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Ruiz-Ochoa D, Guerra-Ruiz AR, García-Unzueta MT, Muñoz-Cacho P, Rodriguez-Montalvan B, Amado-Diago CA, Lavín-Gómez BA, Cano-García ME, Pablo-Marcos D, Vázquez LA. Sex hormones and the total testosterone:estradiol ratio as predictors of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in hospitalized men. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38212146 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The predictive ability of the early determination of sex steroids and the total testosterone:estradiol ratio for the risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 or the potential existence of a biological gradient in this relationship has not been evaluated. OBJECTIVES To assess the relationship of sex steroid levels and the total testosterone:estradiol ratio with the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in men, defined as the need for intensive care unit admission or death, and the predictive ability of each biomarker. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a prospective observational study. We included all consecutive adult men with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections in a single center admitted to a general hospital ward or to the intensive care unit. Sex steroids were evaluated at the centralized laboratory of our hospital. RESULTS We recruited 98 patients, 54 (55.1%) of whom developed severe coronavirus disease in 2019. Compared to patients with nonsevere coronavirus disease 2019, patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 had significantly lower serum levels of total testosterone (111 ± 89 vs. 191 ± 143 ng/dL; p < 0.001), dehydroepiandrosterone (1.69 ± 1.26 vs. 2.96 ± 2.64 ng/mL; p < 0.001), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (91.72 ± 76.20 vs. 134.28 ± 98.261 μg/dL; p = 0.009), significantly higher levels of estradiol (64.61 ± 59.35 vs. 33.78 ± 13.78 pg/mL; p = 0.001), and significantly lower total testosterone:estradiol ratio (0.28 ± 0.31 vs. 0.70 ± 0.75; p < 0.001). The lower the serum level of androgen and the lower the total testosterone:estradiol ratio values, the higher the likelihood of developing severe coronavirus disease 2019, with the linear trend in the adjusted analyses being statistically significant for all parameters except for androstenedione (p = 0.064). In the receiver operating characteristic analysis, better predictive performance was shown by the total testosterone:estradiol ratio, with an area under the curve of 0.77 (95% confidence interval 0.68-0.87; p < 0.001). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our results suggest that men with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, decreased androgen levels and increased estradiol levels have a higher likelihood of developing an unfavorable outcome. The total testosterone:estradiol ratio showed the best predictive ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ruiz-Ochoa
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
| | - Armando-Raúl Guerra-Ruiz
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
- IDIVAL Health Research Institute, Santander, Spain
- University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - María-Teresa García-Unzueta
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
- IDIVAL Health Research Institute, Santander, Spain
- University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Pedro Muñoz-Cacho
- IDIVAL Health Research Institute, Santander, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Psychiatry, Gerencia de Atención Primaria, Servicio Cántabro de Salud, Santander, Spain
| | | | - Carlos Antonio Amado-Diago
- IDIVAL Health Research Institute, Santander, Spain
- University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
- Department of Pneumology, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
| | - Bernardo-Alio Lavín-Gómez
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
- IDIVAL Health Research Institute, Santander, Spain
| | - María-Eliecer Cano-García
- Department of Microbiology, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Servicio Cántabro de Salud, Santander, Spain
| | - Daniel Pablo-Marcos
- Department of Microbiology, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Servicio Cántabro de Salud, Santander, Spain
| | - Luis Alberto Vázquez
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
- IDIVAL Health Research Institute, Santander, Spain
- University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
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Wang L, Dai W, Zhu R, Long T, Zhang Z, Song Z, Mu S, Wang S, Wang H, Lei J, Zhang J, Xia W, Li G, Gao W, Zou H, Li Y, Zhan L. Testosterone and soluble ST2 as mortality predictive biomarkers in male patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 10:1278879. [PMID: 38259843 PMCID: PMC10801257 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1278879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) is characterized by high mortality and poor outcomes. This study aimed to explore the relationship between testosterone and soluble ST2 (sST2) and all-cause mortality in patients with SIC. Clinical data from SIC patients at Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from January 2021 and March 2023 were reviewed. Serum testosterone and sST2 were measured at admission. Kaplan-Meier analysis and receiver operative characteristic curve (ROC) were used to estimate the predictive values of testosterone and sST2 on 28 days and 90 days mortality of SIC. A total of 327 male subjects with SIC were enrolled in this study. During the 28 days and 90 days follow-up, 87 (26.6%) and 103 deaths (31.5%) occurred, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed significantly higher 28 days and 90 days survival in patients with higher testosterone and decreased sST2 levels (p < 0.001). Testosterone, sST2, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) were significantly associated with 28 days and 90 days mortality (p < 0.05). Partial correlation analysis showed strong positive correlation between testosterone and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (p < 0.001), and negative correlation between testosterone and sST2 (p < 0.001), high-sensitivity troponin I (hs-TnI) levels (p < 0.001) and smoke history (p < 0.01). The concentrations of sST2 were positively related with E/e' ratio (p < 0.001), and negatively correlated with TAPSE (p < 0.001). The combination of testosterone and sST2 enhanced the prediction of both 28 days [area under the ROC curve (AUC), 0.805] and 90 days mortality (AUC, 0.833). Early serum testosterone and sST2 levels could predict mortality of SIC independently and jointly. Further research is needed to determine the utility of biochemical markers in identifying high-risk patients with SIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wen Dai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ruiyao Zhu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Long
