COMPENSATED HYPOGONADISM IN MEN WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE

ABSTRACTIntroductionSickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with the development of hypogonadism, but there is still controversy regarding its etiology and clinical implications.ObjectiveTo evaluate the prevalence of hypogonadism in a population of men with SCD and characterize its etiology.MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional study of 34 men with SCD aged > 18 years. Sociodemographic and clinical data, including anthropometric measurements (weight, height, and BMI), were obtained. Early morning blood samples were collected and total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a complete blood count, and hemoglobin electrophoresis were measured.ResultsMedian age was 33 [26-41] years, and SS genotype was the most frequent (73.5%). The prevalence of eugonadism, compensated, and secondary hypogonadism was 67.5%, 26.4%, and 5.88%, respectively. No men with primary hypogonadism were identified in our sample. Those with compensated hypogonadism had also higher FSH levels than individuals with eugonadism; p < 0.001).ConclusionIn our study population of men with SCD a high prevalence of compensated hypogonadism was identified, which is a controversial and distinct clinical entity that warrants monitoring and further research.