Recuperación de la espermatogénesis tras el abuso de esteroides anabólicos androgénicos en varones. Revisión sistemática de la literatura / Recovery of spermatogenesis after androgenic anabolic steroids abuse in men. A systematic review of the literature

Objetivo El objetivo de esta revisión sistemática es identificar el tratamiento óptimo para la infertilidad masculina derivada del abuso de esteroides anabólicos androgénicos (EAA). Métodos Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática según la declaración Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Se incluyeron estudios que comparaban distintos protocolos para la recuperación de la espermatogénesis tras el uso de EAA. Resultados Un total de 13 estudios que investigaban diferentes protocolos para recuperar la espermatogénesis en pacientes con abuso de EAA cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Entre los agentes disponibles que demostraron eficacia en el reestablecimiento de la espermatogénesis se encuentran las gonadotropinas inyectables, los moduladores selectivos de los receptores de estrógenos (SERM) y los inhibidores de la aromatasa (AI), pero su uso apenas ha sido descrito en la literatura. Conclusiones Los médicos deben conocer los efectos adversos que los EAA pueden tener sobre la espermatogénesis. La infertilidad asociada a estos agentes puede ser de carácter reversible, pero la producción de espermatozoides puede tardar más de un año en normalizarse. Tanto el tratamiento conservador como el agresivo pueden estimular la espermatogénesis con resultados satisfactorios. Se requiere una mayor comprensión de la endocrinología reproductiva masculina y datos de alta calidad sobre la recuperación de la espermatogénesis tras el abuso de EAA. (AU)

Objective This systematic review aims to evaluate the optimal treatment for male infertility resulting from Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) abuse. Methods A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Studies that compared different protocols for the recovery of spermatogenesis in patients after AAS use were included. Results 13 studies investigating different protocols to restore spermatogenesis in patients with AAS abuse met the inclusion criteria. The available agents that showed restoration of spermatogenesis include injectable gonadotropins, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and aromatase inhibitors, but their use is still poorly described in the literature. Conclusions Clinicians need to be aware of the detrimental effects of AAS on spermatogenesis. AAS-associated infertility may be reversible, but sperm production may take over a year to normalize. Both conservative and aggressive treatment can boost spermatogenesis with positive results. Further understanding of male reproductive endocrinology and high-quality data on the field of restoration of spermatogenesis after AAS abuse are warranted. (AU)

Recovery of spermatogenesis after androgenic anabolic steroids abuse in men. A systematic review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aims to evaluate the optimal treatment for male infertility resulting from Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) abuse. METHODS: A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Studies that compared different protocols for the recovery of spermatogenesis in patients after AAS use were included. RESULTS: 13 studies investigating different protocols to restore spermatogenesis in patients with AAS abuse met the inclusion criteria. The available agents that showed restoration of spermatogenesis include injectable gonadotropins, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and aromatase inhibitors, but their use is still poorly described in the literature. CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians need to be aware of the detrimental effects of AAS on spermatogenesis. AAS-associated infertility may be reversible, but sperm production may take over a year to normalize. Both conservative and aggressive treatment can boost spermatogenesis with positive results. Further understanding of male reproductive endocrinology and high-quality data on the field of restoration of spermatogenesis after AAS abuse are warranted.

Resumen ejecutivo de las guías de práctica clínica en la osteoporosis posmenopáusica, glucocorticoidea y del varón (actualización 2022). Sociedad Española de Investigación Ósea y del Metabolismo Mineral (SEIOMM) / Executive summary clinical practice guideline of postmenopausal, glucocortcioid-induced and male osteoporosis (2022 update). Spanish Society for Bone and Mineral Metabolism Investigation (SEIOMM)

Esta versión actualizada de las guías de osteoporosis de la Sociedad Española de Investigación en Osteoporosis y Metabolismo Mineral (SEIOMM) incorpora la información más relevante publicada en los últimos 7años, desde las guías de 2015, con estudios de imagen, como la valoración de la fractura vertebral y el análisis del índice trabecular óseo. Además, los avances terapéuticos incluyen los nuevos fármacos anabólicos, los estudios comparativos de la eficacia de los fármacos y la terapia secuencial y combinada. Por ello se actualizan también las recomendaciones de los tratamientos (AU)

This updated version of the Spanish Society for Research in Osteoporosis and Mineral Metabolism (SEIOMM) osteoporosis guides incorporate the most relevant information published in the last 7years, since the 2015 guides, with imaging studies, such as vertebral fracture assessment and bone trabecular score analysis. In addition, therapeutic advances include new anabolic agents, comparative studies of drug efficacy, and sequential and combined therapy. Therefore, therapeutic algorithms are also updated (AU)

Executive summary clinical practice guideline of postmenopausal, glucocortcioid-induced and male osteoporosis (2022 update). Spanish Society for Bone and Mineral Metabolism Investigation (SEIOMM).

This updated version of the Spanish Society for Research in Osteoporosis and Mineral Metabolism (SEIOMM) osteoporosis guides incorporate the most relevant information published in the last 7 years, since the 2015 guides, with imaging studies, such as vertebral fracture assessment and bone trabecular score analysis. In addition, therapeutic advances include new anabolic agents, comparative studies of drug efficacy, and sequential and combined therapy. Therefore, therapeutic algorithms are also updated.

Resumen ejecutivo de las Guías de práctica clínica en la osteoporosis postmenopáusica, glucocorticoidea y del varón (actualización 2022) / Executive summary clinical practice guideline of postmenopausal, glucocorticoid-induced, and male osteoporosis (2022 update)

Esta versión actualizada de la Guía de osteoporosis de la SEIOMM (Sociedad Española de Investigación en Osteoporosis y Metabolismo Mineral) incorpora la información más relevante publicada en los últimos 7 años, desde la Guía de 2015, con estudios de imagen, como la valoración de la fractura vertebral y el análisis del índice trabecular óseo. Además, los avances terapéuticos incluyen los nuevos fármacos anabólicos, los estudios comparativos de la eficacia de los fármacos y la terapia secuencial y combinada. Por ello se actualizan también las recomendaciones de los tratamientos. (AU)

Guías de práctica clínica en la osteoporosis postmenopáusica, glucocorticoidea y del varón (actualización 2022). Sociedad Española de Investigación Ósea y del Metabolismo Mineral (SEIOMM) / Clinical practice guidelines in postmenopausal, glucocorticoid and male osteoporosis (update 2022). Spanish Society for Bone and Mineral Metabolism Research (SEIOMM)

