Gender-affirming Hormonal Therapy Research Articles

MP54-17 FERTILITY PRESERVATION RATES AMONG TRANSGENDER GIRLS IN A MULTIDISCIPLINARY TRANSGENDER PROGRAM

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP54-17 FERTILITY PRESERVATION RATES AMONG TRANSGENDER GIRLS IN A MULTIDISCIPLINARY TRANSGENDER PROGRAM Nir Tomer, Eva Baldisserotto, Alexandra Siegal, Benjamin Eilender, Erin Miller, Mabel Yau, Matthew Oransky, Joshua Safer, and Neha Malhotra Nir TomerNir Tomer More articles by this author , Eva BaldisserottoEva Baldisserotto More articles by this author , Alexandra SiegalAlexandra Siegal More articles by this author , Benjamin EilenderBenjamin Eilender More articles by this author , Erin MillerErin Miller More articles by this author , Mabel YauMabel Yau More articles by this author , Matthew OranskyMatthew Oransky More articles by this author , Joshua SaferJoshua Safer More articles by this author , and Neha MalhotraNeha Malhotra More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003307.17AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Fertility preservation (FP) should be an important step in health care prior to initiating gender affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) or puberty blockade in transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people. However, FP is often not integrated into comprehensive gender affirming care. Prior studies show low rates of FP in transgender youth. The aim of this study was to understand how the integration of a pediatric urology team into our Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery program would impact the overall number of transgender girls who pursue fertility preservation. METHODS: To assess the success of fertility preservation, we performed a retrospective review of a database of all TGD patients who were 18 years or younger with testes, and sought GAHT. Patients were evaluated and followed in our Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery from 4/2022 through 10/2022. Demographics, age, hormonal treatment, Tanner stages, and FP use were recorded from the medical record. Successful sperm banking was defined as freezing >1 vial of sperm. RESULTS: Twenty seven patients ranging from ages 10-17 years old were referred to pediatric urology for FP. Of patients referred to the clinic, 20 (74.1%) were interested in pursuing/are in the process of sperm banking. Of the patients who didn’t pursue FP, 1 (3.7%) of the patients were prepubertal (Tanner I), 4 (14.8 %) patients declined to attempt FP because they wanted to avoid masturbation, and 2 (7.4%) patients declined referral altogether. Twelve patients began the process of FP with sperm banking - ten of whom successfully froze sperm within WHO reference ranges of semen parameters and 2 children were azoospermic. Upon review, these 2 patients with azoospermia were found to already have started hormonal suppression. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that a large percentage of patients may be interested in fertility preservation. The integration of a pediatric urology team can help to increase access to this service. Importantly, that the children who already started pubertal suppression were azoospermic highlights the importance of the integration of pediatric urology and FP into the health care process prior to pubertal suppression therapy. In our program, counseling on GAHT and puberty blockers’ impact on fertility is introduced early and pediatric urology consultation is offered concurrently or even prior to endocrinology consultation. Source of Funding: N/A © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e760 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Nir Tomer More articles by this author Eva Baldisserotto More articles by this author Alexandra Siegal More articles by this author Benjamin Eilender More articles by this author Erin Miller More articles by this author Mabel Yau More articles by this author Matthew Oransky More articles by this author Joshua Safer More articles by this author Neha Malhotra More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Gender-affirming hormonal therapy for transgender and gender-diverse people-A narrative review.

As the number of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people accessing gender-affirming care increases, the need for healthcare professionals (HCPs) providing gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) also increases. This chapter provides an overview of the HCPs interested in getting involved in providing GAHT.