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhaocai Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhenju Song
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sucheng Mu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shasha Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Huijuan Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaxi Lei
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenfang Xia
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guang Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenwei Gao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Handong Zou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liying Zhan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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3
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Fujiwara S, Kosaka T, Nishimoto Y, Kamisawa K, Watanabe K, Baba Y, Takeda T, Matsumoto K, Oya M. Prognostic significance of serum testosterone level in patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer treated with cabazitaxel. Prostate 2024; 84:25-31. [PMID: 37661578 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serum testosterone level is a potential prognostic marker for castration-resistant prostate cancer. However, its role as a prognostic marker in cabazitaxel chemotherapy remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the clinical significance of serum testosterone levels before cabazitaxel chemotherapy. METHODS This single-institution, retrospective study included 47 patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) who received cabazitaxel therapy. Serum testosterone levels were measured before the initiation of cabazitaxel therapy. RESULTS Progression-free survival and overall survival (OS) were not significantly different between patients with high and low serum testosterone levels. Analysis of patients aged <70 years revealed that those with high serum testosterone levels (total testosterone level > 0.055 ng/mL) had significantly longer OS than those with low serum testosterone levels (total testosterone level < 0.055 ng/mL, p = 0.012). Multivariate analysis revealed that low serum testosterone levels (hazard ratio [HR] = 11.874, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.076-67.953, p = 0.005) and high prostate-specific antigen levels (HR = 18.051, 95% CI 2.462-132.347, p = 0.004) in the pretreatment phase were independent prognostic factors for OS in patients receiving cabazitaxel therapy. CONCLUSIONS Serum testosterone level may be a prognostic marker for cabazitaxel therapy in patients with mCRPC who are younger than 70 years, and high serum testosterone levels may lead to longer survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinnosuke Fujiwara
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeo Kosaka
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Nishimoto
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken Kamisawa
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keitaro Watanabe
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuto Baba
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshikazu Takeda
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Matsumoto
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mototsugu Oya
- Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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4
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Zhang L, Sun X, Feng Y, Ma F. Association of the androgens with COVID-19 prognostic outcomes: a systematic review. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:152. [PMID: 37605265 PMCID: PMC10440898 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01168-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The coronavirus disease 2019 was a global public health emergency in later years (from 2020 to early 2022), and androgens have been associated with infection and prognostic outcomes. However, the relationship between low serum testosterone levels and prognostic outcomes remains inconclusive. This systematic review aimed to investigate the relationship between serum testosterone levels and prognostic outcomes in patients with COVID-19. METHODS We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science electronic databases for all literature from January 1, 2020, to September 1, 2022. In addition, we also searched literature manually. The search terms were COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), androgens, and testosterone. There were no language restrictions for retrieval. RESULTS Our search identified 2285 articles, resulting in a full-text analysis of 16 studies, including 12 cohort studies and four case-control studies. Low serum testosterone levels were observed to be statistically associated with a higher probability of intensive care unit (ICU) admission in seven studies. In eight studies, higher hospital mortality was associated with lower serum testosterone levels. Six studies found that low serum testosterone levels were associated with a statistically significant difference in lung function impairment. Only four studies found that among living patients, those with lower serum testosterone levels had longer hospital stays. All but one of the included studies had a low risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS Based on available data, low serum testosterone levels are associated with higher rates of ICU admission, hospital mortality, risk of lung failure, inflammatory markers, and longer hospital stays in patients with COVID-19 compared with those having normal serum testosterone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyu Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xinrui Sun