Esta actualización de las Guías incorpora la información más relevante aparecida durante los 7 años trascurridos desde la publicación de la versión anterior, especialmente en cuanto a procedimientos diagnósticos y opciones terapéuticas. Entre los primeros, merece la pena destacar la incorporación del TBS y la detección de fracturas vertebrales por densitometría. Entre los tratamientos, se consideran los nuevos fármacos anabólicos, los estudios comparativos de eficacia en osteoporosis grave, las pautas de actuación tras la suspensión de los antirresortivos y otros esquemas de tratamiento secuencial y combinado. Teniendo en cuenta todo ello, se actualizan los esquemas de tratamiento recomendados. (AU)

Estanozolol como anabólico: una causa de hepatotoxicidad / Estanozol as anabolic: a cause of hepatotoxicity / Estanozolol Como Anabólico: Uma Causa De Hepatotoxicidade

Los antibióticos y analgésicos han sido descritos frecuentemente como las principales causas de toxicidad hepática. Los esteroides anabólicos se han relacionado también con alteraciones en sistemas como el cardiovascular o el hepático; en este último causan colestasis, carcinoma hepatocelular, hiperplasia regenerativa nodular y sangrado de varices, secundario a hipertensión portal. Es importante entonces considerar los esteroides anabólicos como factores de riesgo para hepatotoxicidad. Se presenta el primer caso en Colombia y uno de los pocos en Latinoamérica, de colestasis asociada únicamente al uso de estanozolol. Se trata de un paciente de 21 años, en tratamiento con el medicamento para incrementar la masa muscular, que presentó compromiso hepático de tipo colestásico. Se descartaron otras posibles causas de ictericia, mediante la escala CIOMS/RUCAM se llegó a establecer causalidad entre el consumo de estanozolol y la colestasis. El objetivo de este reporte es hacer una descripción no reportada en la literatura colombiana y poco común en la literatura mundial.

Antibiotics and pain relievers have been frequently described as the main causes of liver toxicity. Anabolic steroids have also been linked to alterations in systems such as cardio-vascular or liver. In the latter, they seem to cause cholestasis, hepatocellular carcinoma, nodular regenerative hyperplasia and variceal bleeding secondary to portal hypertension. It is important to consider them as factors associated with hepatotoxicity. The first case in Colombia and one of the few in Latin America of cholestasis associated only to the use of Stanozolol is presented in a 21-year-old patient under treatment with the drug to increase muscle mass. The patient presented with cholestatic liver involvement. Other possible causes of jaundice were ruled out. From the CIOMS / RUCAM scale, causality was established between the consumption of Stanozolol and cholestasis. The objective of this case is to report a case not found in Colombian literature and little reported in world literature.

Antibióticos e analgésicos têm sido frequentemente descritos como as principais causas de toxicidade hepática. Os esteroides anabolizantes também têm sido relacionados a alterações em sistemas como cardiovasculares ou hepáticos; neste último, causam colestase, carcinoma hepatocelular, hiperplasia nodular regenerativa e sangramento varicoso, secundário à hipertensão portal. Portanto, é importante considerar os este-roides anabolizantes como fatores de risco para hepatotoxicidade. O primeiro caso é apresentado na Colômbia e um dos poucos na América Latina, de colestase associada apenas ao uso de estanozolol. Paciente de 21 anos, em tratamento com fármaco para aumento de massa muscular, apresentou acometimento hepático colestático. Outras possíveis causas de icterícia foram descartadas, a escala CIOMS / RUCAM estabeleceu causalidade entre o consumo de estanozolol e colestase. O objetivo deste relatório é fazer uma descrição não relatada na literatura colombiana e rara na literatura mundial

Detecção de esteroides anabólicos androgênicos e seus produtos de biotransformação em dried urine spots por ionização por paper spray acoplada à espectrometria de massas (PS-MS) / Detection of anabolic androgenic steroids and its biotransformation products in dried urine spots by paper spray-mass spectrometry ionization (PS-MS)

Os esteroides anabólicos androgênicos (EAA) são utilizados clinicamente para tratar diferentes doenças, porém propagou-se o uso não terapêutico por atletas de elite e fisiculturistas, com o intuito de aumentar a massa muscular e melhorar o desempenho físico. O uso de substâncias ergogênicas, como fármacos estimulantes e narcóticos analgésicos no esporte, foi proibido em 1967 pelo International Olympic Committee (COI), mas somente em 1976 os EAA entraram para a lista de substâncias proibidas. O uso de EAA está associado a diversos efeitos adversos, principalmente cardiovasculares, neuroendócrinos e distúrbios psiquiátricos, além de dislipidemia, elevação dos marcadores inflamatórios e disfunção endotelial. As análises toxicológicas constam como a maneira mais eficaz de minimizar o doping no esporte. O material é fornecido pelo atleta durante as competições ou treinamentos e previne que os competidores alcancem vantagem competitiva devido ao uso de EAA. A utilização de métodos para amostragem alternativos tem ganhado força, devido à necessidade de técnicas mais práticas que utilizam pouco volume de amostra e possuem facilidade de armazenamento. O dried urine spots é um método no qual pequenas amostras de urina são aplicadas em papéis de filtro para análises qualitativas ou quantitativas. Ele se caracteriza por ser uma técnica rápida, fácil, simples e barata para a coleta, armazenamento e distribuição, além de minimizar os riscos de infecção, podendo ser utilizado na rotina. A técnica de paper spray (PS-MS) foi desenvolvida a partir da relevância de métodos como o dried blood spots por proporcionar análises mais rápidas, apresenta alta especificidade, capacidade de analisar diferentes analitos simultaneamente, baixo limite de detecção e dispensa a necessidade de reagentes específicos. Sendo assim, neste trabalho foi desenvolvido e validado o método de screening de EAAs em dried urine spots por ionização por paper spray acoplada à espectrometria de massas. O método apresentou limites de detecção entre 2-15ng/mL e presença de três interferentes endógenos. Os dez analitos de interesse deste estudo são estáveis por 150 dias em temperatura ambiente. Dessa forma, a análise de EAAs em dried urine spots por PS-MS demonstra grande potencial para se tornar um método alternativo no monitoramento rápido de drogas de abuso

