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Sumerwell C, Carlin K, Walsh E, Hodax JK. Serum Hormone Concentrations in Transgender Youth Receiving Estradiol. Endocr Pract 2024; 30:155-159. [PMID: 38029927 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the serum estradiol levels in gender-diverse youth to compare the efficacy of different estradiol routes in achieving therapeutic blood levels and suppressing serum testosterone levels. METHODS This was a retrospective chart review of patients who initiated estradiol at an adolescent gender clinic between 2010 and 2019. Data on the route of estradiol administration and antiandrogen use (spironolactone or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist) were collected, and laboratory data were analyzed. Scatterplots were used to visualize the relationship between the estradiol dose and testosterone and estradiol laboratory values. RESULTS A total of 118 patients were included, with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of 17.2 (1.6) years. The most common route of estradiol administration was oral only (62.7%), followed by transdermal only (23.7%), multiple routes excluding subcutaneous (8.5%), and any subcutaneous (5.1%). Notable variability was observed in the serum estradiol levels, with means (SDs) of 131.9 (120.4) pg/mL for those on oral estrogen 6 to 8 mg per day, 62.6 (40.3) pg/mL for those on transdermal estrogen 0.1 to 0.15 mg every 24 hours, and 53.6 (42.4) pg/mL for those on subcutaneous estradiol. In patients who received spironolactone, transdermal estradiol was associated with lower testosterone levels than estradiol administered orally or subcutaneously. CONCLUSION Oral, transdermal, and subcutaneous administrations of estrogen all lead to increased serum estradiol levels and are effective for use in gender-affirming care for youth. Patients on transdermal estrogen tended to have lower serum estradiol levels but also had more suppression of serum testosterone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Sumerwell
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kristen Carlin
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | - Elaine Walsh
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington; Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Juanita K Hodax
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington.
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Baines HK, Connelly KJ. A prospective comparison study of subcutaneous and intramuscular testosterone injections in transgender male adolescents. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2023; 36:1028-1036. [PMID: 37788646 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2023-0237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This prospective study compares testosterone injection type and effects on biochemical changes, clinical effects, and quality of life amongst transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adolescents assigned female at birth (AFAB) over the first 6 months of subcutaneous (SQ) vs. intramuscular (IM) testosterone injections as part of their gender affirming care. METHODS Subjects were testosterone-naïve transgender adolescents, AFAB, ages 14-18 years old. Subjects were either randomized to injection type or selected a preferred injection type. At enrollment, subjects completed baseline labs and PedsQL™ quality of life questionnaire. At 3 month and 6 month follow up, subjects completed peak and trough testosterone levels, PedsQL™, masculinizing effects, and medication experience questionnaires. RESULTS Twenty-six subjects participated with a median age 15.5 years. By 6-month follow up, trough testosterone levels were comparable between the two groups. Peak testosterone levels were higher in the IM group at 3-month follow up. Mild adverse effects were rare (12 %, all in SQ subjects) and limited to skin reaction only. Self-reported masculinization effects and quality of life were not statistically different between injection groups. A total of 92 % of participants was self-injecting by 3-month follow up. CONCLUSIONS In this prospective study, clinical and biochemical effects are similar between SQ and IM testosterone injections for transgender adolescents. Subjects expressed preference for both injection types. Both SQ and IM injection modalities are safe and effective for TGD youth initiating testosterone and both options should be offered to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley K Baines
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kara J Connelly
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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Alaniz VI, Sheeder JL, Whitmore GT, Wilde MD, Hutchens KJ, Nokoff NJ, Reirden DH, Huguelet PS. Menstrual Suppression in Adolescent and Young Adult Transgender Males. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2023; 36:116-121. [PMID: 37938039 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2022.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe time to cessation of menses in adolescent and young adult transgender males with testosterone and/or other hormonal therapies DESIGN: Retrospective chart review SETTING: Tertiary children's hospital PARTICIPANTS: Patients, aged 10-24, who began gender-affirming hormonal therapy between January 2013 and January 2019 (n = 220) INTERVENTION(S): None MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Time to cessation of menses RESULTS: Most patients identified as transgender male or transmasculine (211/220, 95.9%), with an average age of 15.8 (±1.9) years. Approximately 53.6% (118/220) of patients reported regular menstrual cycles; 18.2% (40/220) reported irregular cycles. Median time to cessation of menses for all patients was 182 days. Patients treated with testosterone alone (n = 105) reported a median time to cessation of menses of 151 days. Patients who concurrently began testosterone and norethindrone acetate (NETA) (n = 5) had a median time to cessation of menses of 188 days, compared with 168 days for those on testosterone and depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA, n = 15). In 15 patients who began testosterone, a progestin therapy was later added to induce menstrual suppression, and the median time to cessation of menses was 168 days (+DMPA, n = 4) or 56 days (+NETA, n = 11). Patients treated with NETA (n = 14) or depot leuprolide (n = 11) reported a median time to cessation of menses of 78 days or 77 days, respectively. Considerable variability in prescribing patterns was noted in the remaining 36.4% of patients (n = 80). CONCLUSION Patients used a variety of different hormonal regimens for menstrual suppression. Less than half achieved cessation of menses within 6 months. NETA and depot leuprolide users reported the most rapid cessation of menses.
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Affiliation(s)
- V I Alaniz
- University of Colorado Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Aurora, CO
| | - J L Sheeder
- University of Colorado Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aurora, CO
| | - G T Whitmore
- University of Colorado Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aurora, CO
| | - M D Wilde
- University of Colorado Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aurora, CO
| | - K J Hutchens
- University of Colorado Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Aurora, CO
| | - N J Nokoff
- University of Colorado Department of Pediatrics, Section of Endocrinology, Aurora, CO
| | - D H Reirden
- University of Colorado Department of Pediatrics, Section of Adolescent Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - P S Huguelet
- University of Colorado Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Aurora, CO.
