Sexual health and testosterone concentration in male lymphoma survivors: A systematic review

Abstract

Advancements in lymphoma treatment have increased the number of long-term survivors who may experience late effects such as impaired sexual function and testosterone deficiency. The aim of this review was to determine the prevalence of testosterone deficiency and sexual dysfunction among male lymphoma survivors; and associations between the two. A systematic search identified 20 articles for inclusion. The prevalence of low total testosterone was 0%–50 %, with mean values within reference levels, and for luteinizing hormone above reference levels in 0%–80 %. Four studies included SHBG and free testosterone, with mixed results. Compromised sexual health was found in 23%–61 %. Overall, total testosterone and sexual health were associated. The risk of bias (ROBINS-E and RoB 2) was high/very high, leading to low/very low overall confidence in the bulk of evidence (GRADE). Longitudinal studies evaluating biologically active testosterone and sexual health are needed, to develop evidence based standard procedures for follow-up of sexual health.

Keywords

• Sexual health
• Erectile dysfunction
• Testosterone deficiency
• Testosterone
• Hypogonadism
• Androgen