Androgen plasma levels in male diabetics.

Plasma level of androgens were studied in 47 normal male controls (20-50 yr-old; mean age 38 yr) and in a group of forty-one male diabetics (23-55 yr-old; mean age: 37.5 yr). Of these 36 showed type II and 5 type I diabetes. The results showed that while the mean basal plasma LH was unchanged, there was a decrease in testosterone levels in the diabetics. Moreover, testosterone binding globulin (TeBG) capacity appeared to be augmented and, as a consequence, the apparent free testosterone concentration (AFTC) was markedly decreased. It is interesting to note that the anomalies in androgen secretion observed are rather similar to those found in elderly man and could play some role (with other factors) in the onset of the frequent sexual disturbances in male diabetics.