Korean J Urol.  2014 Jan;55(1):9-16. 10.4111/kju.2014.55.1.9.

Hypogonadism in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Men

• Ashby J
• Goldmeier
• Sadeghi-Nejad H

• KMID: 1988446
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4111/kju.2014.55.1.9

Abstract

In recent years, the life expectancy for those living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) with access to combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) has increased. As men live longer, the role testosterone plays in sexual function as well as in general well-being is becoming increasingly important. Here we discuss the available literature concerning androgens and HIV disease. A review was undertaken by using a PubMed search with the umbrella terms HIV or AIDS and testosterone or androgens spanning 1985 to 2011. Significant articles found in references in the primary search were also included. The reported prevalence of androgen deficiency appears to be greater in HIV-infected males than in the general population. Androgen deficiency is usually associated with low luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone and is sensitive to the type of measurement of testosterone used. Rates of hypogonadism may be falling since the advent of cART. Causes of low testosterone levels have been attributed to chronic illness, HIV replication, cART, opportunistic infections, comorbidities and coinfections, wasting, and normal age-related declines. Studies of testosterone treatment in HIV-positive men are lacking in standardization and outcome measures.

Keyword

Androgens; HIV; Hypogonadism; Testosterone

MeSH Terms

Androgens
Chronic Disease
Coinfection
Comorbidity
Follicle Stimulating Hormone
HIV
Humans*
Hypogonadism*
Life Expectancy
Luteinizing Hormone
Male
Opportunistic Infections
Outcome Assessment (Health Care)
Prevalence
Testosterone
Androgens
Follicle Stimulating Hormone
Luteinizing Hormone
Testosterone

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