The Aging Male
As men age, testosterone declines, and a subset develop a genuine clinical syndrome — late-onset hypogonadism.
The big picture
As men age, testosterone declines, and a subset develop a genuine clinical syndrome — late-onset hypogonadism. The central principle, and the most common error, is that the diagnosis requires two things together: symptoms AND a confirmed low serum testosterone — neither alone is enough. Treatment (testosterone replacement) can help symptomatic, deficient men, but it carries real cautions, particularly around the prostate and blood counts.
The framework: the syndrome and its names, the dual diagnostic requirement, and the benefits/cautions of testosterone replacement.
Mechanism pathway
Tap any step to see why it happens.
Diagnostic algorithm
Each step answers one question. Tap to expand.
Board traps
The diagnosis needs BOTH symptoms AND a confirmed low testosterone — neither alone suffices.
Testosterone stimulates erythropoiesis → polycythaemia — monitor haematocrit on replacement.
Assess the prostate (DRE/PSA) before and during testosterone therapy.
Hypogonadism contributes to osteoporosis — bone health matters.