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are used clinically to treat different diseases, but non-therapeutic use has spread among elite athletes and bodybuilders, with the aim of increase muscle mass and improve physical performance. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) banned the use of ergogenic substances, such as stimulating drugs and analgesic narcotics in sports, in 1967, but only in 1976, AAS were included on the list of prohibited substances. The use of AAS is associated with several adverse effects, mainly cardiovascular, neuroendocrine and psychiatric disorders, in addition to dyslipidemia, elevated inflammatory markers and endothelial dysfunction. Toxicological analyzes are the most effective approach to minimize doping in sport. The material is provided by the athlete during competitions or training and prevents competitors from achieving a competitive advantage due to the use of AAs. The use of alternative sampling methods has gained strength, due to the need for more practical techniques that use low sample volume and can be easily storage. Dried urine spots are a method, which a small amount of urine samples is applied to filter papers for qualitative or quantitative analysis. It is characterized by being a fast, easy, simple and inexpensive technique for collection, storage and distribution, in addition to minimizing the risks of infection, and can be used in the routine. The paper spray technique (PS-MS) was developed based on the relevance of methods such as dried blood spots for providing faster analysis, high specificity, ability to analyze different analytes simultaneously, low detection limit and for eliminating the need for specific reagents. Therefore, this work developed and validated a screening method for AAS in dried urine spots by paper spray-mass spectrometry ionization. The method provided detection limits between 2-15ng/mL and the presence of three endogenous interferents. The ten analytes of interest in this study are stable for 150 days at room temperature. Thus, the analysis of AAS in dried urine spots by PS-MS demonstrates great potential to become an alternative method for the rapid monitoring of drugs of abuse

Colestasis inducida por anabólicos: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Anabolic-induced cholestasis: case report and literature review

La función metabólica y de excreción está determinada principalmente por la actividad hepática, esto predispone al hígado a lesión inducida por toxicidad, en donde la disfunción es mediada directa o indirectamente por xenobióticos y/o sus metabolitos. La enfermedad hepática inducida por fármacos (DILI) es una condición poco frecuente, que se relaciona hasta con el 50% de las insuficiencias hepáticas agudas, y de ahí su importancia. La lesión directa puede estar dirigida a hepatocitos, conductos biliares y estructuras vasculares; no obstante, diferentes xenobióticos pueden interferir con el flujo de bilis mediante el bloqueo directo de proteínas de trasporte en los canalículos. Actualmente no existen marcadores absolutos para el diagnóstico de esta entidad y las manifestaciones clínicas pueden ser variables, desde el espectro de alteraciones bioquímicas en ausencia de síntomas, hasta insuficiencia hepática aguda y daño hepático crónico, por lo cual es principalmente un diagnóstico de exclusión basado en evidencia circunstancial. A partir de esta inferencia, se han desarrollado escalas y algoritmos para evaluar la probabilidad de lesión hepática inducida por medicamentos, tóxicos, herbales o suplementos. En la mayoría de los casos, es característico que la condición del paciente mejore cuando se elimina el fármaco responsable del daño. Aunque el patrón colestásico generalmente tiene mejores tasas de supervivencia en comparación con otros patrones, también se asocia con un alto riesgo de desarrollar enfermedad hepática crónica o ser el desencadenante de manifestaciones inmunológicas en el hígado. Se presenta el caso clínico de un paciente con patrón colestásico de DILI por uso de esteroides anabólicos.

Metabolic and excretory function is determined mainly by liver activity which can make this organ susceptible to toxic injury, where dysfunction is directly or indirectly mediated by xenobiotics and/ or their metabolites. Drug-induced liver disease (DILI) is a rare condition, which is associated with up to 50% of acute liver failure, and hence its importance. Direct injury can be directed to hepatocytes, bile ducts, and vascular structures, however, different xenobiotics can interfere with bile flow by directly blocking transport proteins in the canaliculi. Currently there are no definite markers for the diagnosis of this condition, and clinical manifestations can be variable, including biochemical changes in the absence of symptoms to acute liver failure and chronic liver damage, which makes it mainly an exclusion diagnosis based on clinical evidence. Scales and algorithms have been developed to assess the probability of drug, toxic, herbal, or supplement-induced liver injury. In most cases, the patient's condition typically improves when the drug responsible for the injury is removed. Although the cholestatic pattern generally has better survival rates compared to other patterns, it is also associated with a high risk of developing chronic liver disease or acting as a trigger for immune disorders in the liver. The clinical case of a patient with a cholestatic pattern of DILI due to the use of anabolic steroids is presented.

Anabolic steroid-induced myositis and osteitis. case report through a radiologic approach

ABSTRACT Introduction: Myositis is a rare complication of extra-articular anabolic steroid injections, while osteitis has not been reported as an adverse effect from this cause. This case report provides information about imaging findings of these two entities. Case presentation: A 37-year-old male, bodybuilder, presented pain and edema in the left gluteal region, associated with functional limitation, 5 days after receiving an intramuscular anabolic steroid injection (stanozolol). The man underwent an ultrasound scan and magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis with contrast, which allowed making the diagnosis of myositis of the left gluteus maximus and osteitis of the iliac bone. The patient was treated with piperacillin-tazobactam and vancomycin for 10 days, without complications. No surgical management was required. Conclusion: Myositis is a rare complication of anabolic steroid injections and the pathophysiological mechanism of this substance is unknown. Osteitis, on the other hand, is an even rarer complication and, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first known case associated with this cause. Given the findings, the myositis reported herein has an infectious nature; however, further studies are required to demonstrate the actual causal association.

RESUMEN Introducción. La miositis es una complicación muy rara de las inyecciones extraarticulares de esteroides anabólicos y la osteítis no ha sido reportada como efecto adverso por esta causa. El presente reporte de caso aporta información sobre los hallazgos imagenológicos de estos dos tipos de inflamaciones. Presentación del caso. Paciente masculino de 37 años, dedicado al fisicoculturismo, quien cinco días después de recibir una inyección de estano-zolol presentó dolor y edema en la región glútea izquierda asociados a limitación funcional. El sujeto asistió a consulta por este motivo y se le realizó una ecografía y una resonancia magnética contrastada de pelvis, cuyos resultados permitieron diagnosticarle miositis del glúteo mayor izquierdo y osteítis del hueso ilíaco. Se indicó tratamiento con piperacilina-tazobactam y vancomicina por 10 días y no se requirió manejo quirúrgico dado que se obtuvieron buenos resultados. Conclusión. La miositis es una complicación rara de las inyecciones de esteroides anabólicos en donde el mecanismo fisiopatológico de estas sustancias es incierto. Por su parte, la osteítis es una complicación aún más rara de la cual se presenta el primer caso conocido por esta causa. Dados los hallazgos se plantea que la miositis reportada es de tipo infecciosa; sin embargo, se requieren estudios adicionales que demuestren la asociación causal real.

Current use and abuse of anabolic steroids. / Uso y abuso de agentes anabolizantes en la actualidad.