Characteristics and gender affirming healthcare needs of transgender and non-binary students starting hormone therapy in a student health service in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Introduction Traditionally, gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) is initiated in secondary care, but a primary care based approach has been developed to reduce access barriers. Aim We aim to describe the demographics, hormone choices, and additional referrals made for young people initiating GAHT in a primary care setting in Aotearoa New Zealand. Methods Clinical notes were reviewed for all patients who commenced GAHT between 1 July 2020 to the end of 2022 at a tertiary education health service. Data were collected on age, ethnicity, gender, type of hormones prescribed, and any additional referrals. Results Eighty five patients commenced GAHT during the review period (64% assigned male at birth and starting oestrogen-based GAHT, 36% assigned female at birth and commencing testosterone-based GAHT). Fourty seven percent of patients identified as transgender female, 38% as non-binary, and 15% as transgender male. Spironolactone was the most common choice of testosterone blocker (81%). The choice of oestrogen formulation was fairly equal between patches (54%) and tablets (46%). Eighty percent of those assigned male at birth chose to preserve fertility, 54% requested voice therapy, and 87% of those assigned female at birth requested top surgery. Discussion There is a need for improved understanding of non-binary gender-affirmation needs, in particular those of Māori and Pasifika youth. An informed consent approach in primary care can reduce barriers and distress for transgender youth seeking GAHT. The high unmet need for top surgery for transgender people assigned female at birth requires attention.

Study of Effects of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Bone Mineral Density in Individuals with Gender Dysphoria.

Gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is the mainstay treatment in transitioning individuals and has positive physical and psychological effects. Among the things to monitor in transgender patients on long-term hormones, bone health is an essential consideration. As the calcium intake in the Indian population is less, and many gender-incongruent individuals may not take adequate calcium in their diet, we needed data on the bone health of Indians with gender dysphoria as the information available globally may not apply to our population. The study was performed to assess bone mineral density in individuals with gender dysphoria who were on gender-affirming hormonal therapy for at least 6 months. It was a hospital-based cross-sectional study of bone mineral density measured at two sites - hip and spine in individuals with gender dysphoria on GAHT for at least six months. A total of 30 individuals were included in this study. The mean age of individuals with Gender dysphoria was found to be 28.17 ± 6.15 years, and the age range was 19-42 years. Out of the 30 individuals, 14 were transgender males, and the remaining 16 were transgender females. Bone mineral density at the hip and spine in transgender males was 1.047 ± 0.124 g/cm2 and 1.065 ± 0.115 g/cm2, which was better compared to transgender females in whom the bone mineral density at hip and spine was 0.899 ± 0.873 g/cm2 and 0.854 ± 0.099 g/cm2 (P = 0.001 for hip; P = 0.000 for spine). The Z score at hip and spine were better in transgender males as compared to transgender females (P < 0.001 for hip; P < 0.001 for spine) when compared to genetic sex and at the spine (P = 0.001) when compared to affirmed sex. In this study, we observed that the transgender females who underwent orchidectomy had a lower mean Z score at spine compared to individuals who did not undergo the procedure. The current study results indicate that GAHT does have positive effects on bone health in transmen.

PS-BPC11-5: INCIDENCE OF CLINICAL HYPERTENSION IN YOUNG TRANSGENDER PEOPLE AFTER A FIVE-YEAR FOLLOW-UP: ASSOCIATION WITH GENDER-AFFIRMING HORMONAL THERAPY

Introduction and Objective: There is a paucity of data on the long-term cardiovascular side effects of hormonal therapy in transgender people. The most overlooked issue is the cardiovascular risk associated with the use of androgen blockers. While some short-term data on blood pressure effects of gender-affirming hormonal therapy are available, the risk of hypertension development is unknown. We sought to assess this risk in our transgender patients. Design and Methods: Retrospective analysis of the clinical records of consecutive transgender patients who began hormonal therapy in our Outpatient Gender Identity Clinic with &lt; 30 years of age and have a follow-up of at least 5 years. Patients who had office sitting BP &gt; 140/90 mmHg at least twice, had an ABPM or systematic HBPM register with &gt; 135/85 mmHg or were taking antihypertensive medication were diagnosed with hypertension. Mediation analyses with weight increase as mediator were performed post-hoc to quantify its relative contribution to the increase in blood pressure. Patients who were already living with hypertension at the onset of hormonal therapy, withdrew from it or switched androgen blockers were excluded. All subjects gave informed consent. Results: 129 transgender women treated with estradiol and 153 transgender men treated with testosterone were included. Their onset and 5-year follow-up age, blood pressure and body weight are shown in the Table (women are stratified by type of androgen blocker) along with the incidence of hypertension. The increase in body weight was strongly correlated with the SBP increase (Spearman's r: 0.361, p &lt; 0.001). Mediation analyses showed that 31.2% - 42.3% (95% CI) of the SBP increase was mediated by body weight increase but the rest was body weight-independent. Conclusions: The annual incidence of hypertension in young transgender men (1.17%) seems comparable to that of the general population, but in young transgender women the choice of androgen blocker has a remarkable effect on the incidence of hypertension, with apparent protective effect of spironolactone but a striking risk increase with cyproterone acetate (close to 5% yearly). Taken together with the known risks of this drug (meningioma, depression, low libido, liver toxicity, thrombosis…), the use of cyproterone acetate for this indication should be reconsidered. Body weight increase is undoubtedly related to the increase of BP transgender people on gender-affirming hormone therapy but is probably not the main factor.