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Ying Feng
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
| | - Fang Ma
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
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5
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Birtolo MF, Vena W, Pizzocaro A, Lavezzi E, Brunetti A, Jaafar S, Betella N, Bossi AC, Mazziotti G, Lania AG. Serum testosterone mirrors inflammation parameters in females hospitalized with COVID-19. J Endocrinol Invest 2023; 46:939-945. [PMID: 36370325 PMCID: PMC9660177 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01957-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While low testosterone (T) was described as a predictor of unfavorable coronavirus-disease 19 (COVID-19) outcome in men, data concerning the role of T in women with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection are scant and limited to small cohorts. This study investigated the relationship between serum T values and outcomes of COVID-19 in a large female hospitalized cohort. METHODS One-hundred-sixty-eight adult women (median age 77, range 18-100 years; 154 in post-menopause) hospitalized for COVID-19 were assessed for PaO2/Fio2 ratio, serum T and inflammatory parameters. RESULTS Median duration for hospital stay was 14.2 days (range 1-115) with overall mortality of 26% (n = 44). Subjects who died were significantly older (p < 0.001), had significantly more comorbidities (p = 0.015) and higher serum T (p = 0.040), white blood cells (p = 0.007), c-reactive protein (CRP; p < 0.001), interleukin-6 (IL-6; p < 0.001), procalcitonin (PCT; p < 0.001), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; p = 0.001), D-dimer (p = 0.035), fibrinogen (p = 0.038) and lower serum free-triiodothyronine (FT3; p < 0.001) and luteinizing hormone (LH; p = 0.024) values. In post-menopausal women, significant associations were observed between T levels and serum CRP (rho: 0.23; p = 0.002), IL-6 (rho: 0.41; p < 0.001), LDH (rho: 0.34; p < 0.001), D-Dimer (rho: 0.21; p = 0.008), PCT (rho: 0.26; p = 0.001) and HDL cholesterol (rho: - 0,22, p = 0.008). In multivariate regression analyses, serum T maintained the significant association with mortality after correction for age, coexistent comorbidities and serum LH and FT3, whereas it was lost after correction for inflammatory parameters. CONCLUSION In females, high serum T levels might be a mirror of inflammatory phenotype and worse COVID-19 course.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F Birtolo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090, Milan, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Milan, Rozzano, Italy
| | - W Vena
- Diabetes Center, Humanitas Gavazzeni Institute, Via M. Gavazzeni 21, 24100, Bergamo, Italy.
| | - A Pizzocaro
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Milan, Rozzano, Italy
| | - E Lavezzi
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Milan, Rozzano, Italy
| | - A Brunetti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090, Milan, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Milan, Rozzano, Italy
| | - S Jaafar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090, Milan, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Milan, Rozzano, Italy
| | - N Betella
- Diabetes Center, Humanitas Gavazzeni Institute, Via M. Gavazzeni 21, 24100, Bergamo, Italy
| | - A C Bossi
- Diabetes Center, Humanitas Gavazzeni Institute, Via M. Gavazzeni 21, 24100, Bergamo, Italy
| | - G Mazziotti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090, Milan, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Milan, Rozzano, Italy
| | - A G Lania
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090, Milan, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Milan, Rozzano, Italy
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Ata B, Vermeulen N, Mocanu E, Gianaroli L, Lundin K, Rautakallio-Hokkanen S, Tapanainen JS, Veiga A. SARS-CoV-2, fertility and assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:177-196. [PMID: 36374645 PMCID: PMC9976972 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on the access to and provision of ART treatments. Gradually, knowledge of the virus and its transmission has become available, allowing ART activities to resume. Still, questions on the impact of the virus on human gametes and fertility remain. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This article summarizes published data, aiming to clarify the impact of SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 disease on human fertility and assisted reproduction, as well as the impact of vaccination, and from this, provide answers to questions that are relevant for people contemplating pregnancy and for health care professionals. SEARCH METHODS PUBMED/MEDLINE and the WHO COVID-19 database were searched from inception to 5 October 2022 with search terms focusing on 'SARS-CoV-2' and gametes, embryos, reproductive function, fertility and ART. Non-English studies and papers published prior to 2020 were excluded, as well as reviews and non-peer reviewed publications. Full papers were assessed for relevance and quality, where feasible. OUTCOMES From the 148 papers included, the following observations were made. The SARS-CoV-2-binding proteins, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and type II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2), are expressed in the testis, but co-expression remains to be proven. There is some evidence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the ejaculate of COVID-19 patients with severe disease, but not in those with mild/moderate disease. SARS-CoV-2 infection can impair spermatogenesis, but this seems to resolve after one spermatogenic cycle. Testosterone levels seem to be lower during and after COVID-19, but long-term data are lacking; disease severity may be associated with testosterone levels. COVID-19 cannot be considered a sexually transmitted disease. There is no co-expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the myometrium, uterus, ovaries or fallopian tubes. Oocytes seem to have the receptors and protease machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, viral RNA in oocytes has not been detected so far. Women