Common abuse of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) is no longer confined to high performance athletes, as it has spread among the general population. Epidemiological data about the abuse of these substances show that it is a common practice in young populations. Its use is based on the desire to increase muscle mass and strength, as well as improving physical performance. The ease of acquisition of this type of substances has developed a "sophisticated" knowledge of steroid pharmacology based on subjective and anecdotal analysis with no adverse event information, which translates into a public health crisis. Unfortunately, athletes seem to be more influenced by these experiences than by their physician's advice. The abuse of AAS by the athlete and non-athlete population and its adverse events ought to be evaluated in order to improve routine clinical practice on this regard.

Kidney disease associated with androgenic-anabolic steroids and vitamin supplements abuse: Be aware!

The excessive chase for beauty standards and the rise of muscle dysmorphia have ultimately led to an increase in androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) and intramuscular injections of vitamins A, D and E (ADE) abuse, which is associated with several adverse effects and has become a public health issue. This review of literature discusses kidney injury associated with the use of AAS and ADE, highlighting the mechanisms of acute and chronic renal lesion, such as direct renal toxicity, glomerular hyperfiltration and hypercalcemia. Future perspectives regarding evaluation and early diagnosis of kidney injury in these patients are also discussed.

Hepatotoxicidad por esteroides anabólicos androgénicos, reporte de 2 casos en Uruguay / Hepatotoxicity induced by anabolic-androgenic steroids, 2 cases report in Uruguay / Hepatotoxicidade por anabolizantes esteróides androgênicos, relato de 2 casos no Uruguai

El consumo ilícito de esteroides anabólicos androgénicos con fines estéticos ha aumentado en los últimos años y, aunque raro, es causa de hepatotoxicidad. Los casos con daño hepatocelular son más frecuentes, pero los colestásicos son más graves y pueden asociarse a falla renal. Salvo por la suspensión del fármaco, la hepatotoxicidad por anabólicos no tiene tratamiento específico. Se describe y discuten las historias clínicas de dos hombres jóvenes, deportistas aficionados que consultaron por ictericia y presentaron colestasis e insuficiencia renal. El reporte de casos, en patologías poco frecuentes, resulta fundamental para difundir y ampliar la información que ayude al clínico a considerar con firmeza este diagnóstico, incluso ante la falta de reconocimiento inicial del consumo por parte del paciente.

Illicit consumption of anabolic-androgenic steroids for aesthetic purposes has increased in recent years. Hepatocellular damage is more frequent, but cholestasis is more dangerous and may be associated with renal failure. The clinical records of two young men, amateur athletes who consulted for jaundice in the last year and denied its consumption at the beginning, are described. Except for the drug interruption, hepatotoxicity by anabolics has no specific treatment. Usually presented as cholestatic liver disease and renal failure, case reports are fundamental to characterize its clinical-evolutionary presentation. This may also allow clinicians to firmly consider diagnosis even when the patient denies consumption.

O uso ilícito de esteróides androgênicos anabólicos para fins estéticos tem aumentado nos últimos anos e, apesar de raro, é causa de hepatotoxicidade. Casos com dano hepatocelular são mais freqüentes, mas colestesia é mais grave e pode estar associada à insuficiência renal. Com exceção da suspensão do medicamento, a hepatotoxicidade anabólica não possui tratamento específico. As histórias clínicas de dois homens jovens, atletas amadores que consultaram para icterícia e apresentaram colestase e insuficiência renal, são descritos e discutidos. O relato de casos, em patologias pouco freqüentes, é fundamental para disseminar e ampliar as informações que auxiliam o clínico a considerar com firmeza esse diagnóstico antes mesmo do não reconhecimento inicial do consumo pelo paciente.

Paro cardiaco repentino atribuido a miocardiopatía hipertrófica por uso de esteroides anabólicos. Reporte de caso / Sudden cardiac arrest attributed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy by use of anabolic steroids. Case report / Parada cardíaca súbita atribuída a cardiomiopatia hipertrófica pelo uso de esteróides anabolizantes. Informe de um caso

Resumen: La miocardiopatía hipertrófica se caracteriza por hipertrofia asimétrica y no dilatada del ventrículo izquierdo, la muerte súbita es probablemente consecuencia de alteraciones eléctricas impredecibles del miocardio que producen arritmias letales. Las miocardiopatías se definen por la existencia de anomalías estructurales y funcionales del ventrículo izquierdo que no pueden explicarse por enfermedad coronaria o por condiciones de carga anómalas, lo que causa un aumento del grosor de la pared del ventrículo izquierdo. En este grupo de enfermedades existen causas genéticas y no genéticas, dentro de éstas se describen las asociadas al uso de fármacos incluidos los esteroides anabólicos androgénicos. Los esteroides anabólicos androgénicos se utilizan para promover el incremento de masa muscular para mejorar el desempeño de los atletas, esto ha llevado al uso y abuso de estos productos en atletas profesionales y recreacionales. El uso crónico en dosis suprafisiológicas en esta población se asocia a diversas manifestaciones cardiovasculares como miocardiopatía hipertrófica, esta asociación entre el uso de esteroides anabólicos androgénicos y la hipertrofia cardiaca quedó demostrada en un estudio por hallazgos patológicos en usuarios de esteroides anabólicos androgénicos fallecidos.1 El objetivo de esta comunicación es reportar un caso clínico inusual en nuestro ámbito hospitalario de un paciente con uso crónico de esteroides anabólicos androgénicos y miocardiopatía hipertrófica.