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Herndon JS, Maheshwari AK, Nippoldt TB, Carlson SJ, Davidge-Pitts CJ, Chang AY. Comparison of Subcutaneous and Intramuscular Estradiol Regimens as part of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy. Endocr Pract 2023; 29:356-361. [PMID: 36868378 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) guidelines describe estradiol doses for intramuscular (IM), but not subcutaneous (SC) routes. Objective was to compare SC and IM estradiol doses and hormone concentrations in transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals. METHODS Retrospective cohort study at a single site tertiary care referral center. Patients were TGD individuals receiving injectable estradiol with at least 2 estradiol measurements. Main outcomes were median doses and achieved serum hormone concentrations between SC and IM routes. RESULTS There was no statistical difference in age, BMI or anti-androgen use between patients on SC estradiol (n = 74) vs IM estradiol (n = 56). Median weekly doses of SC estradiol, 3.75 mg [IQR 3-4 mg] were statistically significantly lower than IM estradiol, 4 mg [IQR 3-5.15 mg] (p = 0.005), but estradiol concentrations achieved by both groups were not significantly different, (p = 0.69) and median testosterone concentrations were in the cisgender female range and were not significantly different between routes (p = 0.92). Subgroup analysis demonstrated significantly higher doses in the IM group when estradiol > 100 pg/mL, testosterone < 50 ng/dL, with gonads present, or use of anti-androgens. Multiple Regression Analysis demonstrated that estradiol dose was significantly associated with estradiol concentrations after adjusting for injection route, BMI, anti-androgen use, and gonadectomy status. CONCLUSIONS Both SC and IM estradiol GAHT achieve therapeutic estradiol concentrations without a meaningful difference in estradiol dose (3.75 vs 4 mg). SC use may require lower doses than IM to achieve therapeutic concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine S Herndon
- Mayo Clinic Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition Rochester, Minnesota.
| | | | - Todd B Nippoldt
- Mayo Clinic Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Sara J Carlson
- Mayo Clinic Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Caroline J Davidge-Pitts
- Mayo Clinic Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Alice Y Chang
- Mayo Clinic Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Jacksonville, Florida
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Majumder A, Chatterjee S, Maji D, Ghosh S, Selvan C, George B, Kalra P, Chandrasekaran S, Priya G, Sukumar S, Sanyal D, Roychaudhuri S. IDEA Group Consensus Statement on Medical Management of Adult Gender Incongruent Individuals Seeking Gender Affirmation as Male. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2023; 27:3-16. [PMID: 37215272 PMCID: PMC10198197 DOI: 10.4103/ijem.ijem_410_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is the most frequent treatment offered to gender-incongruent individuals, which reduces dysphoria. The goal of therapy among gender-incongruent individuals seeking gender affirmation as male is to change their secondary sex characteristics to affect masculine physical appearances. GAHT greatly improves mental health and quality of life among gender incongruent individuals. India-specific guideline for appropriate care for gender-incongruent individuals is almost absent. This document is intended to assist endocrinologists and other healthcare professionals interested in gender incongruity for individuals seeking gender affirmation as male. A safe and effective GAHT regimen aims to effect masculinising physical features without adverse effects. In this document, we offer suggestions based on an in-depth review of national and international guidelines, recently available evidence and collegial meetings with expert Indian clinicians working in this field. Clinicians represented in our expert panel have developed expertise due to the volume of gender incongruent individuals they manage. This consensus statement provides protocols for the hormone prescribing physicians relating to diagnosis, baseline evaluation and counselling, prescription planning for masculinising hormone therapy, choice of therapy, targets for monitoring masculinising hormone therapy, clinical and biochemical monitoring, recommending sex affirmation surgery and peri-operative hormone therapy. The recommendations made in this document are not rigid guidelines, and the hormone-prescribing physicians are encouraged to modify the suggested protocol to address emerging issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Majumder
- Department of Endocrinology, KPC Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sudip Chatterjee
- Department of Medicine, Vivekanada Institute of Medical Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Debasis Maji
- Department of Medicine, Vivekanada Institute of Medical Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sujoy Ghosh
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Post-Graduate Medical Education and Research, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Chitra Selvan
- Department of Endocrinology, MS Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Belinda George
- Department of Endocrinology, St. John’s Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Pramila Kalra
- Department of Endocrinology, MS Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Shruti Chandrasekaran
- Consultant Endocrinologist and Diabetologist, Dr. Rela Institute of Medical Center, (RIMC), Chrompet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Gagan Priya
- Consultant Endocrinologist, Fortis Hospital, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Suja Sukumar
- Consultant Endocrinologist, Renai Medicity, Cochin, Kerala, India
| | - Debmalya Sanyal
- Department of Endocrinology, KPC Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Federici S, Goggi G, Quinton R, Giovanelli L, Persani L, Cangiano B, Bonomi M. New and Consolidated Therapeutic Options for Pubertal Induction in Hypogonadism: In-depth Review of the Literature. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:824-851. [PMID: 34864951 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Delayed puberty (DP) defines a retardation of onset/progression of sexual maturation beyond the expected age from either a lack/delay of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis activation or a gonadal failure. DP usually gives rise to concern and uncertainty in patients and their families, potentially affecting their immediate psychosocial well-being and also creating longer term psychosexual sequelae. The most frequent form of DP in younger teenagers is self-limiting and may not need any intervention. Conversely, DP from hypogonadism requires prompt and specific treatment that we summarize in this review. Hormone therapy primarily targets genital maturation, development of secondary sexual characteristics, and the achievement of target height in line with genetic potential, but other key standards of care include body composition and bone mass. Finally, pubertal induction should promote psychosexual development and mitigate both short- and long-term impairments comprising low self-esteem, social withdrawal, depression, and psychosexual difficulties. Different therapeutic options for pubertal induction have been described for both males and females, but we lack the necessary larger randomized trials to define the best approaches for both sexes. We provide an in-depth and updated literature review regarding therapeutic options for inducing puberty in males and females, particularly focusing on recent therapeutic refinements that better encompass the heterogeneity of this population, and underlining key differences in therapeutic timing and goals. We also highlight persistent shortcomings in clinical practice, wherein strategies directed at "the child with delayed puberty of uncertain etiology" risk being misapplied to older adolescents likely to have permanent hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Federici
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Goggi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 4LP, UK.,Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 4EP, UK
| | - Luca Giovanelli
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Biagio Cangiano
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy.,Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20100 Milan, Italy
