Transdermal androgen therapy to augment EPO in the treatment of anemia of chronic renal disease.

Background: Hypogonadism and anemia are common comorbid conditions in dialysis patients. Testosterone replacement may improve such clinical parameters as anemia, sarcopenia, and low libido. Additionally, by increasing hemoglobin levels, testosterone replacement may allow for a dose reduction in recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO), thereby reducing cost.