Abstract: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is characterized by asymmetric and non-dilated left ventricle hypertrophy, sudden death is probably a consequence of unpredictable myocardial electrical disturbances that produce lethal arrhythmias. Cardiomyopathies are defined by the existence of structural and functional abnormalities of the left ventricle that can not be explained by coronary disease or abnormal load conditions causing the increased thickness of the wall of the left ventricle, within this diseases group exists genetic and nongenetic causes, these are described associated drugs including the use of anabolic androgenic steroids. Anabolic androgenic steroids are used to promote increased muscle mass, to improve the performance of athletes, this has led to the use and abuse of these products in professional and recreational athletes, chronic use in supraphysiological dose in this population is attaches a several cardiovascular manifestations as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, this association between the use of anabolic androgenic steroids and cardiac hypertrophy has been shown in a study by pathological findings in ASS users deceased.1 The purpose of this communication is to report an unusual case in our hospital of a patient with chronic use of anabolic androgenic steroids and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Resumo: A cardiomiopatia hipertrófica é caracterizada por hipertrofia assimétrica e não-dilatada do ventrículo esquerdo, a morte súbita é provavelmente devido a alterações elétricas imprevisíveis do miocárdio que produzem arritmias letais. As cardiomiopatias são definidas pela existência de anomalias estruturais e funcionais do ventrículo esquerdo que não pode ser explicado por doenças coronárias ou condições de cargas anormais que provocam um aumento na espessura da parede ventricular esquerda, dentro deste grupo de doenças existem causas genéticas e não genéticas, dentro destas se descrevem as que estão associadas com o uso de medicamentos, incluindo os esteróides anabólico-androgênicos. Os esteróides anabólico-androgênicos são usados para promover o aumento da massa muscular para melhorar o desempenho dos atletas, o que levou ao uso e abuso desses produtos em atletas profissionais e amadores, o uso crônico em doses suprafisiológicas nesta população está associado a vários eventos cardiovasculares, tais como cardiomiopatia hipertrófica, esta associação entre o uso de esteróides anabólico-androgênicos e hipertrofia cardíaca foi demonstrado em um estudo por um descubrimento patológico em usuários de esteróides anabólico-andrôgenicos falecidos.1 O objetivo do presente informe é relatar um caso clínico incomum em nosso hospital de um paciente com o uso crônico de esteróides anabólico-androgênicos e cardiomiopatia hipertrófica.

Uso de Esteroides Anabólicos en Jóvenes de Asunción / Anabolic Steroid Use in Young People of Asuncion

Los esteroides anabólicos típicamente usados por jóvenes, atletas y culturistas para incrementar el musculo y la fuerza son peligrosos, están accesibles, y se prescriben de manera errónea como eficaces, pero con riesgo bajo. No solo los atletas consumen esteroides anabólicos. Algunos jóvenes los toman para lucir más musculosos o para quemar grasa. El objetivo del estudio fue identificar los factores asociados al uso de anabólicos esteroides en jóvenes de 16 a 25 años que asisten al Gimnasio Fitness Family Caff de Asunción, conocer los datos socio-demográficos, caracterizar los conocimientos y el uso de esteroides anabólicos en el gimnasio y determinar el factor de consumo de esteroides anabólicos de acuerdo a la práctica en el gimnasio. Estudio tipo observacional descriptivo de corte transversal que contó con la participación de 41 jóvenes provenientes en su mayoría de Asunción. En cuanto a los factores se determinó que su uso está motivado por mejorar el aspecto físico, es decir, por un factor estético al igual que por la participación en competencias fitness

Anabolic steroids, typically used by young people, athletes and bodybuilders to increase muscle and strength, are dangerous, accessible and are prescribed incorrectly as effective, but with low risk. Not only athletes consume anabolic steroids. Some young people take them to look more muscular or for fat burning. The study had the following objectives: To identify factors associated with the use of anabolic steroids in 16 to 25 years young people who attend the Family Fitness Caff Gym in Asuncion, to know the socio-demographic data, characterize the knowledge and use of anabolic steroids in the gym, and determine the consumption factor of anabolic steroids according to the practice in the gym. This was an observational descriptive cross-sectional study. The study had the participation of 41 young people, mostly from Asuncion. In relation to the factors, it was determined that their use was motivated to improve their physical appearance; this is to say, for an aesthetic factor as well as for the participation in fitness competitions.

O significado dos anabolizantes para os adolescentes / The meaning of the steroids anabolics for teenagers / El significado de los esteroides anabólicos para adolescentes

Este estudo objetivou conhecer o conceito de anabolizantes e identificar benefícios e malefícios do uso, segundo adolescentes. Participaram 508 estudantes do ensino médio de duas escolas públicas, com 16,2 anos, em média. Utilizou-se um questionário semiaberto abordando o conceito, os benefícios e malefícios dos anabolizantes. O corpus foi único e as respostas foram analisadas com o software IRAMUTEQ, através de Classificação Hierárquica Descendente (CHD). Os resultados indicaram três principais classes: (1) Conceitos de anabolizantes, (2) Benefícios derivados dos anabolizantes, e (3) Prejuízos derivados dos anabolizantes. A primeira apontou três principais conceitos de anabolizantes: (a) "algo que aumenta a massa muscular"; (b) "melhora o desempenho na academia"; e (c) "paradoxo: mau e bom". A classe dos benefícios demonstrou que os adolescentes não destacam apenas os ganhos, mas também os custos, apesar das vantagens serem sobrepostas. A terceira classe indicou que há certo conhecimento a respeito dos malefícios dos anabolizantes, mas que ainda pode representar riscos e levar a uma subestimação dos efeitos colaterais decorrentes do uso. Portanto, os adolescentes se remetem à preocupação de seu grupo quanto à aparência física e apresentam um discurso sobre os anabolizantes voltado para a saúde, seja através de uma falsa aparência saudável ou dos prejuízos.(AU)

This study investigated the concept of anabolic steroids and identified benefits and harms of using according to adolescents. There were 508 high school students from two public schools, with 16.2 years on average. We used a semi-open questionnaire addressing the concept, the benefits and harms derived from steroids. The corpus was unique and the answers were analyzed with the software IRAMUTEQ, by Hierarchical Classification Descending (CHD). The results indicated three main classes: (1) Concepts of steroids, (2) Benefits derived from steroids, and (3) Losses derived from steroids. The first indicated three main concepts of steroids: (a) "something that increases muscle mass"; (b) "improves performance at the gym"; and (c) "paradox: good and bad." The class of benefits showed that adolescents do not highlight only gains, but also the costs, despite the advantages being overlapping. The third class indicated that there is some knowledge about the harms of anabolic steroids, but may create hazards and lead to an underestimation of the side effects of using. Therefore, adolescents referred the concern of his group regarding physical appearance and they present a discourse about steroids focused on health, either through a false healthy appearance or emphasize the damages.(AU)

Este estudio investigó el concepto de esteroides anabólicos e identificó riesgos y beneficios de su utilización, según adolescentes. Participarón 508 estudiantes secundaristas de dos escuelas públicas, con 16,2 años de media. Se utilizó un cuestionario semi-abierto abordando el concepto, beneficios y daños de los esteroides. Fue un solo corpus y se analizaron las respuestas con el software IRAMUTEQ, mediante Clasificación Jerárquica Descendente (CJD). Los resultados indicaron tres clases: (1) Conceptos de los esteroides, (2) Los beneficios derivados de los esteroides, y (3) Pierdas relacionadas a los esteroides. En la primera clase fueron identificados tres conceptos: (a) "algo que aumenta la masa muscular"; (b) "mejora el rendimiento en el gimnasio"; y (c) "paradoja: bien y mal." La clase de beneficios demostró que los adolescentes no destacan sólo los beneficios, sino también los costes, a pesar de las ventajas que se superponen. La tercera clase indicó que hay poco conocimiento acerca de los daños causados por los anabólicos, pero también pueden representar riesgos y subestimar sus perjuicios. Por lo tanto, los adolescentes remiten la preocupación de su grupo con la imagen física y presentan un discurso sobre la salud, sea a través de una falsa apariencia saludable o relacionado a los daños.(AU)

