[Hormone replacement Up-to-date. Effects of androgen replacement therapy on vascular function and atherosclerosis].

It has been postulated that testosterone is atherogenic in contrast to vasoprotective action of estrogen. Recent studies, however, have shown that partial androgen deficiency is associated with cardiovascular disease in the aging male. Although the results of some small-scale studies support the cardioprotective effects of androgen replacement therapy, clinical trials and investigations on the mechanism of action will be required to elucidate the application of androgen replacement therapy. This article illustrates the current concept on the role of testosterone in the cardiovascular system and disease in men.