contemplating pregnancy following COVID-19 may benefit from screening for thyroid dysfunction. There is a possible (transient) impact of COVID-19 on menstrual patterns. Embryos, and particularly late blastocysts, seem to have the machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most studies have not reported a significant impact of COVID-19 on ovarian reserve, ovarian function or follicular fluid parameters. Previous asymptomatic or mild SARS-CoV-2 infection in females does not seem to negatively affect laboratory and clinical outcomes of ART. There are no data on the minimum required interval, if any, between COVID-19 recovery and ART. There is no evidence of a negative effect of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on semen parameters or spermatogenesis, ovarian function, ovarian reserve or folliculogenesis. A transient effect on the menstrual cycle has been documented. Despite concerns, cross reactivity between anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibodies and Syncytin-1, an essential protein in human implantation, is absent. There is no influence of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine on patients' performance during their immediate subsequent ART cycle. Pregnancy rates post-vaccination are similar to those in unvaccinated patients. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review highlights existing knowledge on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 on fertility and assisted reproduction, but also identifies gaps and offers suggestions for future research. The knowledge presented should help to provide evidence-based advice for practitioners and couples contemplating pregnancy alike, facilitating informed decision-making in an environment of significant emotional turmoil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Ata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,ART Fertility Clinics, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Edgar Mocanu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Rotunda Hospital and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Luca Gianaroli
- Società Italiana Studi di Medicina della Riproduzione, S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Institute, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Kersti Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Juha S Tapanainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oulu University Hospital and Medical Research Centre PEDEGO Research Unit, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anna Veiga
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, IDIBELL Programme for Regenerative Medicine, Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Leni R, Belladelli F, Baldini S, Scroppo FI, Zaffuto E, Antonini G, Montorsi F, Salonia A, Carcano G, Capogrosso P, Dehò F. The Complex Interplay between Serum Testosterone and the Clinical Course of Coronavirus Disease 19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Preclinical Evidence. World J Mens Health 2023:41.e15. [PMID: 36649920 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic, efforts in defining risk factors and associations between the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), clinical, and molecular features have initiated. After three years of pandemic, it became evident that men have higher risk of adverse outcomes. Such evidence provided the impetus for defining the biological fundaments of such a gender disparity. Our objective was to analyze the most recent literature with the aim of defining the relationship between COVID-19 and fertility, in particular, we assessed the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and testosterone in a systematic review of literature from December 2019 (first evidence of a novel coronavirus in the Hubei province) until March 2022. As a fundamental basis for understanding, articles pertaining preclinical aspects explaining the gender disparity (n=9) were included. The main review categories analyzed the risk of being infected with SARS-CoV-2 according to testosterone levels (n=5), the impact of serum testosterone on outcomes of COVID-19 (n=23), and the impact SARS-CoV-2 on testosterone levels after infection (n=19). Preclinical studies mainly evaluated the relation between angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and its androgen-mediated regulation, articles exploring the risk of COVID-19 according to testosterone levels were few. Although most publications evaluating the effect of COVID-19 on fertility found low testosterone levels after the infection, follow-up was short, with some also suggesting no alterations during recovery. More conclusive findings were observed in men with low testosterone levels, that were generally at higher risk of experiencing worse outcomes (i.e., admission to intensive care units, longer hospitalization, and death). Interestingly, an inverse relationship was observed in women, where higher levels of testosterone were associated to worse outcomes. Our finding may provide meaningful insights to better patient counselling and individualization of care pathways in men with testosterone levels suggesting hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Leni
- Department of Urology and Division of Experimental Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Belladelli
- Department of Urology and Division of Experimental Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Emanuele Zaffuto
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,Department of Urology, Circolo & Fondazione Macchi Hospital - ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Gabriele Antonini
- Department of Urology, Sapienza University, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Montorsi
- Department of Urology and Division of Experimental Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Department of Urology and Division of Experimental Oncology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Carcano
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,Department of Surgery, Circolo & Fondazione Macchi Hospital - ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Paolo Capogrosso
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,Department of Urology, Circolo & Fondazione Macchi Hospital - ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy.
