Male hypogonadism is a clinical situation characterized by a low serum testosterone level in
combination with a diversity of symptoms and signs such as reduced libido and vitality,
decreased muscle mass, increased fat mass and depression. Similar symptoms in combination
with subnormal testosterone levels are seen in some elderly men. Low testosterone levels are
associated with known cardiovascular risk factors, and men with diabetes and stroke have
lower testosterone levels than healthy men. Even though several publications have suggested
that testosterone treatment in hypogonadal men may have beneficial effects, it is still
uncertain if testosterone substitution in the aging man is indicated. Despite this
uncertainty the sale of testosterone has increased enormously the last few years.
We hypothesize that older men with subnormal testosterone levels have a varying degree of
dysfunction/symptoms both physically and mentally, and that these dysfunction/symptoms can be
improved with testosterone treatment.