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Reddy R, Lizama-Hernández S, Port A. “Localized Rhabdomyolysis Associated with Testosterone Enanthate for Gender Affirming Hormonal Therapy”. AACE Clin Case Rep 2022; 8:264-266. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aace.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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Figueiredo MG, Gagliano-Jucá T, Basaria S. Testosterone Therapy With Subcutaneous Injections: A Safe, Practical, and Reasonable Option. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:614-626. [PMID: 34698352 PMCID: PMC9006970 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Injections with intramuscular (IM) testosterone esters have been available for almost 8 decades and not only result in predictable serum testosterone levels but are also the most inexpensive modality. However, they are difficult to self-administer and associated with some discomfort. Recently, subcutaneous (SC) administration of testosterone esters has gained popularity, as self-administration is easier with this route. Available data, though limited, support the feasibility of this route. Here we review the pharmacokinetics and safety of SC testosterone therapy with both long- and ultralong-acting testosterone esters. In addition, we provide guidance for clinicians on how to counsel and manage their patients who opt for the SC route. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION Systematic review of available literature on SC testosterone administration including clinical trials, case series, and case reports. We also review the pharmacology of testosterone absorption after SC administration. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Available evidence, though limited, suggests that SC testosterone therapy in doses similar to those given via IM route results in comparable pharmacokinetics and mean serum testosterone levels. With appropriate training, patients should be able to safely self-administer testosterone esters SC with relative ease and less discomfort compared with the IM route. CONCLUSION Although studies directly comparing the safety of SC vs IM administration of testosterone esters are desirable, clinicians should consider discussing the SC route with their patients because it is easier to self-administer and has the potential to improve patient adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shehzad Basaria
- Correspondence: Shehzad Basaria, MD, Research Program in Men’s Health: Aging and Metabolism, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, BLI 541, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Laurenzano SE, Newfield RS, Lee E, Marinkovic M. Subcutaneous Testosterone Is Effective and Safe as Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy in Transmasculine and Gender-Diverse Adolescents and Young Adults: A Single Center's 8-Year Experience. Transgend Health 2022; 6:343-352. [PMID: 34988290 PMCID: PMC8664110 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2020.0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To describe our Center's 8-year experience with subcutaneous testosterone (SC-T) as gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in transmasculine and gender-diverse (TM/GD) youth. Methods: An Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved retrospective study for 119 TM/GD subjects who started SC-T at age 13–19 and received SC-T for >6 months between 2012 and 2020. Results: SC-T was typically started at 25–50 mg biweekly and dose was escalated at provider's discretion. Over 96% of subjects were on 100–320 mg monthly (divided weekly or biweekly) at last follow-up. There was an overall increase in mean total and free testosterone (T) over the dose range (p=0.003), with mean total and free T levels of 460 ng/dL and 92 pg/mL, respectively, at a monthly SC-T dose of 200 mg. For subjects on SC-T without additional menstrual suppression, 54% had cessation of menses at 140 mg monthly and 97% at 200 mg monthly. On average, menses stopped 4.7 (standard deviation 3.0) months after starting SC-T. There was a decrease in high-density lipoprotein and increase in hematocrit from baseline to follow-up. Body mass index Z-scores did not change significantly with treatment. Mild acne was common; severe acne and significant injection site reactions were uncommon. Sustained hypertension, transaminitis, and dyslipidemia were infrequent. Conclusions: SC-T is well tolerated and effective in reaching recommended T levels and stopping menses in TM/GD youth. Occurrence of serious adverse effects is low and inability to tolerate injections is very uncommon. SC-T is a safe and effective alternative to intramuscular testosterone in initiation and maintenance of GAHT in TM/GD youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Laurenzano
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Ron S Newfield
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Euyhyun Lee
- Division of Biostatistics, Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Maja Marinkovic
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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10
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Breslow J. They would have transitioned me: third conditional TERF grammar of trans childhood. FEMINIST THEORY 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/14647001211046442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Some of the most virulent public trans-exclusionary radical feminist (TERF) discourse in the UK follows the grammatical form of the third conditional: if I had grown up now, I would have been persuaded to transition. This articulation of the hypothetical threat of a transition that did not happen but is imagined, in retrospect, to be not just possible but forcibly enacted plays an important role, both politically and psychically, in a contemporary political landscape that is threatening the livelihoods of trans children. Interrogating this discourse via an analysis of an open letter by J.K. Rowling, and a documentary by Stella O’Malley, this article asks: what might we learn about contemporary transphobia in the UK if we took seriously the grammar of TERF discourse animated by trans childhood? It argues that while the third conditional grammar of TERF discourse could articulate a politics of solidarity between cis and trans positionalities and politics, its potential for a shared political standpoint is routinely interrupted by the defence mechanisms that are oriented by the psychic life of the child. Interrogating these defence mechanisms at the level of the cultural, the article traces out paranoia (as reading practice and psychic state) as well as projection, as two main modes of TERF engagement with trans childhood. The article thus engages with the range of real and fantasmatic impossibilities that haunt the trans child both in the present and the past, and it contributes to the growing body of scholarship on trans childhoods. In doing so, it makes the case that public discourse on trans children should desist from hypothetical third conditional claims, and instead find ways of embracing trans childhoods unconditionally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Breslow
- Department of Gender Studies, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK
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11
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Chioma L, Cappa M. Hypogonadism in Male Infants and Adolescents: New Androgen Formulations. Horm Res Paediatr 2021; 96:581-589. [PMID: 34915486 DOI: 10.1159/000521455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male hypogonadism may be associated with micropenis and cryptorchidism in newborn, absent or incomplete pubertal development when it occurs during childhood. During puberty, androgen replacement therapy plays a pivotal role in subjects with hypogonadism to induce sexual maturation, growth acceleration, anabolic effects on fat-free mass growth increasing muscle strength, directly and indirectly on the attainment of peak bone mass in young men. Moreover, in newborns with congenital hypogonadism, androgen therapy could be effective to increase genital size. SUMMARY Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) represents the cornerstone of the management of hypogonadism in boys. During puberty, replacement therapy needs to be modulated with gradual dosing increase to better mimic the physiologic pubertal development. Currently, intramuscular testosterone (T) esters (in particular testosterone enanthate) and subcutaneous T pellets are the only formulations approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for delayed puberty, while no preparation is approved for long-term use in the adolescent age. Several new T formulations (as transdermal, nasal, subcutaneous, and oral formulation) are recently developed to improve the pharmacokinetic profile and to ease the administration route increasing patient compliance in adult males with hypogonadism. All these formulations are not approved for pediatric age, although some of them are used as "off-label" regimens. This special issue is aimed to illustrate new T formulations and their potential role as replacement therapy in the pediatric population, as well as to highlight investigational areas to contribute to health care improvement in these patients. KEY MESSAGES Despite the lack of evidence-based guidelines regarding the choice of T formulation in the pediatric population, new formulations appear to have a potential role for TRT in adolescent age. They have been designed for adult age with a little flexibility of dosage, although a few formulations may be attractive for pubertal induction and penile enlargement thanks to their greater flexibility and easing of administration. On the other hand, long-acting and stable formulations could meet post-pubertal needs, increasing TRT compliance in a critical phase as the adolescent age. Further controlled, long-term safety, and efficacy studies for all these new T formulations within the pediatric population are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Chioma
