Testosterone Effects on the Prostate Gland: Review of Pathophysiology and considerations in Prostate Cancer

Abstract

Testosterone replacement therapy is currently contraindicated in men with a history of prostate cancer. Despite this, new data is emerging in multiple retrospective studies and case reports of testosterone replacement therapy use after treatment for prostate cancer with results that call into question the contraindication. The goal of this paper is to review the association between androgens and the prostate gland physiology and pathology, and analyze the data available concerning the issue of testosterone replacement therapy in men with a history of prostate cancer. We suggest that testosterone replacement therapy may be considered as a reasonable therapeutic option for selected patients with prostate cancer history, but prospective studies are needed to further examine the safety and benefit.