Risk of Erythrocytosis in Transgender Individuals Undergoing Testosterone Therapy: A Systematic Review
July 2024
in “
Minerva Endocrinology
”
TLDR Testosterone therapy in transgender individuals can increase the risk of erythrocytosis.
This systematic review found that the prevalence of erythrocytosis in transgender individuals undergoing testosterone therapy ranged from 0% to 29.3%, with severe cases between 0.5% and 2.3%. Testosterone therapy was linked to increased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, especially in the first year. The development of erythrocytosis was associated with factors such as serum testosterone levels, therapy duration, doses, and formulation. The study highlights the need for further research to develop specific clinical recommendations.