ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION IN MEN - A CLINICAL VIEW

Endothelial dysfunction is an early marker for the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Scientific studies in recent years have shown the necessity to study the endothelial function in different groups of patients in clinical practice. This article is focused on the possibilities and perspectives for clinical use of laboratory and instrumental methods for the study of endothelial function. One of the factors causing the development of vascular disease in men is testosterone deficiency. The review highlights the most important mechanisms of action of sex hormones on the vascular endothelium and its function in men. The data about the effects of hormone replacement therapy with testosterone on endothelial function in patients with late onset hypogonadism were critically analyzed.