Abstract 14489: Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction in a Transgender Woman: A Case Report and Perspective Into an Emerging High-Risk Population

Clinical Case: A 37-year-old transgender (TG) woman off gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) presented with substernal chest pain radiating to the left arm, worse with exertion and relieved with res. She was hypertensive and tachycardic on admission. Initial bloodwork revealed an elevated troponin I of 0.57 ng/mL, which peaked at 1.48 ng/mL. EKG on admission showed hyperacute T waves in the anterior leads without ST elevation (see Figure 1). She was diagnosed with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and taken for left heart catheterization (LHC). Decision-Making: TTE showed preserved LVEF and basal inferior, basal inferolateral, basal anterolateral and mid-anterolateral hypokinesis. LHC showed proximal-to-mid right coronary artery (RCA) occlusion. After failed aspiration thrombectomy indicating calcified plaque, two overlapping drug-eluting stents (DES) were successfully deployed with restoration of flow. She was discharged home on aspirin, ticagrelor, atorvastatin, and carvedilol. Discussion: Despite a recent push to increase awareness, research and healthcare equality specific to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) patients, a significant gap persists. Specifically, stress, inflammation, dyslipidemia, and thromboembolism predispose this understudied population to increased coronary artery disease (CAD) and myocardial infarction (MI). Accordingly, greater effort needs to be taken to mitigate preventable cardiac morbidity and mortality in this patient population. Conclusion: CAD in LGBTQ+ adults is well studied. However, there are few published studies on CAD specifically among TG men and women. National cross-sectional data highlights this disproportionate risk of CAD and MI among TG men and women relative to their cisgender female and male peers, a healthcare disparity recently emphasized by the AHA. Consequently, care must be taken to eliminate these aforementioned inequalities.

ODP148 GENDER AFFIRMING HORMONE THERAPY AND SPONTANEOUS CORONARY ARTERY DISSECTION

Abstract Introduction Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an important and underreported cause of acute coronary syndrome in women. SCAD has been linked to arteriopathy, pregnancy, as well as hormone replacement therapy in cisgender patients. There is a scarcity of data on the long-term cardiovascular effects of gender affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) with estrogen. Observational studies have shown increased thromboembolic disease and cardiovascular events in transwomen on estrogen, with oral synthetic or oral combined equine estrogens showing a higher association versus transdermal formulations, however there had been no reports of SCAD in transgender patients on GAHT. Clinical Case A 37-year old transwoman with a history of gender affirming orchiectomy on GAHT with sublingual estradiol 2 mg BID presented with typical symptoms of acute coronary syndrome. No prior history of chest pain. No personal history or family history of cardiovascular disease or risk factors. Initial Troponin I was 9.52 ng/dl (&amp;lt;0. 04 ng/dl), ECG with non-specific ST-changes. A transthoracic echocardiogram showed hypokinesis of the mid anterior and lateral wall. She underwent urgent cardiac catheterization, found to have SCAD of her ramus intermedius. Given the size of the lesion and wall motion abnormalities, a cutting balloon was used to inflate the lesion, and she remained chest pain free during the hospitalization. She was started on Aspirin, Clopidogrel, and Metoprolol. Sublingual estradiol was determined to be her only predisposing risk factor and therefore it was held during her hospitalization and during the lesion healing period, with plans to change to a constant transdermal estrogen patch in the primary care setting. Discussion This is the first case report showing an association of estrogen GAHT and SCAD in a transwoman. SCAD has been observed to occur more often in cisgender women during the late luteal phase and post-partum period, raising the hypothesis that estrogen level fluctuations could potentially play a role. Sublingual estradiol has been shown to have higher peak and trough serum concentration compared to oral estradiol. Research is needed in this area and on the potential adverse cardiovascular effects of GAHT and whether route of estrogen administration plays a role. We support transdermal estradiol in transwomen with or at risk of cardiovascular disease, and close monitoring of serum levels, as well as aggressive treatment of cardiovascular risk factors. Presentation: No date and time listed

