Hypogonadism in Metabolic Syndrome: Cause or Consequence? Lesson from Genetic Hypogonadism and Disorders of Gender Identity - Abstract
Hypogonadism is frequently associated with metabolic syndrome and testosterone levels correlate with parameters which are part of the cluster defining the syndrome itself. Different studies suggest a positive role of testosterone replacement therapy, but different aspects (including the definition of hypogonadism, especially in aging male, and the modality of treatment) still require confirmation. A model to explore the role of testosterone in influencing the beginning and course of the syndrome is early hypogonadism, due to genetic causes (both primary or secondary hypogonadism); moreover, few data are reported in transsexuals, despite the debate on biological bases of gender indentity, and the influence of pharmacological treatment before and after surgical sex reversal. We present here a review of literature and some paradigmatic cases, that seem to reinforce the concept of hypogonadism as a causative factor of metabolic syndrome.