The effects of testosterone on transgender males on carotid intima-media thickness and serum inflammatory markers compared within patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

Gynecol Endocrinol. 2022 Sep;38(9):771-775. doi: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2112942. Epub 2022 Aug 21.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effects of testosterone on carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and serum inflammatory markers compared within transgender males (TGM-Former called female-to-male) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).Methods: The prospective observational study included 30 TGM, 30 patients with PCOS, and 30 healthy women. Groups were compared for CIMT and hematologic inflammatory markers white blood cell (WBC), lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and mean platelet volume (MPV).Results: The CIMT of the TGM group was 0.48 ± 0.09 mm was significantly higher than PCOS (0.41 ± 0.09 mm, p = .005) and the control group (0.38 ± 0.7 mm, p = .001). The mean NLR, LMR, and MPV values were similar (p > .05). TGM had higher WBC levels compared to control women (p = .029). TGM had significantly lower PLR compared to PCOS and the control group (p = .001). CIMT were related to age (r = .390, p = .04) and body mass index (BMI) (r = .392, p = .03) in TGM.Conclusion: Increased CIMT in TGM individuals is not associated with inflammation; it seems to be a deleterious effect of exogenous testosterone exposure. Since increased CIMT may be a sign of serious cardiovascular problems developing in the future, it is suggested that it will be beneficial for these individuals should undergo clinical and radiological evaluation at regular intervals.

Keywords: Hyperandrogenism; body mass index; carotid intima-media thickness; polycystic ovary syndrome; transgender persons; 体重指数; 变性人; 多囊卵巢综合征; 颈动脉内中膜厚度; 高雄激素血症.

Publication types

  • Observational Study

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Body Mass Index
  • Carotid Intima-Media Thickness
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome*
  • Testosterone
  • Transgender Persons*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Testosterone