Testosterone treatment for the aging man: the controversy.

The issues surrounding androgen replacement therapy in men with symptomatic late-onset hypogonadism has been marred in controversy even before the identification and synthesis of testosterone. The controversy has attained renewed importance because of the ever increasing aging population. Physicians attuned with the various diagnostic approaches, familiar with the advantages and drawbacks of testosterone preparations, and aware of the potential safety issues are well positioned to deal with the hypogonadal man at or beyond middle age. The urologist is in a unique position to assist patients and colleagues in other specialties, particularly in relation to prostate safety. This update focuses on the most prominent areas of controversy.