THURSDAY, Dec. 26, 2002 (HealthDayNews) -- Updated medical guidelines for the treatment and evaluation of low testosterone in men have been announced by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE).
The new guidelines, which appear in the November/December issue of Endocrine Practice, discuss symptoms of low testosterone and the importance of correct diagnosis and treatment by physicians.
Low testosterone levels can be caused by a variety of factors including conditions associated with the testes, pituitary gland or hypothalamus gland, or by a genetic disorder. Low testosterone levels may also be age-related.
Low testosterone levels can cause decreased libido, impotence, a decrease in muscle mass, fatigue and decreased bone density in conjunction with osteoporosis.
Research indicates that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is often effective in treating such symptoms.
The AACE says TRT should be administered only under medical supervision to identify early indications of possible adverse effects. Men with known prostate cancer should not receive TRT and postrate specific antigen (PSA) levels should be carefully monitored in men receiving TRT, the AACE says.
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