| | - Federico Dehò
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,Department of Urology, Circolo & Fondazione Macchi Hospital - ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
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Clausen CL, Holm Johannsen T, Erik Skakkebæk N, Frederiksen H, Ryrsø CK, Dungu AM, Hegelund MH, Faurholt-Jepsen D, Krogh-Madsen R, Lindegaard B, Linneberg A, Kårhus LL, Juul A, Benfield T. Pituitary-gonadal hormones associated with respiratory failure in men and women hospitalized with COVID-19: an observational cohort study. Endocr Connect 2023; 12:e220444. [PMID: 36472925 PMCID: PMC9782448 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Aim To explore pituitary-gonadal hormone concentrations and assess their association with inflammation, severe respiratory failure, and mortality in hospitalized men and women with COVID-19, and compare these to hormone concentrations in hospitalized patients with bacterial community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and influenza virus CAP and to concentrations in a reference group of healthy individuals. Methods Serum concentrations of testosterone, estrone sulfate, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured within 4 days of admission. Associations were assessed by logistic regression analysis in patients with COVID-19, and results were reported as odds ratio with 95% CI per two-fold reduction after adjustment for age, comorbidities, days to sample collection, and IL-6 concentrations. Results In total, 278 patients with COVID-19, 21 with influenza virus CAP, and 76 with bacterial CAP were included. Testosterone concentrations were suppressed in men hospitalized with COVID-19, bacterial and influenza virus CAP, and moderately suppressed in women. Reductions in testosterone (OR: 3.43 (1.14-10.30), P = 0.028) and LH (OR: 2.51 (1.28-4.92), P = 0.008) were associated with higher odds of mehanical ventilation (MV) in men with COVID-19. In women with COVID-19, reductions in LH (OR: 3.34 (1.02-10-90), P = 0.046) and FSH (OR: 2.52 (1.01-6.27), P = 0.047) were associated with higher odds of MV. Conclusion Low testosterone and LH concentrations were predictive of severe respiratory failure in men with COVID-19, whereas low concentrations of LH and FSH were predictive of severe respiratory failure in women with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Lundetoft Clausen
- Center of Research & Disruption of Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital – Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital – Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Trine Holm Johannsen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Erik Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Camilla Koch Ryrsø
- Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital – Nordsjælland, Hillerød, Denmark
- Centre for Physical Activity Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Arnold Matovu Dungu
- Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital – Nordsjælland, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Maria Hein Hegelund
- Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital – Nordsjælland, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Daniel Faurholt-Jepsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Krogh-Madsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital – Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Centre for Physical Activity Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Lindegaard
- Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital – Nordsjælland, Hillerød, Denmark
- Centre for Physical Activity Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Allan Linneberg
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Copenhagen University Hospital – Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Line Lund Kårhus
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Copenhagen University Hospital – Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Benfield
- Center of Research & Disruption of Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital – Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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9
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Salar R, Erbay G, Şanlı A, Yavuz U, Kandemir E, Turel H, FeratÖncel H. Effect of COVID-19 infection on the erectile function. Andrology 2023; 11:10-16. [PMID: 36251682 PMCID: PMC9874733 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE It has been understood that COVID-19, which has become a global pandemic in a short time, is a disease affecting multiple organs and systems. Some of the organs and systems affected by the disease also play a role in the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction (ED), which led us to consider the possible effects of the disease on the erectile function. In this study, we aimed to evaluate changes in the erectile functions of patients with COVID-19 among those that had previously diagnosed with mild and moderate ED in our urology outpatient clinic. MATERIAL AND METHODS