Testosterone plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of many male characteristics and is necessary for essential health and vitality. The level of testosterone varies in men, and abnormalities can result in various disorders.
Source
Testosterone production in males is activated by the pituitary gland. This gland produces luteinizing hormone which then stimulates the leydig cells of the testes to produce testosterone, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Purpose
In men, testosterone influences an array of important bodily functions. The Mayo Clinic reports that testosterone maintains healthy bone density, fat distribution, muscle mass, red blood cells and production of sperm. The male hormone is also responsible for the development of typical masculine characteristics like sex drive, facial and body hair. Men suffering from testosterone deficiencies usually complain about decreased concentration, poor libido, decreased muscle and energy.
Disorders
Healthy testosterone values in males typically range from 300 to 1,200 nanograms per deciliter, according to the NIH. Abnormal testosterone production is characterized by either increased or decreased levels of testosterone. Disorders characterized by elevated testosterone production include androgen resistance, precocious puberty and testicular cancer. Poor or decreased production of testosterone is associated with delayed puberty, hypopituitarism and testicular failure. The natural decline of testosterone typically begins in males after the age of 30 and gradually declines with age.
Therapy
Individuals suffering from low testosterone levels can receive testosterone therapy to promote healthy production. The Cleveland Clinic Foundation reports that the only way to verify if you are suffering from testosterone deficiency is to visit a medical physician and get tested. Testosterone injections, patches and gels are some of the methods of testosterone replacement, according to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Testosterone injections are administered intramuscularly every two or three weeks. The patches and topical gel are applied daily on certain areas of the body. All three options are effective at improving testosterone levels and can be prescribed by a medical doctor.
Side Effects and Dangers
Testosterone therapy should not be administered to men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer. Elevated testosterone levels can stimulate the growth of the prostate and stimulate cancer cell growth, according to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Side effects associated with testosterone hormone replacement therapy are acne, fluid retention, breast enlargement, sleep apnea and decreased size of the testes. The Cleveland Clinic Foundation reports that abnormalities from therapy include changes in blood cholesterol levels, red blood cell count and sperm count.