O significado dos anabolizantes para os adolescentes / The meaning of the steroids anabolics for teenagers / El significado de los esteroides anabólicos para adolescentes

Este estudo objetivou conhecer o conceito de anabolizantes e identificar benefícios e malefícios do uso, segundo adolescentes. Participaram 508 estudantes do ensino médio de duas escolas públicas, com 16,2 anos, em média. Utilizou-se um questionário semiaberto abordando o conceito, os benefícios e malefícios dos anabolizantes. O corpus foi único e as respostas foram analisadas com o software IRAMUTEQ, através de Classificação Hierárquica Descendente (CHD). Os resultados indicaram três principais classes: (1) Conceitos de anabolizantes, (2) Benefícios derivados dos anabolizantes, e (3) Prejuízos derivados dos anabolizantes. A primeira apontou três principais conceitos de anabolizantes: (a) "algo que aumenta a massa muscular"; (b) "melhora o desempenho na academia"; e (c) "paradoxo: mau e bom". A classe dos benefícios demonstrou que os adolescentes não destacam apenas os ganhos, mas também os custos, apesar das vantagens serem sobrepostas. A terceira classe indicou que há certo conhecimento a respeito dos malefícios dos anabolizantes, mas que ainda pode representar riscos e levar a uma subestimação dos efeitos colaterais decorrentes do uso. Portanto, os adolescentes se remetem à preocupação de seu grupo quanto à aparência física e apresentam um discurso sobre os anabolizantes voltado para a saúde, seja através de uma falsa aparência saudável ou dos prejuízos.

This study investigated the concept of anabolic steroids and identified benefits and harms of using according to adolescents. There were 508 high school students from two public schools, with 16.2 years on average. We used a semi-open questionnaire addressing the concept, the benefits and harms derived from steroids. The corpus was unique and the answers were analyzed with the software IRAMUTEQ, by Hierarchical Classification Descending (CHD). The results indicated three main classes: (1) Concepts of steroids, (2) Benefits derived from steroids, and (3) Losses derived from steroids. The first indicated three main concepts of steroids: (a) "something that increases muscle mass"; (b) "improves performance at the gym"; and (c) "paradox: good and bad." The class of benefits showed that adolescents do not highlight only gains, but also the costs, despite the advantages being overlapping. The third class indicated that there is some knowledge about the harms of anabolic steroids, but may create hazards and lead to an underestimation of the side effects of using. Therefore, adolescents referred the concern of his group regarding physical appearance and they present a discourse about steroids focused on health, either through a false healthy appearance or emphasize the damages.

Este estudio investigó el concepto de esteroides anabólicos e identificó riesgos y beneficios de su utilización, según adolescentes. Participarón 508 estudiantes secundaristas de dos escuelas públicas, con 16,2 años de media. Se utilizó un cuestionario semi-abierto abordando el concepto, beneficios y daños de los esteroides. Fue un solo corpus y se analizaron las respuestas con el software IRAMUTEQ, mediante Clasificación Jerárquica Descendente (CJD). Los resultados indicaron tres clases: (1) Conceptos de los esteroides, (2) Los beneficios derivados de los esteroides, y (3) Pierdas relacionadas a los esteroides. En la primera clase fueron identificados tres conceptos: (a) "algo que aumenta la masa muscular"; (b) "mejora el rendimiento en el gimnasio"; y (c) "paradoja: bien y mal." La clase de beneficios demostró que los adolescentes no destacan sólo los beneficios, sino también los costes, a pesar de las ventajas que se superponen. La tercera clase indicó que hay poco conocimiento acerca de los daños causados por los anabólicos, pero también pueden representar riesgos y subestimar sus perjuicios. Por lo tanto, los adolescentes remiten la preocupación de su grupo con la imagen física y presentan un discurso sobre la salud, sea a través de una falsa apariencia saludable o relacionado a los daños.

Ginecomastia: aspectos clínicos y etiológicos. Estudio retrospectivo y multicéntrico / Gynecomastia: Clinical and Ethiological Aspects. Retrospective, Multicenter Study

La ginecomastia es el agrandamiento benigno del tejido mamario en el varón. Es una causa frecuente de consulta que produce ansiedad e incomodidad y puede ser la expresión clínica de una enfermedad relevante. Objetivos: 1) Evaluar las características de presentación de la ginecomastia y el perfil bioquímico; 2) Evaluar la etiología de la ginecomastia en la población estudiada. Material y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, multicéntrico. Se evaluaron las historias clínicas de 220 varones (18-85 años) con diagnóstico clínico y por imágenes de ginecomastia, con evaluación bioquímica completa. Resultados: Se observó mayor prevalencia entre 21-30 años de edad (n = 66; 30 %). La mayoría consultó en forma espontánea (77,7 %); el resto fue derivado por otras especialidades. Principales motivos de consulta: razones estéticas (70,4 %) y dolor (27,3 %). El 23,2 % tenía antecedente de ginecomastia puberal. El tiempo de evolución previo a la consulta fue muy variable: 1 mes a 40 años. Examen físico: 122 pacientes (55,4 %) presentaron ginecomastia bilateral y 98 (44,6 %) unilateral (54,1 % izquierda y 45,9 % derecha). El 44,8 % presentó sobrepeso y 22,4 % obesidad. En 29,1 % se constató dolor mamario al examen. Un paciente (con macroprolactinoma) presentó secreción mamaria espontánea y 3 pacientes secreción mamaria provocada. Etiología: la ginecomastia idiopática fue la más frecuente (49,1 %) y de las causas secundarias, el consumo de anabólicos. Se constató un 10 % de pacientes con hipoandrogenismo, 16,4 % con hiperprolactinemia y 10,5 % con hiperestrogenemia. En 6 casos coexistieron 2 causas (total 226 causas). No se hallaron marcadores oncológicos elevados. En los < 40 años las causas más frecuentes fueron uso de anabólicos y ginecomastia puberal persistente; y en los > 40 años fueron hipogonadismo y consumo de fármacos. Los pacientes con ginecomastia bilateral tuvieron mayor tiempo de evolución, mayor IMC y menores niveles de TT versus ginecomastia ...