- Endocrinology Unit, University Pediatric Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Cappa
- Endocrinology Unit, University Pediatric Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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12
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Webb AJ, McManus D, Rouse GE, Vonderheyde R, Topal JE. Implications for medication dosing for transgender patients: A review of the literature and recommendations for pharmacists. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2020; 77:427-433. [PMID: 32012216 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxz355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Transgender patients face considerable healthcare disparities. Improved means of recognizing transgender patients and understanding their medical needs is important to provide optimal care. The electronic medical record (EMR) of our health system allows for differentiation of gender identity, legal sex, and sex at birth. With EMR recognition of transgender patients, a recommendation for estimating creatinine clearance (CLcr) and ideal body weight (IBW) was needed to standardize medication dosing. SUMMARY The literature was reviewed for evidence on the effect of gender-affirming hormone therapy on serum creatinine concentration and lean body mass. Findings informed a recommendation for drug dosing based on CLcr and IBW in transgender patients. Four studies that reported the effect of hormone therapy on biometric laboratory values were found. Three studies reported that values of transgender patients more closely resembled the standard values of their gender identity vs sex at birth after hormone therapy; 1 study reported a range of values that more closely resembled those associated with sex at birth while still overlapping with values associated with gender identity. Consequently, it was recommended that pharmacists dose medications based on CLcr and IBW calculations consistent with gender identity after a patient has been on hormone therapy for 6 months or longer. CONCLUSION Providing optimal care to transgender patients includes considering the effect of gender-affirming hormone therapy on overall physiology. Consistently using the appropriate CLcr and IBW calculations for each patient ensures safe and effective care. Additional studies are needed to confirm the effect of hormone therapy on renal clearance and lean body mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Webb
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Dayna McManus
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT
| | - Ginger E Rouse
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT
| | - Robyn Vonderheyde
- Information Technology Services, Yale New Haven Health System, New Haven, CT
| | - Jeffrey E Topal
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT.,Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
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13
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Effects of gender affirming hormone therapy on body mass index in transgender individuals: A longitudinal cohort study. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL ENDOCRINOLOGY 2020; 21:100230. [PMID: 32685379 PMCID: PMC7358708 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcte.2020.100230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Many transgender people take hormone therapy to affirm their gender identity. One potential long-term consequence of gender affirming hormone therapy is increased body mass index (BMI), which may be associated with metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease and higher mortality. Only a few published studies explored changes in BMI in transgender people taking gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). Objective To examine the changes in BMI longitudinally in response to GAHT in transgender women and men. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of transgender individuals who received GAHT from the endocrinology clinic between January 1, 2000 and September 6, 2018. Subjects who sought GAHT were included if they had two separate measurements of BMI and were excluded if they had a BMI greater than 35 kg/m2 or were missing demographic data at entry. We used a linear mixed model to analyze the longitudinal change in BMI. Results There were a total of 227 subjects included in this cohort. Among subjects already on GAHT, transgender women were receiving GAHT longer than transgender men (6.59 ± 9.35 vs 3.67 ± 3.43 years, p-value = 0.04). Over the period of 7 years, there was a significant increase in BMI in transwomen who newly initiated GAHT (p-value 0.004). There were no changes in BMI in transgender men and women already on GAHT or in transgender men who newly initiated GAHT in the study. Conclusion We conclude that BMI significantly increases in transwomen but not in transmen after initiation of GAHT in a single center based in the United States. In transwomen and transmen, BMI appears to be stable following 3 to 6 years of GAHT. Future investigations should examine the causes for increased BMI in transgender women including type of GAHT, diet and lifestyle, and association with risk of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.
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14
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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: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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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15
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Kidd KM, Thornburgh C, Casey CF, Murray PJ. Providing Care for Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth. Prim Care 2020; 47:273-290. [PMID: 32423714 DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse youth (TGDY) experience modifiable health disparities and difficulty accessing the physical and mental health care systems. Providers and staff should understand the unique needs of this population and provide affirming spaces where these resilient young people can thrive. In addition to addressing social, setting, and system level barriers to access, providers should consider offering comprehensive gender care because this reduces barriers to medical services and can improve health outcomes. This article educates providers about TGDY, reviews the role of mental health care, and provides an overview of medical interventions for gender affirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kacie M Kidd
- Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Health, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Caitlin Thornburgh
- Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Health, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Catherine F Casey
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Virginia, 1215 Lee Street, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Pamela J Murray
- Department of Pediatrics, West Virginia University, PO Box 9214, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
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16
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Hodax JK, Wagner J, Sackett-Taylor AC, Rafferty J, Forcier M. Medical Options for Care of Gender Diverse and Transgender Youth. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2020; 33:3-9. [PMID: 31154017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2019.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Increasing numbers of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth are presenting for medical care, including seeking more information and access to services from gynecologic and reproductive health experts. Such experts are well positioned to provide affirming, comprehensive services, including education, hormonal interventions, menstrual management, contraception, and various gynecological procedures. Early medical guidance and support for the TGD community has been associated with long-term positive emotional and physical health outcomes. In this article medical interventions that reproductive health experts can offer to their TGD patients are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanita K Hodax
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Division of Endocrinology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington.