Eighty-one patients aged 18-65 years who were confirmed to have COVID-19 were included in the study. According to disease severity, these patients were divided into two groups as mild (non-hospitalized, n = 60) and moderate (hospitalized but did not require intensive care, n = 21). The patients' pre- and post-disease scores in the five-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and hormone panel results were compared. RESULTS The changes in the IIEF-5 scores of the patients from the pre-disease to the post-disease period were statistically significant for both the mild and moderate groups (p < 0.05). When these changes were compared between the mild and moderate groups, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.156). There was also no statistically significant change in the testosterone, follicle-stimulating, luteinizing, and prolactin hormone levels before and after the disease. CONCLUSION In this study, we determined that SARS-CoV-2 infection caused deterioration in existing ED in sexually active male individuals, regardless of the severity of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remzi Salar
- Şanlıurfa Mehmet Akif İnan Training and Research Hospital, Department of UrologyŞanlıurfaTurkey
| | - Güven Erbay
- Karaman Training and Research Hospital, Department of UrologyKaramanTurkey
| | - Ahmet Şanlı
- Karaman Training and Research Hospital, Department of UrologyKaramanTurkey
| | - Ufuk Yavuz
- Karaman Training and Research Hospital, Department of UrologyKaramanTurkey
| | - Emre Kandemir
- Karaman Training and Research Hospital, Department of UrologyKaramanTurkey
| | - Harun Turel
- Karaman Training and Research Hospital, Department of UrologyKaramanTurkey
| | - Halil FeratÖncel
- Şanlıurfa Mehmet Akif İnan Training and Research Hospital, Department of UrologyŞanlıurfaTurkey
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10
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Isidori AM, Aversa A, Calogero A, Ferlin A, Francavilla S, Lanfranco F, Pivonello R, Rochira V, Corona G, Maggi M. Adult- and late-onset male hypogonadism: the clinical practice guidelines of the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE). J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:2385-2403. [PMID: 36018454 PMCID: PMC9415259 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01859-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide the evidence-based recommendations on the role of testosterone (T) on age-related symptoms and signs remains. METHODS The Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) and the and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE) commissioned an expert task force to provide an updated guideline on adult-onset male hypogonadism. Derived recommendations were based on Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. RESULTS Clinical diagnosis of adult-onset hypogonadism should be based on a combination of clinical and biochemical parameters. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) should be offered to all symptomatic subjects with hypogonadism after the exclusion of possible contraindications. T gels and the long-acting injectable T are currently available preparations showing the best efficacy/safety profile. TRT can improve all aspects of sexual function, although its effect is limited in more complicated patients. Body composition (reducing fat mass and increasing lean mass) is improved after TRT, either in subjects with or without metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes. Conversely, the role of TRT in improving glycometabolic control is more conflicting. TRT can result in increasing bone mineral density, particularly at lumbar site, but no information on fracture risk is available. Limited data support the use of TRT for improving other outcomes, including mood frailty and mobility. CONCLUSIONS TRT can improve sexual function and body composition particularly in less complicated adult and in aging subjects with hypogonadism. When hypogonadism is adequately diagnosed, T appropriately prescribed and subjects correctly followed up, no short-term increased risk of adverse events is observed. Longer and larger studies are advisable to better clarify TRT long-term efficacy/safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - A Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - A Ferlin
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - S Francavilla
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - F Lanfranco
- Division of Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolism, Humanitas Gradenigo, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - R Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Unità di Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione e della Sessualità Maschile e Femminile, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- Staff of UNESCO Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - V Rochira
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Azienda Usl Bologna Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli, 2, 40133, Bologna, Italy.
