What is the Origin of Androgen Deprivation Effects?

The term's origin is directly tied to the clinical practice of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a treatment modality predominantly used in the management of prostate cancer. The effects observed are the predictable outcomes of removing the trophic and regulatory influence of androgens on their target tissues throughout the body. Understanding this clinical model provides insight into the vital role androgens play in male and female physiology.

What is the Mechanism of Androgen Deprivation Effects?

The deprivation of androgens impacts numerous cellular and metabolic pathways, as these steroids act via intracellular receptors to regulate gene expression in muscle, bone, brain, and adipose tissue. Lack of androgenic signaling leads to accelerated bone mineral density loss, increased visceral adiposity, and a reduction in lean muscle mass due to an unfavorable shift in the anabolic-catabolic balance. Neuroendocrine changes also contribute to mood disturbances and cognitive changes observed in patients.

Androgen Deprivation Effects

Meaning

Androgen Deprivation Effects refer to the systemic physiological and psychological consequences resulting from a significant reduction or complete blockade of androgen hormones, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). While often utilized therapeutically in specific medical contexts, these effects manifest as a range of adverse symptoms that compromise quality of life and metabolic health. Clinically, these include loss of libido, hot flashes, fatigue, and profound changes in body composition.