Osteoporosis and male age-related hypogonadism: Role of sex steroids on bone (patho) physiology

Abstract

Male age-related bone loss is caused, at least in part, by hypogonadism that occurs with advancing age. The study of the effects of sex steroids on bone physiology in men has recently highlighted the central role of estrogens on bone pathophysiology. This review focuses on particular aspects of bone physiology and pathophysiology in aging men, noting both the similarities to and the differences from female counterparts. In particular, the role of sex steroids on bone sexual dimorphism in health and disease has been analyzed. © 2006 Society of the European Journal of Endocrinology.