| | - M Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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11
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Zhao N, Pan Z, Yang Q, Chen J, Ruan D, Huang M, Lu P, Chen X, Huang X, Lin X, Mo P. Effect of sex on the association between arterial partial pressure of oxygen and in-hospital mortality in ICU patients with cardiogenic shock: a retrospective cohort study. Ann Transl Med 2022; 10:1313. [PMID: 36660698 PMCID: PMC9843427 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-5141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Maintaining tissue perfusion and oxygen supply are essential for cardiogenic shock (CS) treatment. Sex has been reported to be associated with mortality and oxygen use in patients with CS. Males and females respond differently to hypoxia. We designed this cohort study to evaluate the effects of sex on the association between the arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) and in-hospital mortality. Methods We used the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC) IV database for this cohort study. The outcome was in-hospital mortality. The relationship between the PaO2 and in-hospital mortality was compared with sex (via an interaction test) using multivariable Cox regression models. Presence of interaction between PaO2 and sex was tested by using inter interaction terms. Results A total of 1,772 patients with CS were enrolled in this study. The association between PaO2 and in-hospital mortality appeared to differ between males and females [hazard ratio (HR): 0.997, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.995-0.999 vs. HR: 1.002, 95% CI: 0.999-1.003, P for interaction =0.002]. We repeated the analyses, based on different PaO2 category (PaO2 <60 mmHg; PaO2 60-100 mmHg; PaO2 >100 mmHg) and the results remained stable, P for interaction =0.008. Conclusions Sex affects the relationship between PaO2 and in-hospital mortality in CS patients. Our findings may lead to the development of individualized therapies that focus on the use of different target oxygen partial pressures in different sexes to treat patients with CS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Zhao
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zelin Pan
- Department of Critical Care, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qilin Yang
- Department of Critical Care, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Juanmei Chen
- The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongxue Ruan
- The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meiqi Huang
- The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peilin Lu
- The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xumin Chen
- The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinqiao Huang
- The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaozhen Lin
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pei Mo
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Twitchell DK, Christensen MB, Hackett G, Morgentaler A, Saad F, Pastuszak AW. Examining Male Predominance of Severe COVID-19 Outcomes: A Systematic Review. Androg Clin Res Ther 2022; 3:41-53. [PMID: 36199281 PMCID: PMC9527649 DOI: 10.1089/andro.2022.0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Although not universal, many epidemiological data sources signal that a higher proportion of males than females with confirmed Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections have adverse outcomes, such as intensive care unit (ICU) admission and death. Though likely multifactorial, the various hypotheses that have been proposed as underlying factors behind this trend are related to greater smoking prevalence among males, testosterone (T) deficiency causing an inflammatory storm, androgen-driven pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2, a protective effect of estrogen in females, and inborn errors of cytokine immunity. This review aims at examining the evidence and at assessing the likelihood that the factors being investigated are contributory to the reported trend of male predominance of severe COVID-19 cases. Sources were obtained using the PubMed database and were selected based on their relevance to one of the primary hypotheses attempting to explain the strong male sex bias of severe SARS-CoV-2 infections. Emphasis was placed on meta-analyses and population-based studies. Sources are current through February 22, 2022. A severe COVID-19 case or outcome is defined in this review as a progression of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that results in either admission to an ICU for management of symptoms and clinical stabilization or which leads to death. Although the trend of male predominance of severe COVID-19 cases is likely multifactorial, the hypothesis of T deficiency causing an inflammatory storm has support from many studies with limited conflicting evidence. An inborn error in cytokine immunity is also well supported, but it needs more studies to add support to the hypothesis. The immunologic protective effect of estrogen is supported by multiple studies, but it also has conflicting evidence. It appears less likely that the trend is caused solely by an increased prevalence of smoking among males or an androgen-driven pathogenesis, based on the extent of conflicting evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael B. Christensen
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Geoffrey Hackett
- Department of Men's Health, Little Aston Hospital, Sutton Coldfield, United Kingdom
| | - Abraham Morgentaler
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Farid Saad
- Department of Men's Health Research, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
| | - Alexander W. Pastuszak
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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13
