Evaluation of testosterone levels in men with metabolic syndrome

OBJECTIVES
Low plasma levels of testosterone in men are associated with increased risk for atherosclerosis. In this study, we assessed plasma testosterone levels in patients with metabolic syndrome (MS) and its relationship with MS parameters.
STUDY DESIGN
The study consisted of 36 men (mean age 50.2±7.2 years) with a diagnosis of MS according to the NCEP (National Cholesterol Education Program) criteria. An age-matched control group comprising 39 healthy volunteers (mean age 48.3±8.1 years) was also included. Plasma testosterone levels were determined by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay on the Roche Elecsys 2010 analyzer. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for glucose and insulin levels, and lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, and HDL). In addition, HOMA (Homeostasis Model Assessment) index was calculated.
RESULTS
The mean plasma testosterone level was significantly lower in the patient group (3.6±0.8 vs 4.8±1.9 ng/ml, p=0.001). There was a significant correlation between the levels of testosterone and HDL cholesterol (r=0.25, p<0.05). Testosterone levels were inversely correlated with the following: body mass index (r= -0.41, p<0.001), waist circumference (r= -0.40, p<0.001), HOMA index (r= -0.31, p=0.008), insulin (r= -0.28, p<0.05), glucose (r= -0.29, p<0.05), triglyceride (r= -0.28, p<0.05), and very low density lipoprotein (r= -0.28, p<0.05). Multivariate analysis identified only body mass index as an independent correlate of testosterone (b= -0.36, p=0.038).
CONCLUSION
Our results show that plasma testosterone levels are significantly decreased in MS. This may be of clinical importance for the assessment of cardiovascular risks in male patients with MS.