The effects of testosterone on transgender males on carotid intima-media thickness and serum inflammatory markers compared within patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of testosterone on carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and serum inflammatory markers compared within transgender males (TGM-Former called female-to-male) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: The prospective observational study included 30 TGM, 30 patients with PCOS, and 30 healthy women. Groups were compared for CIMT and hematologic inflammatory markers white blood cell (WBC), lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and mean platelet volume (MPV). Results: The CIMT of the TGM group was 0.48 ± 0.09 mm was significantly higher than PCOS (0.41 ± 0.09 mm, p  = .005) and the control group (0.38 ± 0.7 mm, p  = .001). The mean NLR, LMR, and MPV values were similar ( p  > .05). TGM had higher WBC levels compared to control women ( p  = .029). TGM had significantly lower PLR compared to PCOS and the control group ( p  = .001). CIMT were related to age ( r  = .390, p  = .04) and body mass index (BMI) ( r  = .392, p  = .03) in TGM. Conclusion: Increased CIMT in TGM individuals is not associated with inflammation; it seems to be a deleterious effect of exogenous testosterone exposure. Since increased CIMT may be a sign of serious cardiovascular problems developing in the future, it is suggested that it will be beneficial for these individuals should undergo clinical and radiological evaluation at regular intervals.