| | - Jill Wagner
- Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Division of Adolescent Medicine, Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Jason Rafferty
- Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Division of Adolescent Medicine, Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island; Department of Child Psychiatry, Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, Riverside, Rhode Island; Department of Pediatrics, Thundermist Health Centers, Woonsocket, Rhode Island
| | - Michelle Forcier
- Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Division of Adolescent Medicine, Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
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17
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Agana MG, Greydanus DE, Indyk JA, Calles JL, Kushner J, Leibowitz S, Chelvakumar G, Cabral MD. Caring for the transgender adolescent and young adult: Current concepts of an evolving process in the 21st century. Dis Mon 2019; 65:303-356. [DOI: 10.1016/j.disamonth.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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18
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Turner L, Ly LP, Desai R, Singh GKS, Handelsman TD, Savkovic S, Fennell C, Jayadev V, Conway A, Handelsman DJ. Pharmacokinetics and Acceptability of Subcutaneous Injection of Testosterone Undecanoate. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1531-1540. [PMID: 31384715 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Can injectable testosterone undecanoate (TU) be administered effectively and acceptably by the subcutaneous (SC) route? Objective To investigate the acceptability and pharmacokinetics (PK) of SC injection of TU. Design Randomized sequence, crossover clinical study of SC vs IM TU injections. Setting Ambulatory clinic of an academic andrology center. Participants Twenty men (11 hypogonadal, 9 transgender men) who were long-term users of TU. injections. Intervention: Injection of 1000 mg TU (in 4 mL castor oil vehicle) by SC or IM route. Main Outcome Measures: Patient-reported pain, acceptability, and preference scales. PK by measurement of serum testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estradiol (E2) concentrations with application of population PK methods and dried blood spot (DBS) sampling. Results Pain was greater after SC compared with IM injection 24 hours (but not immediately) after injection but both routes were equally acceptable. Ultimately 11 preferred IM, 6 preferred SC, and 3 had no preference. The DBS-based PK analysis of serum testosterone revealed a later time of peak testosterone concentration after SC vs IM injection (8.0 vs 3.3 days) but no significant route differences in model-predicted peak testosterone concentration (8.4 vs 9.6 ng/mL) or mean resident time (183 vs 110 days). The PK of venous serum testosterone, DHT, and E2 did not differ according to route of injection. Conclusions We conclude that SC TU injection is acceptable but produces greater pain 24 hours after injection that may contribute to the overall majority preference for the IM injection. The PK of testosterone, DHT, or E2 did not differ substantially between SC and IM routes. Hence whereas further studies are required, the SC route represents an alternative to IM injections without a need to change dose for men for whom IM injection is not desired or recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Turner
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lam P Ly
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Reena Desai
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gurmeet K S Singh
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam, Malaysia
| | - Timothy D Handelsman
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sasha Savkovic
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Carolyn Fennell
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Veena Jayadev
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ann Conway
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David J Handelsman
- Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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19
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Abstract
Prescribing gender-affirming hormonal therapy in transgender men (TM) not only induces desirable physical effects but also benefits mental health. In TM, testosterone therapy is aimed at achieving cisgender male serum testosterone to induce virilization. Testosterone therapy is safe on the short term and middle term if adequate endocrinological follow-up is provided. Transgender medicine is not a strong part of the medical curriculum, although a large number of transgender persons will search for some kind of gender-affirming care. Because hormonal therapy has beneficial effects, all endocrinologists or hormone-prescribing physicians should be able to provide gender-affirming hormonal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium.
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium
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20
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Abstract
There are an estimated 1.4 million transgender adults in the United States, and lack of providers knowledgeable in transgender care is a barrier to health care. Obstetricians and Gynecologists can help increase access in part by becoming competent in gender-affirming hormone therapy. For transgender men, testosterone protocols can be extrapolated from those used for hypogonadal cisgender men. Unfortunately, there are not any high-quality, long-term prospective studies on the effectiveness and safety of different testosterone regimens specifically in transgender men, but the available data suggest that gender-affirming testosterone therapy is safe and effective with proper screening and monitoring.
