Suggest Treatment For Testicular Atrophy And Erectile Dysfunction

Posted on Mon, 4 Jan 2016

Question: I am writing about a chronic problem that I have been dealing with for the past 15 years. All of this started after developing a UTI, which was successfully treated with antibiotics. I soon thereafter noticed that both of my testicles had shrunk. Over the next few years, I began to notice problems with hair loss as well as erectile dysfunction. These problems have worsened over time to the point where I am now completely bald. My testicles have seemingly continued to shrink. And I suffer from erectile dysfunction that is becoming less and less responsive to medication. I have asked a few doctors over the years, but no one has bothered checking more than a testosterone level, which always comes back normal. Would you have any advice as to other tests that may point to my problem? Thanks

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Testosterone

Detailed Answer:
I am sorry to note your medical problem related to the shrinking testicles and erectile dysfunction.

I see your testosterone apparently always checks out normal.

However testosterone can be a complex subject to interpret. Endocrinologists are best qualified to manage testosterone related matters, so it would be helpful if you were able to see one in person.

For example, the blood sample has to be drawn in the morning time before 10 am.

When I see someone like you in my practice, I typically order the following tests in addition to a detailed physical examination:

CBC
Electrolytes
Calcium
HbA1c
Liver function tests
Kidney function tests
TSH
25 hydroxy Vitamin D
Total Testosterone
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
FSH
LH
Prolactin

But if a test called Free Testosterone is available in your laboratory and if they use Equilibrium Dialysis as the method, then there is not much of a need to check

Total Testosterone
SHBG

Once thee results are in, one needs to be 100% sure that you do not have Testosterone deficiency as the potential cause of your symptoms.

The other tests that I have recommended above also give a fair idea regarding other possible reasons for your symptoms such as a thyroid condition.

Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar