Psychosocial issues of ART in aging male.
The role of androgens in human sexuality as regards the mechanism of erection and the pathogenesis of impotence is under debate. In addition, it is difficult to define the psychosocial impact of both hypogonadism and androgen replacement. However, sexual hormones largely influence mood, well-being, and quality of life. For this reason, despite the methodological difficulties of assessment, testosterone replacement has a deep impact on the social, psychological and sexual life of the treated patient. Considering the obvious characteristic of testosterone as an hormone, it appears evident that the endocrinologist is the unique experienced specialist able to diagnose and treat the hypogonadal men, monitoring potential side effects and following the psychosocial issues of androgen therapy.
Carosa
E
E
Course of Endocrinology and Medical Sexology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy. jannini@univaq.it
Volpe
R
R
Martini
P
P
Brandetti
F
F
Di Stasi
S M
SM
Lombardo
F
F
Salacone
P
P
Sgrò
P
P
Gandini
L
L
Lenzi
A
A
Jannini
E A
EA
D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging; D000728:Androgens / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D020249:Hormone Replacement Therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007006:Hypogonadism / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D011584:Psychology; D012725:Sexual Behavior
D000728:Androgens