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21
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T'Sjoen G, Arcelus J, Gooren L, Klink DT, Tangpricha V. Endocrinology of Transgender Medicine. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:97-117. [PMID: 30307546 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Gender-affirming treatment of transgender people requires a multidisciplinary approach in which endocrinologists play a crucial role. The aim of this paper is to review recent data on hormonal treatment of this population and its effect on physical, psychological, and mental health. The Endocrine Society guidelines for transgender women include estrogens in combination with androgen-lowering medications. Feminizing treatment with estrogens and antiandrogens has desired physical changes, such as enhanced breast growth, reduction of facial and body hair growth, and fat redistribution in a female pattern. Possible side effects should be discussed with patients, particularly those at risk for venous thromboembolism. The Endocrine Society guidelines for transgender men include testosterone therapy for virilization with deepening of the voice, cessation of menses, and increases of muscle mass and facial and body hair. Owing to the lack of evidence, treatment of gender nonbinary people should be individualized. Young people may receive pubertal suspension, consisting of GnRH analogs, later followed by sex steroids. Options for fertility preservation should be discussed before any hormonal intervention. Morbidity and cardiovascular risk with cross-sex hormones is unchanged among transgender men and unclear among transgender women. Sex steroid-related malignancies can occur but are rare. Mental health problems such as depression and anxiety have been found to reduce considerably following hormonal treatment. Future studies should aim to explore the long-term outcome of hormonal treatment in transgender people and provide evidence as to the effect of gender-affirming treatment in the nonbinary population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jon Arcelus
- Institute of Mental Health, Jubilee Campus, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Nottingham Centre for Transgender Health, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Louis Gooren
- University Hospital, Vrije Universiteit of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Vin Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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22
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Chew D, Anderson J, Williams K, May T, Pang K. Hormonal Treatment in Young People With Gender Dysphoria: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics 2018. [PMID: 29514975 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2017-3742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Hormonal interventions are being increasingly used to treat young people with gender dysphoria, but their effects in this population have not been systematically reviewed before. OBJECTIVE To review evidence for the physical, psychosocial, and cognitive effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs (GnRHa), gender-affirming hormones, antiandrogens, and progestins on transgender adolescents. DATA SOURCES We searched Medline, Embase, and PubMed databases from January 1, 1946, to June 10, 2017. STUDY SELECTION We selected primary studies in which researchers examined the hormonal treatment of transgender adolescents and assessed their psychosocial, cognitive, and/or physical effects. DATA EXTRACTION Two authors independently screened studies for inclusion and extracted data from eligible articles using a standardized recording form. RESULTS Thirteen studies met our inclusion criteria, in which researchers examined GnRHas (n = 9), estrogen (n = 3), testosterone (n = 5), antiandrogen (cyproterone acetate) (n = 1), and progestin (lynestrenol) (n = 1). Most treatments successfully achieved their intended physical effects, with GnRHas and cyproterone acetate suppressing sex hormones and estrogen or testosterone causing feminization or masculinization of secondary sex characteristics. GnRHa treatment was associated with improvement across multiple measures of psychological functioning but not gender dysphoria itself, whereas the psychosocial effects of gender-affirming hormones in transgender youth have not yet been adequately assessed. LIMITATIONS There are few studies in this field and they have all been observational. CONCLUSIONS Low-quality evidence suggests that hormonal treatments for transgender adolescents can achieve their intended physical effects, but evidence regarding their psychosocial and cognitive impact are generally lacking. Future research to address these knowledge gaps and improve understanding of the long-term effects of these treatments is required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jemma Anderson
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- Departments of Pediatrics and.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tamara May
- Departments of Pediatrics and.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia; and
| | - Kenneth Pang
- Departments of Pediatrics and .,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Psychiatry, Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Inflammation Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Australia
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23
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Wilson DM, Kiang TKL, Ensom MHH. Pharmacokinetics, safety, and patient acceptability of subcutaneous versus intramuscular testosterone injection for gender-affirming therapy: A pilot study. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2018; 75:351-358. [PMID: 29367424 DOI: 10.2146/ajhp170160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Results of a study comparing testosterone exposure and tolerability with subcutaneous versus i.m. administration are presented. METHODS In a prospective, open-label, crossover study, adult participants already on stable i.m. testosterone gender-affirming therapy self-injected testosterone cypionate or enanthate i.m. for 3 weeks followed by subcutaneous injections for 8 weeks. Trough serum testosterone concentrations were determined weekly, and serial total serum testosterone (TST) concentrations were determined on postinjection days 1, 3, and 5 of weeks 3 and 11. Hemoglobin and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels were measured at week 3 (the first visit), with repeat measurements at week 11 (the final visit). The dose-normalized area under the time-concentration curve (AUC) was calculated during weeks 3 and 11. RESULTS Fourteen transgender males (mean age, 30 ± 10 years) participated in the study. The mean hemoglobin values at the first and final visits were 160 ± 9 and 153 ± 9 g/L, respectively (p > 0.05); the mean ALT values were 18 ± 6 and 21 ± 10 IU/L (p > 0.05). Total testosterone exposure was comparable with subcutaneous versus i.m. injection (mean AUC, 1.7 ± 0.6 nmol·days/L/mg versus 1.9 ± 0.6 nmol·days/L/mg; p > 0.05). Information collected via weekly questionnaires indicated that the subcutaneous route was more tolerable, with lower self-reported scores for preinjection anxiety, pain during injection, and postinjection pain. CONCLUSION The subcutaneous route for the injection of testosterone was well tolerated and appeared to be as effective as i.m. injection in delivering equivalent TST levels, although there was wide intrapatient and interpatient variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Wilson
- Vancouver Coastal Health Authority-Vancouver Community, Vancouver, Canada .,Department of Family Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Tony K L Kiang
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Mary H H Ensom
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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24
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Hembree WC, Cohen-Kettenis PT, Gooren L, Hannema SE, Meyer WJ, Murad MH, Rosenthal SM, Safer JD, Tangpricha V, T'Sjoen GG. Endocrine Treatment of Gender-Dysphoric/Gender-Incongruent Persons: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:3869-3903. [PMID: 28945902 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-01658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1147] [Impact Index Per Article: 163.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To update the "Endocrine Treatment of Transsexual Persons: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline," published by the Endocrine Society in 2009. PARTICIPANTS The participants include an Endocrine Society-appointed task force of nine experts, a methodologist, and a medical writer. EVIDENCE This evidence-based guideline was developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach to describe the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence. The task force commissioned two systematic reviews and used the best available evidence from other published systematic reviews and individual studies. CONSENSUS PROCESS Group meetings, conference calls, and e-mail communications enabled consensus. Endocrine Society committees, members and cosponsoring organizations reviewed and commented on preliminary drafts of the guidelines. CONCLUSION Gender affirmation is multidisciplinary treatment in which endocrinologists play an important role. Gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent persons seek and/or are referred to endocrinologists to develop the physical characteristics of the affirmed gender. They require a safe and effective hormone regimen that will (1) suppress endogenous sex hormone secretion determined by the person's genetic/gonadal sex and (2) maintain sex hormone levels within the normal range for the person's affirmed gender. Hormone treatment is not recommended for prepubertal gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent