Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH): Incidence, diagnosis, and short-term effects

Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) is a condition that affects an estimated 10% of men aged > 50 years and up to 20% of men aged > 60 years. Characterized by a measurable deficiency in serum testosterone levels, LOH is sometimes referred to as testosterone deficiency, or androgen deficiency in the ageing male (ADAM). There are a number of distinct physical, psychological, and sexual symptoms associated with LOH. The diagnosis of LOH is made on the basis of these presenting symptoms, accompanied by the biochemical establishment of low serum testosterone levels. Symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbance, short-term memory loss, changes in body composition, irritability, depression, a decrease in libido, and erectile dysfunction can compound to adversely affect patient quality of life and health status. This paper describes how to recognize and diagnose LOH and considers its short-term impact on patient health and well-being. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.