T For All Free For All
A 46-year-old man, Michael (not his real name), came to me requesting testosterone to treat his low sex drive and difficulty building muscle. Michael had been seen at a men’s clinic that did not perform a thorough workup but recommended a combination of an estrogen blocker and injectable testosterone.
He had a healthy dose of understandable skepticism for the medical community, having suffered an unexpected complication from a recent surgery.
Michael asked me to explain the underlying reason for these symptoms at such a relatively young age and requested a more thorough investigation. Bloodwork showed severely depressed testosterone levels.
An MRI of his brain revealed a pituitary mass and a subsequent workup proved that the mass was secreting growth hormone. In retrospect, he identified many symptoms of excess growth hormone including facial swelling, as well as enlarging of the hands, feet, jaw and forehead.
After surgery to remove the mass, Michael’s testosterone levels normalized along with all of his other symptoms.
This case highlights the importance of performing thorough medical work ups to identify underlying causes of symptoms rather than simply offering a one-size-fits-all approach to common complaints. While there is certainly a role for testosterone replacement therapy in mainstream medical practices, it shouldn’t be given until a comprehensive workup has been completed.
Testosterone therapy is a medical treatment that involves supplementing testosterone in individuals who have low levels of the hormone. While testosterone therapy can have many benefits, such as improving muscle mass, bone density, and libido, it also carries certain risks and potential dangers. Some of the dangers of testosterone therapy include:
Cardiovascular Risks
Increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, particularly in older men and those with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
Prostate Cancer
Increased risk of developing prostate cancer or worsening existing prostate cancer.
Sleep Apnea
Potentially causing or worsening sleep apnea, a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
Blood Clots
Increased risk of developing blood clots, which can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening.
Infertility
Potential decrease in sperm production and fertility in men, making it difficult to conceive.
Liver Toxicity
Potential liver damage, particularly if taken orally.
Mood Changes
Potentially causing mood changes, such as increased aggression, irritability, and anxiety.
It is important for individuals considering testosterone therapy to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and to closely monitor their health while undergoing treatment.