persons. Those clinicians who recommend gender-affirming endocrine treatments-appropriately trained diagnosing clinicians (required), a mental health provider for adolescents (required) and mental health professional for adults (recommended)-should be knowledgeable about the diagnostic criteria and criteria for gender-affirming treatment, have sufficient training and experience in assessing psychopathology, and be willing to participate in the ongoing care throughout the endocrine transition. We recommend treating gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent adolescents who have entered puberty at Tanner Stage G2/B2 by suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists. Clinicians may add gender-affirming hormones after a multidisciplinary team has confirmed the persistence of gender dysphoria/gender incongruence and sufficient mental capacity to give informed consent to this partially irreversible treatment. Most adolescents have this capacity by age 16 years old. We recognize that there may be compelling reasons to initiate sex hormone treatment prior to age 16 years, although there is minimal published experience treating prior to 13.5 to 14 years of age. For the care of peripubertal youths and older adolescents, we recommend that an expert multidisciplinary team comprised of medical professionals and mental health professionals manage this treatment. The treating physician must confirm the criteria for treatment used by the referring mental health practitioner and collaborate with them in decisions about gender-affirming surgery in older adolescents. For adult gender-dysphoric/gender-incongruent persons, the treating clinicians (collectively) should have expertise in transgender-specific diagnostic criteria, mental health, primary care, hormone treatment, and surgery, as needed by the patient. We suggest maintaining physiologic levels of gender-appropriate hormones and monitoring for known risks and complications. When high doses of sex steroids are required to suppress endogenous sex steroids and/or in advanced age, clinicians may consider surgically removing natal gonads along with reducing sex steroid treatment. Clinicians should monitor both transgender males (female to male) and transgender females (male to female) for reproductive organ cancer risk when surgical removal is incomplete. Additionally, clinicians should persistently monitor adverse effects of sex steroids. For gender-affirming surgeries in adults, the treating physician must collaborate with and confirm the criteria for treatment used by the referring physician. Clinicians should avoid harming individuals (via hormone treatment) who have conditions other than gender dysphoria/gender incongruence and who may not benefit from the physical changes associated with this treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wylie C Hembree
- New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | | | - Louis Gooren
- VU University Medical Center, 1007 MB Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Walter J Meyer
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555
| | - M Hassan Murad
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-Based Practice Center, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | - Stephen M Rosenthal
- University of California San Francisco, Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Joshua D Safer
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02118
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Emory University School of Medicine and the Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia 30322
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25
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McFarland J, Craig W, Clarke NJ, Spratt DI. Serum Testosterone Concentrations Remain Stable Between Injections in Patients Receiving Subcutaneous Testosterone. J Endocr Soc 2017; 1:1095-1103. [PMID: 29264562 PMCID: PMC5686655 DOI: 10.1210/js.2017-00148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Intramuscular (IM) testosterone is the most common modality for testosterone therapy of both male hypogonadism and female-to-male (FTM) gender transition. However, IM injections can be painful and often are not self-administered by the patient. The objective of this study was to further characterize subcutaneous (SC) administration of testosterone as an effective and safe alternative to IM injections by evaluating the pharmacodynamics of serum total and free testosterone concentrations between weekly testosterone injections. Methods: Eleven FTM transgender patients already receiving weekly SC testosterone cypionate with documented therapeutic levels prior to enrollment had free and total serum testosterone levels measured at eight different time points during a 1-week dosing interval. Results: Mean levels of total and free testosterone were stable and remained well within the normal range between injections. Overall mean ± standard deviation levels for the seven samples taken between injections were 627 ± 206 ng/dL (range, 205 to 1410) for total testosterone and 146 ± 51 pg/mL (range, 38 to 348) for free testosterone. No adverse effects were encountered. Conclusions: The results of this study support use of SC testosterone to achieve therapeutic and stable serum testosterone levels for the purpose of gender transition. It is anticipated that these results can be extended to hypogonadal men. This route may be preferred over IM testosterone because it is relatively painless and easy to self-inject thus allowing for the convenience and economy of patient self-administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie McFarland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine 04102
| | - Wendy Craig
- Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04074
| | | | - Daniel I Spratt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine 04102
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26
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Spratt DI, Stewart II, Savage C, Craig W, Spack NP, Chandler DW, Spratt LV, Eimicke T, Olshan JS. Subcutaneous Injection of Testosterone Is an Effective and Preferred Alternative to Intramuscular Injection: Demonstration in Female-to-Male Transgender Patients. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:2349-2355. [PMID: 28379417 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Testosterone (T) is commonly administered intramuscularly to treat hypogonadal males and female-to-male (FTM) transgender patients. However, these injections can involve significant discomfort and may require arrangements for administration by others. OBJECTIVE We assessed whether T could be administered effectively and safely subcutaneously as an alternative to intramuscular (IM) injections. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Outpatient reproductive endocrinology clinic at an academic medical center. PATIENTS Sixty-three FTM transgender patients aged >18 years electing to receive subcutaneous (SC) T therapy for sex transition were included. Fifty-three patients were premenopausal. INTERVENTION Patients were administered T cypionate or enanthate weekly at an initial dose of 50 mg. Dose was adjusted if needed to achieve serum total T levels within the normal male range. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Serum concentrations of free and total T and total estradiol (E2), masculinization, and surveillance for reactions at injection sites. RESULTS Serum T levels within the normal male range were achieved in all 63 patients with doses of 50 to 150 mg (median, 75/80 mg). Therapy was effective across a wide range of body mass index (19.0 to 49.9 kg/m2). Minor and transient local reactions were reported in 9 out of 63 patients. Among 53 premenopausal patients, 51 achieved amenorrhea and 35 achieved serum E2 concentrations <50 pg/mL. Twenty-two patients were originally receiving IM and switched to SC therapy. All 22 had a mild (n = 2) or marked (n = 20) preference for SC injections; none preferred IM injections. CONCLUSIONS Our observations indicate that SC T injections are an effective, safe, and well-accepted alternative to IM T injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel I Spratt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine 04102
| | - India I Stewart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine 04102
| | - Clara Savage
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine 04102
| | - Wendy Craig
- Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine 04704
| | - Norman P Spack
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | | | - Lindsey V Spratt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine 04102
| | - Toni Eimicke
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine 04102
| | - Jerrold S Olshan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine 04102
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Gorton RN, Erickson-Schroth L. Hormonal and Surgical Treatment Options for Transgender Men (Female-to-Male). Psychiatr Clin North Am 2017; 40:79-97. [PMID: 28159147 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Untreated transgender men face serious negative health care outcomes. Effective medical, surgical, and mental health treatment ameliorates these risks. Although the research is not as robust as would be ideal, hormone treatment is effective and generally well tolerated with few serious medical risks. Surgeries carry serious risks; but for most transgender men, the benefits outweigh the risks. This review describes current evidence-based medical treatments for transgender men and provides an overview of surgical therapy to enable practitioners to discuss these options with their transgender male patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Nicholas Gorton
- Lyon-Martin Health Services, 1748 Market Street, #201, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA; Touro University California, 1310 Club Drive, Mare Island, Vallejo, CA 94592, USA.
