term results are still needed to assess their impact on adult fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo A. Rey
- Rodolfo A. Rey Centro de Investigaciones
Endocrinológicas ‘Dr. César Bergadá’ (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de
Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Dr. Ricardo Gutiérrez, Gallo 1330, C1425EFD
Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Abstract
During adolescence, androgens are responsible for the development of secondary
sexual characteristics, pubertal growth, and the anabolic effects on bone and
muscle mass. Testosterone is the most abundant testicular androgen, but some
effects are mediated by its conversion to the more potent androgen
dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or to estradiol. Androgen deficiency, requiring
replacement therapy, may occur due to a primary testicular failure or secondary
to a hypothalamic–pituitary disorder. A very frequent condition characterized by
a late activation of the gonadal axis that may also need androgen treatment is
constitutional delay of puberty. Of the several testosterone or DHT formulations
commercially available, very few are employed, and none is marketed for its use
in adolescents. The most frequently used androgen therapy is based on the
intramuscular administration of testosterone enanthate or cypionate every 3 to 4
weeks, with initially low doses. These are progressively increased during
several months or years, in order to mimic the physiology of puberty, until
adult doses are attained. Scarce experience exists with oral or transdermal
formulations. Preparations containing DHT, which are not widely available, are
preferred in specific conditions. Oxandrolone, a non-aromatizable drug with
higher anabolic than androgenic effects, has been used in adolescents with
preserved testosterone production, like Klinefelter syndrome, with positive
effects on cardiometabolic health and visual, motor, and psychosocial functions.
The usual protocols applied for androgen therapy in boys and adolescents are
discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo A Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Romina P Grinspon
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Vogiatzi M, Tursi JP, Jaffe JS, Hobson S, Rogol AD. Testosterone Use in Adolescent Males: Current Practice and Unmet Needs. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvaa161. [PMID: 33294762 PMCID: PMC7705876 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is routinely prescribed in adolescent males with constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) or hypogonadism. With many new testosterone (T) formulations entering the market targeted for adults, we review current evidence and TRT options for adolescents and identify areas of unmet needs. We searched PubMed for articles (in English) on testosterone therapy, androgens, adolescence, and puberty in humans. The results indicate that short-term use of T enanthate (TE) or oral T undecanoate is safe and effective in inducing puberty and increasing growth in males with CDGP. Reassuring evidence is emerging on the use of transdermal T to induce and maintain puberty. The long-term safety and efficacy of TRT for puberty completion and maintenance have not been established. Current TRT regimens are based on consensus and expert opinion, but evidence-based guidelines are lacking. Limited guidance exists on when and how T should be administered and optimal strategies for monitoring therapy once it is initiated. Only TE and T pellets are US Food and Drug Administration approved for use in adolescent males in the United States. Despite the introduction of a wide variety of new T formulations, they are designed for adults, and their metered doses are difficult to titrate in adolescents. In conclusion, TRT in adolescent males is hindered by lack of long-term safety and efficacy data and limited options approved for use in this population. Additional research is needed to identify the route, dose, duration, and optimal timing for TRT in adolescents requiring androgen therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vogiatzi
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | - Sue Hobson
- Antares Pharma, Inc, Ewing, New Jersey, USA
| | - Alan D Rogol
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Mason KA, Schoelwer MJ, Rogol AD. Androgens During Infancy, Childhood, and Adolescence: Physiology and Use in Clinical Practice. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5770947. [PMID: 32115641 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
We provide an in-depth review of the role of androgens in male maturation and development, from the fetal stage through adolescence into emerging adulthood, and discuss the treatment of disorders of androgen production throughout these time periods. Testosterone, the primary androgen produced by males, has both anabolic and androgenic effects. Androgen exposure induces virilization and anabolic body composition changes during fetal development, influences growth and virilization during infancy, and stimulates development of secondary sexual characteristics, growth acceleration, bone mass accrual, and alterations of body composition during puberty. Disorders of androgen production may be subdivided into hypo- or hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism may be either congenital or acquired (resulting from cranial radiation, trauma, or less common causes). Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism occurs in males with Klinefelter syndrome and may occur in response to pelvic radiation, certain chemotherapeutic agents, and less common causes. These disorders all require testosterone replacement therapy during pubertal maturation and many require lifelong replacement. Androgen (or gonadotropin) therapy is clearly beneficial in those with persistent hypogonadism and self-limited delayed puberty and is now widely used in transgender male adolescents. With more widespread use and newer formulations approved for adults, data from long-term randomized placebo-controlled trials are needed to enable pediatricians to identify the optimal age of initiation, route of administration, and dosing frequency to address the unique needs of their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Mason
