Testosterone Pellet Associated Dermatitis: Report and Review of Testopel-related Cutaneous Adverse Effects

Abstract

Testosterone replacement therapy is a treatment utilized for male hypogonadism. A subcutaneous testosterone pellet is a long-acting, slow-release delivery system that can be utilized as androgen replacement therapy. A 77-year-old man who was treated with testosterone pellets developed dermatitis consisting of erythematous plaques and patches on both buttocks and thighs within 28 days following the subcutaneous insertion of testosterone pellets. The skin lesions rapidly resolved with high-potency topical corticosteroid application. The same cutaneous eruption occurred with each subsequent insertion of testosterone pellets. Other cutaneous adverse events associated with testosterone pellet insertion include acne, hirsutism, and male pattern alopecia. Bleeding, bruising, fibrosis, infections, pellet extrusion, scarring, and subcutaneous nodules may also occur at the injection site. In summary, testosterone pellet-induced dermatitis is a rare adverse cutaneous event, which should be added to the list of potential testosterone pellet associated skin side effects.