| | - Laura Erickson-Schroth
- Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, 10 Nathan D Perlman Place, New York, NY 10003, USA; Hetrick-Martin Institute, 2 Astor Place, New York, NY 10003, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The transgender community is one of the most marginalized sections of our society. The literature is scarce regarding the pathology and laboratory medicine challenges associated with caring for transgender patients. OBJECTIVE To summarize the available gender-transitioning options and to discuss healthcare challenges, from a pathology/laboratory medicine perspective, in the care of transgender patients. METHOD We reviewed the current terminology and epidemiology relevant to the transgender population in preparing our analysis. CONCLUSIONS The main transgender healthcare challenges in pathology/laboratory medicine practice include the inflexibility of electronic medical records in documenting affirmed gender, unfamiliarity among medical and laboratory professional with the needs of and terminology related to the transgender population, lack of reference ranges for laboratory tests, unclear guidelines regarding gender classification for blood donation eligibility criteria, and paucity of experience in handling and interpreting surgical and cytologic specimens from gender-transitioning individuals. Directed efforts to overcome these shortcomings, coupled with a more welcoming posture, are essential to achieving the highest standards of care for the transgender population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarika Gupta
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Katherine L Imborek
- Department of Family Medicine, Co-Director Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning (LGBTQ) Clinic, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Matthew D Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
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Kaminetsky J, Jaffe JS, Swerdloff RS. Pharmacokinetic Profile of Subcutaneous Testosterone Enanthate Delivered via a Novel, Prefilled Single-Use Autoinjector: A Phase II Study. Sex Med 2015; 3:269-79. [PMID: 26797061 PMCID: PMC4721027 DOI: 10.1002/sm2.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypogonadism is one of the most common male endocrine problems. Although many treatments are currently available, unmet need exists for new testosterone (T) replacement therapies that are simple to administer and use, are safe, and mimic physiologic T levels. AIM The study aim was to determine the pharmacokinetics (PK), safety, and tolerability of T enanthate (TE) administered via a novel single-use autoinjector system, which was designed to eject high-viscosity solutions from a prefilled syringe fitted with a five-eighths-inch 27-gauge needle. METHODS Thirty-nine men with hypogonadism entered this dose-finding, open-label, parallel-group study. Patients were washed out of their topical T regimens and randomized to receive 50 or 100 mg of subcutaneous (SC) TE weekly. The reference group were patients with hypogonadism who were maintained on standard 200-mg intramuscular (IM) TE. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The primary outcome measure was the PK profile of SC TE, analyzed in reference to T levels used by the Food and Drug Administration to approve T products. Secondary outcome measures were safety and tolerability assessments. RESULTS Both doses of SC TE achieved normal average concentrations of serum T within a 168-h dosing interval after injection. Concentration ranges were similar at all time points following 50-mg SC TE injections and following the third injection in the 100-mg arm. Mean steady-state T concentration at week 6 was 422.4 and 895.5 ng/dL for the 50- and 100-mg SC TE arms, respectively. SC TE demonstrated PK dose proportionality. SC TE restored normal serum T with low variation relative to 200-mg IM without clinically significant adverse events. CONCLUSIONS Administration of TE via this novel injection system restored T levels to normal range in men with hypogonadism. SC TE dosed weekly demonstrated steady, dose-proportional measures of exposure and was well-tolerated. Kaminetsky J, Jaffe JS, Swerdloff RS. Pharmacokinetic profile of subcutaneous testosterone enanthate delivered via a novel, prefilled single-use autoinjector: A phase II study. Sex Med 2015;3:263-273.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jed Kaminetsky
- Manhattan Medical Research University Urology New York NY USA
| | | | - Ronald S Swerdloff
- Endocrinology Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute Harbor-University of California Medical Center Torrance CA USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), lipids, and hormone levels in transgender women and men presenting for initiation of cross-sex hormone therapy at a community clinic in the United States. METHODS Twenty-three transgender women (persons assigned male at birth who identify as female and want to use estrogen to develop female secondary sex characteristics) and 34 transgender men (persons assigned female at birth who identify as male and want to use testosterone to develop male secondary sex characteristics) presenting for initiation of hormone therapy at a community health center were enrolled. Body mass index, BP, lipids, and sex hormone levels were measured at baseline and 6 months. Persistence of menses at 6 months in transgender men was recorded. RESULTS Sixteen transgender women and 31 transgender men completed the study. Baseline and 6-month median BPs and lipid values were within a normal clinical range. Median systolic BP in transgender women dropped from baseline 130.5 mmHg (interquartile range 11.5) to 120.5 mmHg (interquartile range 15.5) at 6 months (P=.006). Testosterone levels remained elevated in 33% and estradiol (E2) levels were supratherapeutic in 19% of transgender women at 6 months. Median BMI for transgender men was 29.1 kg/m (interquartile range 11.2) at baseline and 30.0 kg/m (interquartile range 11.4) at 6 months (P=.024). Six-month total testosterone levels were subtherapeutic in 32% and E2 levels remained elevated in 71% of transgender men. CONCLUSION In transgender women, estrogen therapy, with or without antiandrogen therapy, was associated with lower BP. In transgender men, testosterone therapy was associated with increased BMI. The study had insufficient power to detect other associations. Monitoring of hormone levels to guide therapy appears to be useful. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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