Low Serum Testosterone in Outpatient Psychiatry Clinics: Addressing Challenges to the Screening and Treatment of Hypogonadism

Abstract

Introduction: The symptoms of low testosterone frequently overlap with psychiatric complaints including depression and fatigue. Testosterone repletion has been shown to improve mood symptoms in men with low testosterone, although this finding has not been consistent across all studies. Despite the potential importance of low testosterone for psychiatry, the prevalence of low testosterone in men who present to psychiatric clinics with mental health complaints is unknown.

Aim: To provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of the psychiatric complications of male hypogonadism, the challenges of screening for hypogonadism in a psychiatric population, and the potential mental health treatment implications of hypogonadism.

Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed.

Main outcome measures: Publications pertaining to the epidemiology, psychiatric symptomatology, and impact of treatment of male hypogonadism on psychiatric outcomes.

Results: A review of the literature suggests a lack of information on the prevalence of low testosterone in patients presenting with psychiatric complaints despite an overlap in clinical symptoms. The identification of low testosterone could have a significant impact on treatment through urologic referral for testosterone repletion or the use of treatments that spare the gonadal axis.

Conclusion: We hope our results will help those who care for patients in psychiatric settings to better assess for the presence of hypogonadism and its potential contribution to depressive illness. Smith JB, Rosen J, Colbert A. Low Serum Testosterone in Outpatient Psychiatry Clinics: Addressing Challenges to the Screening and Treatment of Hypogonadism. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:69-76.

Keywords: Depression; Hypogonadism; Male; Testosterone.