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of breast tissue in men. It occurs physiologically in three stages of life: newborns, pubescent boys and older adults. It is a frequent reason for consulting and -though generally benign- it produces anxiety and discomfort. It is important to differentiate between the asymptomatic presence of palpable breast tissue, which is of little clinical relevance, and a recent onset breast enlargement usually associated with pain and swelling, which can be a sign of illness or pharmacological impact. Aims: To evaluate the presenting features (symptoms, duration, laterality, etc.) and biochemical profile of gynecomastia; to assess the etiology of gynecomastia in the study population. Methods: Retrospective, multicenter study. We evaluated the medical records of 220 men aged 18-85 years (average age 33 years: median 39.5 ± 19.6 years) with imaging and clinical diagnosis of gynecomastia who had undergone biochemical assessment. The consultation period was from May 2002 to June 2013. The following data was assessed: breast pain, duration of gynecomastia, sexual function, galactorrhea, weight change, habits (alcohol, drug addiction, anabolic steroids), history of pubertal gynecomastia, use of medication and family history of gynecomastia. Physical examination: weight, height, body mass index (BMI), breast and gonadal examination. Laboratory: total testosterone (TT), bioavailable testosterone (Bio-T), estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, prolactin, thyrotropin, alpha fetoprotein, β subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin and carcinoembryonic antigen. For hormonal abnormalities, each site’s reference values were considered. In all patients, gynecomastia was confirmed by ultrasound and / or mammography. Results: A higher prevalence of gynecomastia is observed in the age range between 21 and 30 years (n = 66; 30 %). Most patients presented spontaneously (77.7 %); the rest were referred from other specialties. The most frequent reasons for consultation were aesthetic reasons (70.4 %) and breast pain (27.3 %). Twenty-three point two percent of subjects had a history of pubertal gynecomastia. Evolution time prior to consultation was highly variable (1 month to 40 years). On physical examination, 122 patients (55.4 %) had bilateral and 98 patients (44.6 %) had unilateral gynecomastia (54.1 % left and 45.9 % right); 44.8 % were overweight and 22.4 % were obese. BMI: 27.2 ± 4.3 kg/m2. In 29.1 % of patients breast pain was identified on medical examination. One patient (with macroprolactinoma) had spontaneous galactorrhea and in 3 patients mammary secretion was found on physical examination. Gonadal examination was performed in 147 patients, 126 had normal testicular volume, 10 had bilateral hypotrophy, 7 had unilateral hypotrophy and 4 unilateral absence of the testis. Idiopathic gynecomastia was the most common etiology (47.8 %). The most relevant secondary cause of gynecomastia was anabolic steroids consumption (14.1 %). In 6 cases two causes coexisted (total: 226 causes). Elevated cancer markers were not found in any of the cases. If we divide the population into patients younger and older than 40, in the former the most common second­ary causes were the use of anabolic steroids and persistent pubertal gynecomastia, while in patients older than 40, they were hypogonadism and medical drug use. Patients with bilateral gynecomastia had a longer history of gynecomastia: 3.4 ± 5.7 versus 1.4 ± 1.9 years (p = 0.0004); higher BMI: 28.4 ± 4.4 versus 25.5 ± 3.5 kg/m2 (p < 0.0001) and lower TT levels: 4.7 ± 2.0 versus 5.4 ± 1.9 ng/ml (p=0.019) than patients with unilateral gynecomastia, respectively. A negative correlation between BMI and TT was found (r= -0.38, p< 0.0001). No correlation between BMI and E2 and between BMI and bio-T was found. Ultrasound was used in 83.2 % of patients and mammography in 43.6 % (both 28.2 %). Conclusions: Patients with gynecomastia consulted more often for aesthetic reasons and secondarily for breast pain. Detection of galactorrhea was rare. Gonadal examination was normal in most patients and 66.7 % were overweight or obese. Just over half of the patients presented with bilateral gynecomastia and compared with cases of unilateral gynecomastia, they had a longer history of disease, higher BMI and lower TT levels. The most common cause of gynecomastia was idiopathic in all age groups. Persistent pubertal gynecomastia and anabolic steroids consumption were frequent in patients younger than 40 years, and medical drug use and hypogonadism in patients over 40. The presence of gynecomastia may be the expression of an underlying and clinically relevant disease. This highlights the need for an adequate and complete clinical, biochemical and imaging assessment in these patients. Rev Argent Endocrinol Metab 52:22-28, 2015 No financial conflicts of interest exist.

Ginecomastia: aspectos clínicos y etiológicos. Estudio retrospectivo y multicéntrico / Gynecomastia: Clinical and Ethiological Aspects. Retrospective, Multicenter Study

La ginecomastia es el agrandamiento benigno del tejido mamario en el varón. Es una causa frecuente de consulta que produce ansiedad e incomodidad y puede ser la expresión clínica de una enfermedad relevante. Objetivos: 1) Evaluar las características de presentación de la ginecomastia y el perfil bioquímico; 2) Evaluar la etiología de la ginecomastia en la población estudiada. Material y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, multicéntrico. Se evaluaron las historias clínicas de 220 varones (18-85 años) con diagnóstico clínico y por imágenes de ginecomastia, con evaluación bioquímica completa. Resultados: Se observó mayor prevalencia entre 21-30 años de edad (n = 66; 30 %). La mayoría consultó en forma espontánea (77,7 %); el resto fue derivado por otras especialidades. Principales motivos de consulta: razones estéticas (70,4 %) y dolor (27,3 %). El 23,2 % tenía antecedente de ginecomastia puberal. El tiempo de evolución previo a la consulta fue muy variable: 1 mes a 40 años. Examen físico: 122 pacientes (55,4 %) presentaron ginecomastia bilateral y 98 (44,6 %) unilateral (54,1 % izquierda y 45,9 % derecha). El 44,8 % presentó sobrepeso y 22,4 % obesidad. En 29,1 % se constató dolor mamario al examen. Un paciente (con macroprolactinoma) presentó secreción mamaria espontánea y 3 pacientes secreción mamaria provocada. Etiología: la ginecomastia idiopática fue la más frecuente (49,1 %) y de las causas secundarias, el consumo de anabólicos. Se constató un 10 % de pacientes con hipoandrogenismo, 16,4 % con hiperprolactinemia y 10,5 % con hiperestrogenemia. En 6 casos coexistieron 2 causas (total 226 causas). No se hallaron marcadores oncológicos elevados. En los < 40 años las causas más frecuentes fueron uso de anabólicos y ginecomastia puberal persistente; y en los > 40 años fueron hipogonadismo y consumo de fármacos. Los pacientes con ginecomastia bilateral tuvieron mayor tiempo de evolución, mayor IMC y menores niveles de TT versus ginecomastia ...(AU)

