What is a common complication of testosterone toxicity in males?

Gonadal atrophy is a well-documented complication of testosterone toxicity in males. When exogenous testosterone is administered or excessive endogenous testosterone is produced, it can lead to a negative feedback mechanism affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Elevated testosterone levels can suppress the secretion of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary gland, which are crucial for stimulating the testes to produce sperm and maintain testicular size. As a result, reduced stimulation from these hormones leads to gonadal atrophy, which manifests as a decrease in testicular size and function.

This side effect is particularly significant in those abusing anabolic steroids or other testosterone formulations for performance enhancement. The body’s regulatory mechanisms prioritize maintaining hormonal balance, and when external testosterone is introduced, it disrupts this balance, resulting in several physiological changes, including gonadal shrinkage.

The other options do not align with the effects of testosterone toxicity. Increased fertility is unlikely since the reduction in gonadal function would impair spermatogenesis. Increased insulin sensitivity is not typically associated with testosterone toxicity; in fact, testosterone may influence metabolic effects differently. Decreased LDL levels do not correlate with testosterone toxicity, as excessive testosterone can actually lead to unfavorable changes in