[Clinical aspects of partial androgen deficiency of aging male (PADAM)].

PADAM (partial androgen deficiency of aging male) is a biochemical syndrome associated with a deficiency in serum androgen levels. PADAM is characterized by diminished sexual function, decrease in spatial orientation ability, lean body mass and bone mineral density and increase in visceral fat. The measurement of serum total and/or free testosterone is acceptable to evaluate serum androgen levels. During androgen replacement treatment, several adverse effects including prostate safety, liver function, polycythemia and sleep apnea should be periodically monitored.