Menstrual Suppression in Adolescent and Young Adult Transgender Males

ObjectiveTo describe time to cessation of menses in adolescent and young adult transgender males with testosterone and/or other hormonal therapies DesignRetrospective chart review SettingTertiary children's hospital ParticipantsPatients, aged 10-24, who began gender-affirming hormonal therapy between January 2013 and January 2019 (n = 220) Intervention(s)None Main Outcome Measure(s)Time to cessation of menses ResultsMost patients identified as transgender male or transmasculine (211/220, 95.9%), with an average age of 15.8 (±1.9) years. Approximately 53.6% (118/220) of patients reported regular menstrual cycles; 18.2% (40/220) reported irregular cycles. Median time to cessation of menses for all patients was 182 days. Patients treated with testosterone alone (n = 105) reported a median time to cessation of menses of 151 days. Patients who concurrently began testosterone and norethindrone acetate (NETA) (n = 5) had a median time to cessation of menses of 188 days, compared with 168 days for those on testosterone and depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA, n = 15). In 15 patients who began testosterone, a progestin therapy was later added to induce menstrual suppression, and the median time to cessation of menses was 168 days (+DMPA, n = 4) or 56 days (+NETA, n = 11). Patients treated with NETA (n = 14) or depot leuprolide (n = 11) reported a median time to cessation of menses of 78 days or 77 days, respectively. Considerable variability in prescribing patterns was noted in the remaining 36.4% of patients (n = 80). ConclusionPatients used a variety of different hormonal regimens for menstrual suppression. Less than half achieved cessation of menses within 6 months. NETA and depot leuprolide users reported the most rapid cessation of menses.

Incidence of hypertension in young transgender people after a 5-year follow-up: association with gender-affirming hormonal therapy.

In order to assess the risk of hypertension development, we performed a retrospective analysis of the clinical records of consecutive transgender patients who began gender-affirming hormonal therapy in our Outpatient Gender Identity Clinic with <30 years of age and had a follow-up >5 years. 149 transgender women treated with estradiol and 153 transgender men treated with testosterone were included; 129 of the transgender women received also androgen blockers (54 spironolactone, 49 cyproterone acetate and 26 LHRH agonists). The annual incidence of hypertension in young transgender men (1.18%) seemed comparable to that of the general population. In young transgender women, it seemed higher (2.14%); we found that the choice of androgen blocker had a remarkable effect, with a highly significant increase in patients treated with cyproterone acetate (4.90%) vs. the rest (0.80%); the adjusted hazard-ratio was 0.227 (p = 0.001). Correlation, logistic regression and mediation analyses were performed for the associations of the available clinical variables with the increase in systolic blood pressure and the onset of hypertension, but besides the use of cyproterone acetate, only the ponderal gain was found significant (Spearman's r: 0.361, p < 0.001); with a 36.7% mediation effect (31.2-42.3%). Cyproterone acetate has additional known risks, such as meningioma; although we cannot conclusively prove that it has a role in the development of hypertension, we conclude that the use of cyproterone acetate for this indication should be reconsidered.