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | - Alan D Rogol
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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Wu WJ, Gitlin JS. The Male Genital System. Pediatr Rev 2020; 41:101-111. [PMID: 32123021 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2017-0316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wayland J Wu
- Smith Institute for Urology, Zucker School of Medicine, Lake Success, NY
| | - Jordan S Gitlin
- Cohen Children's Medical Center, Division of Pediatric Urology, Zucker School of Medicine, New Hyde Park, NY
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Micropenis. Sex Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-1226-7_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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Abstract
Micropenis is a medical diagnosis based on correct measurement of length. If stretched penile length is below the value corresponding to - 2.5 standard deviation of the mean in a patient with normal internal and external male genitalia, a diagnosis of micropenis is considered. Micropenis can be caused by a variety of factors including structural or hormonal defects of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. It can also be a component of a number of congenital syndromes. For the etiological evaluation, endocrinologic tests are important. This article reviews the etiology, diagnosis, treatment and management of micropenis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihal Hatipoğlu
- Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Selim Kurtoğlu
- Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Kayseri, Turkey
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When size matters: a clinical review of pathological micropenis. J Pediatr Health Care 2010; 24:231-40. [PMID: 20620849 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2009.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2009] [Revised: 05/03/2009] [Accepted: 05/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Micropenis is a significantly small penis with normal internal male genitalia. Micropenis is usually diagnosed shortly after birth, and the cause should be established; in addition, it should be differentiated from other associated syndromes. The role of the pediatric nurse practitioner is to diagnose the micropenis, guide the parents through the options of management, and support all involved through the selected treatment, whether hormonal or surgical. Patients affected with micropenis will need long-term management from their pediatric nurse practitioners, as well as follow-up by endocrinologists, urologists, pediatric surgeons (if surgery is chosen as the treatment), psychologists, and social workers. The need of more long-term research on patients with micropenis also is discussed.
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Traish AM, Guay AT. REVIEWS: Are Androgens Critical for Penile Erections in Humans? Examining the Clinical and Preclinical Evidence. J Sex Med 2006; 3:382-404; discussion 404-7. [PMID: 16681465 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2006.00245.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Androgens are deemed critical for penile-tissue development, growth, and maintenance of erectile function, however, their role in erection, especially in humans, remains controversial. In this review, we summarize information from clinical and animal model studies to provide a comprehensive and rational argument for the role of androgens, or lack thereof, on penile erection ability in humans. The goal of this review is to present the clinical and preclinical evidence available in the literature with regard to testosterone and erectile physiology and engage the reader in this discussion. Ultimately, each reader will have to form his or her own conclusions based on the existing evidence. In humans, androgen-deficiency manifestations are noted in clinical situations such as: (i) inadequate development of the penis; and (ii) loss of erectile function in prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia patients managed with medical or surgical castration or antiandrogen therapy. Androgen treatment causes: (i) improvement in sexual function in hypogonadal patients treated with androgen supplementation; (ii) improvement in nocturnal penile tumescence in hypogonadal patients treated with androgens; (iii) improvement in erectile function with androgen supplementation in patients who did not respond to phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor therapy initially; and (iv) improvement in the well-being, mood, energy, and sexual function in aging men who have testosterone deficiency treated with androgen therapy. In contrast to animals, especially rodents in which the adrenal cortex does not synthesize androgens, the human adrenal is a source of peripherally circulating androgen precursors, thus, complete androgen insufficiency may not be observed in men at a younger age. Furthermore, in light of the concept that a threshold of androgen levels exists in animals and humans below which sexual function is diminished, further contributes to the complexity of understanding androgens role in erections, especially in humans. Nevertheless, based on the preclinical and clinical data available in the literature, to date, we infer that androgens play a critical role in maintaining erectile physiology in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmaged M Traish
