What is the Origin of Androgen-Induced Erythrocytosis?

The term is a compound of endocrinology, "Androgen," and hematology, "Erythrocytosis," reflecting a physiological response of the hematopoietic system to hormonal stimuli. Clinically, this phenomenon became prominent with the increased use of exogenous testosterone for hypogonadism management and its abuse in athletic circles. The effect stems from the known regulatory influence of androgens on red blood cell production.

What is the Mechanism of Androgen-Induced Erythrocytosis?

Androgens exert their erythropoietic effect primarily by stimulating the renal production of erythropoietin (EPO), a key glycoprotein hormone that promotes the proliferation and differentiation of erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow. Elevated EPO levels lead to increased red blood cell production, culminating in erythrocytosis. Furthermore, androgens may also directly influence the sensitivity of bone marrow stem cells to EPO, enhancing the overall effect on red cell mass.

Androgen-Induced Erythrocytosis

Meaning

Androgen-induced erythrocytosis is a hematological condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the red blood cell mass, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, directly attributable to the therapeutic or supraphysiological use of androgens, such as testosterone. This state elevates blood viscosity, which in turn increases the risk for thromboembolic events like stroke and myocardial infarction. Careful clinical monitoring of hematological parameters is essential during androgen replacement therapy to manage this dose-dependent side effect.