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Baillargeon J, Kuo YF, Westra J, Lopez DS, Urban RJ, Williams SB, Raji MA. Association of testosterone therapy with disease progression in older males with COVID-19. Andrology 2022; 10:1057-1066. [PMID: 35486968 PMCID: PMC9347854 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Importance Low testosterone levels in males have been linked with increase in proinflammatory cytokines—a primary culprit in COVID‐19 disease progression—and with adverse COVID‐19 outcomes. To date, however, no published studies have assessed the effect of testosterone therapy on COVID‐19 outcomes in older men. Objective To examine whether testosterone therapy reduced disease progression in older men diagnosed with COVID‐19. Design, setting, and participants Nested within a national cohort of older (aged ≥50 years) male patients diagnosed with COVID‐19 between January 1, 2020 and July 1, 2021 from the Optum electronic health record COVID‐19 database, two matched case–control studies of COVID‐19 outcomes were conducted. Cases—defined, respectively, as persons who (a) were hospitalized ≤30 days after COVID‐19 diagnosis (n = 33,380), and (b) were admitted to the intensive care unit or received mechanical ventilation during their COVID‐19 hospitalization (n = 10,273)—were matched 1:1 with controls based on demographic and clinical factors. Exposures Testosterone therapy was defined based on receipt of prescription at ≤60, ≤90, or ≤120 days before COVID‐19 diagnosis. Main outcomes and measures Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for the risk of hospitalization within 30 days of COVID‐19 diagnosis and intensive care unit admission/mechanical ventilation during COVID‐19 hospitalization. Results The use of testosterone therapy was not associated with decreased odds of hospitalization (≤60 days: OR = 0.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.70–1.20; ≤90 days: OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.68–1.13; ≤120 days: OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.72–1.32) or intensive care unit admission/mechanical ventilation (≤60 days: OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.37–1.23; ≤90 days: OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.36–0.11; ≤120 days: OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.29–1.19). Conclusions and relevance This study showed that testosterone therapy was not associated with decreased risks of COVID‐19 adverse outcomes. These findings may provide clinically relevant information regarding testosterone treatment in older men with COVID‐19 and other respiratory viral infections with similar pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Baillargeon
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555
| | - Yong-Fang Kuo
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555
| | - Jordan Westra
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555
| | - David S Lopez
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555
| | - Randall J Urban
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555
| | - Stephen B Williams
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555
| | - Mukaila A Raji
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555
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14
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Marinelli L, Beccuti G, Zavattaro M, Cagnina S, Gesmundo I, Bona C, Lopez C, Scabini S, Canta F, Mornese Pinna S, Lupia T, Di Bisceglie C, Ponzetto F, Settanni F, De Rosa FG, Ghigo E, Motta G. Testosterone as a Biomarker of Adverse Clinical Outcomes in SARS-CoV-2 Pneumonia. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040820. [PMID: 35453570 PMCID: PMC9025790 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may affect testicles. Lower testosterone levels have been associated with worse clinical outcomes and higher mortality. Our objective was to evaluate the hypothalamic−pituitary−gonadal axis of men admitted with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia and its link with the pneumonia-treatment intensification. Short-term changes in hormonal parameters were also assessed. Methods: Men admitted with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia were recruited in two different hospitals in Piedmont, Italy. In all patients, the assessment of total testosterone (TT), calculated free testosterone (cFT), gonadotropins, inhibin B (InhB), and other biochemical evaluations were performed at admission (T0) and before discharge (T1). Through a review of medical records, clinical history was recorded, including data on pneumonia severity. Results: Thirty-five men (median age 64 [58−74] years) were recruited. Lower TT and cFT levels at T0 were associated with CPAP therapy (p = 0.045 and 0.028, respectively), even after adjusting for age and PaO2/FIO2 ratio in a multivariable analysis. In those discharged alive, lower TT and cFT levels were associated with longer hospital stay (p < 0.01). TT, cFT, and InhB were below the normal range at T0 and significantly increased at T1 (TT 1.98 [1.30−2.72] vs. 2.53 [1.28−3.37] ng/mL, p = 0.038; cFT (0.0441 [0.0256−0.0742] vs. 0.0702 [0.0314−0.0778] ng/mL, p = 0.046; InhB 60.75 [25.35−88.02] vs. 77.05 [51.15−134.50], p < 0.01). Conclusions: Both TT and cFT levels are associated with adverse clinical outcomes in men admitted with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. As TT, cFT and InhB levels increase before discharge, short-term functional recovery of steroidogenesis and an indirect improvement of spermatozoa functional status could be hypothesized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Marinelli
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Guglielmo Beccuti
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Marco Zavattaro
- Division of Endocrinology, University Hospital “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Serena Cagnina
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Iacopo Gesmundo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Chiara Bona
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Chiara Lopez
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Silvia Scabini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.S.); (F.C.); (S.M.P.); (F.G.D.R.)
| | - Francesca Canta
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.S.); (F.C.); (S.M.P.); (F.G.D.R.)
| | - Simone Mornese Pinna
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.S.); (F.C.); (S.M.P.); (F.G.D.R.)
| | - Tommaso Lupia
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Cardinal Massaia Hospital, 14100 Asti, Italy;
| | - Cataldo Di Bisceglie
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Federico Ponzetto
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Fabio Settanni
- Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory, AOU Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Francesco Giuseppe De Rosa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (S.S.); (F.C.); (S.M.P.); (F.G.D.R.)
| | - Ezio Ghigo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Giovanna Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.B.); (S.C.); (I.G.); (C.B.); (C.L.); (C.D.B.); (F.P.); (E.G.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (G.M.)
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