Gonadal Function in Men with Cushing Syndrome

In a study of 37 males with Cushing syndrome (CS), researchers found that 65% experienced hypogonadism, characterized by decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, with 67.5% having low testosterone levels (<3 ng/ml). Gynecomastia was observed in 18.9% of participants. The study indicated that glucocorticoid excess in CS likely affected the hypothalamic-pituitary level, as suggested by hormonal assessments, although increased testosterone degradation or inhibition of testis receptors could not be excluded. The findings suggested that men with hypogonadism and/or gynecomastia should be evaluated for CS.