Male Andropause, clinically referred to as late-onset hypogonadism or Age-Related Testosterone Deficiency, describes the gradual decline in bioavailable testosterone and other androgen levels that occurs in men as they age, often accompanied by corresponding symptoms. Unlike the relatively rapid hormonal cessation of female menopause, the male process is a slow, progressive decline that can lead to reduced libido, fatigue, changes in mood, decreased muscle mass, and increased visceral fat accumulation. Clinical intervention often focuses on restoring testosterone to a youthful, optimal range to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Origin
The term ‘Andropause’ is a compound of the Greek andrós (man) and pausis (cessation), coined to create a parallel with ‘menopause,’ although the physiological processes are distinct. The concept gained clinical recognition in the latter half of the 20th century as endocrinologists began to formally study the effects of age-related hormonal decline in men. While ‘Andropause’ remains a common term, clinicians often prefer the more precise ‘late-onset hypogonadism’ to reflect the gradual nature of the deficiency.
Mechanism
The primary mechanism involves a decrease in the production of testosterone by the Leydig cells in the testes, often compounded by a reduction in the pulsatile release of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. Furthermore, aging often leads to an increase in Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG), which binds testosterone and reduces the amount of biologically active, free testosterone available to target tissues. This systemic decline in androgenic signaling disrupts anabolic pathways and contributes to the characteristic symptoms of reduced vitality and altered body composition.
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