- Department of Biochemistry & Urology, Institute for Sexual Medicine, Center for Advanced Biomedical Research, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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Bezemer ID, Rinaldi S, Dossus L, Gils CHV, Peeters PHM, Noord PAHV, Bueno-de-Mesquita HB, Johnsen SP, Overvad K, Olsen A, Tjønneland A, Boeing H, Lahmann PH, Linseisen J, Nagel G, Allen N, Roddam A, Bingham S, Khaw KT, Kesse E, Téhard B, Clavel-Chapelon F, Agudo A, Ardanaz E, Quiros JR, Amiano P, Martínez-Garcia C, Tormo MJ, Pala V, Panico S, Vineis P, Palli D, Tumino R, Trichopoulou A, Baibas N, Zilis D, Hémon B, Norat T, Riboli E, Kaaks R. C-peptide, IGF-I, sex-steroid hormones and adiposity: a cross-sectional study in healthy women within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). Cancer Causes Control 2005; 16:561-72. [PMID: 15986111 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-004-7472-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2004] [Accepted: 12/10/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The risk of some cancers is positively associated with body weight, which may influence circulating levels of sex-steroid hormones, insulin and IGF-I. Interrelationships between these hormones and the associations with adiposity were evaluated in healthy women participating in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). METHODS A cross-sectional analysis was performed on anthropometric and hormonal data from 743 pre- and 1217 postmenopausal women. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were used as indicators of adiposity. C-peptide, Insulin Growth Factor (IGF)-I, Insulin Growth Factor binding protein (IGFBP)-3, androgens, estrogens and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were measured by immunoassays; free sex steroid concentrations were calculated. RESULTS BMI and waist circumference were positively correlated with estrogens in postmenopausal women and with C-peptide, free testosterone and inversely with SHBG in all women. C-peptide and IGF-I were inversely correlated with SHBG, and positively with free sex steroids in postmenopausal women. IGF-I was positively associated with postmenopausal estrogens and androgen concentrations in all women. CONCLUSIONS Sex-steroid concentrations appear to be regulated along several axes. Adiposity correlated directly with estrogens in postmenopausal women and with insulin, resulting in lower SHBG and increased levels of free sex steroids. Independent of adiposity and insulin, IGF-I was associated with decreased SHBG levels, and increased concentrations of androgens and postmenopausal estrogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene D Bezemer
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, 150 Cours Albert Thomas, 69372, Lyon CEDEX 08, France
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Warne GL, Grover S, Zajac JD. Hormonal therapies for individuals with intersex conditions: protocol for use. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 4:19-29. [PMID: 15649098 DOI: 10.2165/00024677-200504010-00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal therapy forms part of the treatment of every intersex condition. For some conditions, such as salt-wasting congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hormonal replacement therapy is life saving because hormones necessary for survival (cortisol and aldosterone) are replaced. In contrast, other hormones such as androgens or mineralocorticoids are secreted in excessive amounts in congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to an enzyme imbalance, and the role of hormonal therapy is to suppress the unwanted hormone excess by exerting negative feedback. For patients with one of the many causes of hypogonadism, sex hormone replacement therapy may be prescribed to stimulate sexual development: growth of a hypoplastic penis in a young boy, pubertal changes (male or female), psychosexual development, and adult sexual behavior. It has equally important and highly beneficial effects on bone mineral density. Hormonal therapy is also used to treat the unborn child. For the last 20 years, prenatal dexamethasone treatment administered to the pregnant woman has been used to prevent the development of ambiguous genitalia in females with 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Outcome studies show this treatment to be well tolerated and, in general, efficacious. Intersex conditions are, however, difficult to treat because they may intrinsically perturb complex aspects of the person's gender identity, gender-role behavior, sexual orientation, sexual functioning, and psychologic adjustment. Furthermore, decisions made about the sex of an infant by doctors and parents do not always turn out to be correct; the person may grow up feeling uncertain about his or her gender identity, or worse still, harbor a sense of outrage about their life and treatment experiences. Such a person will have definite views about hormonal therapy when the time comes and skillful counseling will be needed. A vigorous debate about ethical aspects of current medical practices relating to intersex conditions has been waged for the last 7 years between certain patient advocacy organizations and the medical profession, and is expected to continue for some time. The quality of the debate will be improved by evidence. The results of a number of long-term follow-up studies have been published, and more are expected. The published studies show mixed, but mainly encouraging, results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garry L Warne
- Centre for Hormone Research, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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