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

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). 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). The CIMT of the TGM group was 0.48 ± 0.09 mm was significantly higher than PCOS (0.41 ± 0.09 mm,  = .005) and the control group (0.38 ± 0.7 mm,  = .001). The mean NLR, LMR, and MPV values were similar ( > .05). TGM had higher WBC levels compared to control women ( = .029). TGM had significantly lower PLR compared to PCOS and the control group ( = .001). CIMT were related to age ( = .390,  = .04) and body mass index (BMI) ( = .392,  = .03) in TGM. 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.