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of breast tissue in men. It occurs physiologically in three stages of life: newborns, pubescent boys and older adults. It is a frequent reason for consulting and -though generally benign- it produces anxiety and discomfort. It is important to differentiate between the asymptomatic presence of palpable breast tissue, which is of little clinical relevance, and a recent onset breast enlargement usually associated with pain and swelling, which can be a sign of illness or pharmacological impact. Aims: To evaluate the presenting features (symptoms, duration, laterality, etc.) and biochemical profile of gynecomastia; to assess the etiology of gynecomastia in the study population. Methods: Retrospective, multicenter study. We evaluated the medical records of 220 men aged 18-85 years (average age 33 years: median 39.5 ± 19.6 years) with imaging and clinical diagnosis of gynecomastia who had undergone biochemical assessment. The consultation period was from May 2002 to June 2013. The following data was assessed: breast pain, duration of gynecomastia, sexual function, galactorrhea, weight change, habits (alcohol, drug addiction, anabolic steroids), history of pubertal gynecomastia, use of medication and family history of gynecomastia. Physical examination: weight, height, body mass index (BMI), breast and gonadal examination. Laboratory: total testosterone (TT), bioavailable testosterone (Bio-T), estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, prolactin, thyrotropin, alpha fetoprotein, β subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin and carcinoembryonic antigen. For hormonal abnormalities, each site’s reference values were considered. In all patients, gynecomastia was confirmed by ultrasound and / or mammography. Results: A higher prevalence of gynecomastia is observed in the age range between 21 and 30 years (n = 66; 30 %). Most patients presented spontaneously (77.7 %); the rest were referred from other specialties. The most frequent reasons for consultation were aesthetic reasons (70.4 %) and breast pain (27.3 %). Twenty-three point two percent of subjects had a history of pubertal gynecomastia. Evolution time prior to consultation was highly variable (1 month to 40 years). On physical examination, 122 patients (55.4 %) had bilateral and 98 patients (44.6 %) had unilateral gynecomastia (54.1 % left and 45.9 % right); 44.8 % were overweight and 22.4 % were obese. BMI: 27.2 ± 4.3 kg/m2. In 29.1 % of patients breast pain was identified on medical examination. One patient (with macroprolactinoma) had spontaneous galactorrhea and in 3 patients mammary secretion was found on physical examination. Gonadal examination was performed in 147 patients, 126 had normal testicular volume, 10 had bilateral hypotrophy, 7 had unilateral hypotrophy and 4 unilateral absence of the testis. Idiopathic gynecomastia was the most common etiology (47.8 %). The most relevant secondary cause of gynecomastia was anabolic steroids consumption (14.1 %). In 6 cases two causes coexisted (total: 226 causes). Elevated cancer markers were not found in any of the cases. If we divide the population into patients younger and older than 40, in the former the most common second¡ary causes were the use of anabolic steroids and persistent pubertal gynecomastia, while in patients older than 40, they were hypogonadism and medical drug use. Patients with bilateral gynecomastia had a longer history of gynecomastia: 3.4 ± 5.7 versus 1.4 ± 1.9 years (p = 0.0004); higher BMI: 28.4 ± 4.4 versus 25.5 ± 3.5 kg/m2 (p < 0.0001) and lower TT levels: 4.7 ± 2.0 versus 5.4 ± 1.9 ng/ml (p=0.019) than patients with unilateral gynecomastia, respectively. A negative correlation between BMI and TT was found (r= -0.38, p< 0.0001). No correlation between BMI and E2 and between BMI and bio-T was found. Ultrasound was used in 83.2 % of patients and mammography in 43.6 % (both 28.2 %). Conclusions: Patients with gynecomastia consulted more often for aesthetic reasons and secondarily for breast pain. Detection of galactorrhea was rare. Gonadal examination was normal in most patients and 66.7 % were overweight or obese. Just over half of the patients presented with bilateral gynecomastia and compared with cases of unilateral gynecomastia, they had a longer history of disease, higher BMI and lower TT levels. The most common cause of gynecomastia was idiopathic in all age groups. Persistent pubertal gynecomastia and anabolic steroids consumption were frequent in patients younger than 40 years, and medical drug use and hypogonadism in patients over 40. The presence of gynecomastia may be the expression of an underlying and clinically relevant disease. This highlights the need for an adequate and complete clinical, biochemical and imaging assessment in these patients. Rev Argent Endocrinol Metab 52:22-28, 2015 No financial conflicts of interest exist.(AU)

Esteroides androgénicos anabolizantes: consecuencias en el hombre / Anabolic androgenic steroids: consequences in the man

El abuso de Esteroides Androgénicos Anabolizantes (EAA) se ha convertido en una práctica frecuente en hombres. Deportistas de alto rendimiento y fisicoculturistas eran los usuarios más frecuentes de este tipo de fármacos, sin embargo, en los últimos 10 años se ha observado una preocupante prevalencia de abuso en hombres jóvenes y usuarios de gimnasios con el fin simplemente de mejorar su aspecto físico. Muchas veces este tipo de fármacos son adquiridos al margen de la legalidad, promocionados en internet, sin la supervisión médica, necesaria al sostener una terapia hormonal. La autoadministración de EAA en altas dosis guarda implicancias negativas poco conocidas o inadvertidas por lo usuarios. Dentro de estas destacan las consecuencias andrológicas propias del abuso de estas sustancias como son la disfunción sexual, alteraciones reproductivas, metabólicas y psicógenas. El objetivo de esta revisión es acercar el conocimiento actual sobre los riesgos e implicancias en el hombre del abuso de los EAA.

Anabolic Androgenic Steroid (EAA) Abuse has turned into a common practice upon men. High performance sportsmen and body builders were the most common users of these drugs, but in the last 10 years there has been a worrying prevalence of abuse in young men and fitness studio users with the aim of obtaining better physical aspect. Many times these drugs are bought at the margins of legality, promoted in Internet, without the medical supervision needed for hormonal therapy. Self-administration of EAA in high doses has negative effects that may be not known or unnoticed by users. Some of them are Sexual Dysfunction, reproductive, metabolic or psychological alterations. The purpose of this revision is to come closer to today’s knowledge of the risks of abuse of EAA in men.