title: Subcutaneous pellet testosterone replacement therapy: the "first steps" in treating men with spinal cord injuries.
abstract: The authors describe the case of a 36-year-old man who presented with hormone level concerns 6 months after a rock climbing accident that resulted in paraplegia. Hypogonadism was diagnosed, and the patient received subcutaneous pellet testosterone replacement therapy. Within 6 months, the patient had substantial improvement in muscle function and was able to take several steps with the assistance of crutches or a walker. This case highlights the potential improvement in quality of life and overall prognosis resulting from the subcutaneous pellet form of testosterone when used as part of the overall treatment plan in such patients. Considering the overwhelming preponderance of hypogonadism in men with spinal cord injuries, the standard of care for such patients should include screening, laboratory hormone evaluation, and prompt treatment for testosterone deficiency.
authors.affiliation: OMS IV, 19555 N 59th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308-6813. kendramgray@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Kendra M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Gray
authors.forename: Angela
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Derosa
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004343:Drug Implants; D020249:Hormone Replacement Therapy; D006801:Humans; D007006:Hypogonadism / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D055104:Infusions, Subcutaneous; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae; D008297:Male; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000187:drug effects; D010264:Paraplegia / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D011788:Quality of Life; D020127:Recovery of Function; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D013739:Testosterone / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae
chemical_list: D004343:Drug Implants; D013739:Testosterone