Relationship between insulin and hypogonadism in men with metabolic syndrome.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the incidence of hypogonadism in men with metabolic syndrome and its correlation with serum insulin levels. METHODS Observational, transversal study with 80 men with metabolic syndrome. The individuals were divided into two groups: Group 1: 56 patients (70%) with total testosterone > 300 ng/dL (normal gonadal function); Group 2: 24 patients (30%) with total testosterone < 300 ng/dL (hypogonadic). RESULTS The subjects from Group 2 compared to Group 1 presented higher body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumferences, insulin, homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance index (Homa-IR) and beta cell (Homa-beta), and triglycerides, but lower SHBG and free testosterone values. Inverse correlations between insulin levels and total testosterone and SHBG, as well as between Homa-IR and total testosterone were observed. CONCLUSION In this series of men with metabolic syndrome, hypogonadism was associated with insulin resistance and may be a marker of metabolic abnormalities.