Prostate Cancer in Male-to-Female Transgender Individuals: Histopathologic Findings and Association With Gender-affirming Hormonal Therapy.

Male-to-female (MtF) transgender individuals are at risk for prostate cancer, although guidelines for screening and management in this population are not well established. We describe a series of 9 MtF transgender patients who underwent prostate tissue sampling and highlight histopathologic features and challenges related to pathologic interpretation of prostate tissue in this patient population. Seven of 9 total patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer and all had elevated prostate-specific antigen at the time of diagnosis. Three of the 7 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer had received different types of hormone therapy for gender affirmation before the diagnosis of prostate cancer, and in all 3 of these patients, there was histologic evidence of hormone therapy effect in both benign prostate tissue and/or the adenocarcinoma. The 2 patients with benign prostate tissue underwent transurethral resection for lower urinary tract symptoms and were previously on hormone therapy for gender affirmation. Both of these specimens showed diffuse glandular atrophy and basal cell hyperplasia, indicative of hormone therapy effect on benign prostatic tissue. In the patients diagnosed with prostate cancer, a spectrum of grades was observed, ranging from Grade Group 1 to Grade Group 5. Four patients underwent radical prostatectomy, with 2 cases showing extraprostatic extension and Grade Group 5 prostatic adenocarcinoma, and 2 showing Grade Group 2 prostatic adenocarcinoma. Three of the 4 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy had received gender-affirming hormone therapy before surgery, and all 3 of these specimens showed hormone therapy effect in non-neoplastic prostate tissue and focal hormone therapy effect in prostatic adenocarcinoma. The presence of areas of viable carcinoma without hormone therapy effect enabled the assignment of a Gleason score and Grade Group in these 3 cases. Hormone therapy administered for gender identity affirmation induces histopathologic changes to both benign prostate tissue (nonkeratinizing squamous metaplasia, diffuse atrophy, basal cell hyperplasia, and stromal dominance with decreased numbers of glands) and prostatic adenocarcinoma (nuclear pyknosis, atrophy, cytoplasmic vacuolization, and architectural patterns that would qualify for Gleason 4 and 5 in the absence of hormone therapy effect) that have been traditionally seen in cis-male prostate cancer patients receiving hormone therapy. In the absence of hormone therapy, the morphology of prostatic adenocarcinoma in transgender patients shows classic morphologic features similar to those seen in cis-male patients not on hormone therapy. Prostate cancer with hormone therapy effect may not only be histologically quite subtle and may be overlooked if not suspected, but also should not be assigned a Gleason score because the Gleason score would substantially overstate its biologic potential. Therefore, similar to cis-male patients who have received androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer, transgender patients on hormone therapy for gender affirmation may be at risk for both underrecognition and over-grading of prostate cancer, particularly if the pathologist is not aware of the clinical history.

What Cardiothoracic Radiologists Should Know About Imaging in Transgender Patients.

Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals may undergo a wide range of care during gender transition including mental health counseling, gender-affirming hormonal therapy, and various surgeries. Hormone therapy effectively converts the hormonal milieu into that of the affirmed gender and produces measurable alterations in serum markers for coronary artery disease and other hematologic conditions (eg, erythrocytosis, venous thrombosis). Although illegal in the United States, some transgender women may receive silicone injections for breast and soft tissue augmentation, which can lead to devastating local complications, as well as silicone migration, pulmonary embolism, systemic reactions, and death. Smoking rates are higher among transgender and sexual minority populations, placing them at elevated risk of smoking-related diseases, including lung cancer. Some opportunistic infections may be more common in the TGD populations, attributable to higher rates of coexisting infection with human immunodeficiency virus. Radiologists should be aware that these patients may develop cancer of their natal organs (eg, breast, prostate), especially as some of these tissues are not completely removed during gender-affirming surgery, which may manifest with thoracic involvement by secondary neoplasia. As more TGD patients seek medical care, thoracic radiologists can reasonably expect to interpret imaging performed in this population and should be aware of possible disease processes and potential complications of hormonal and surgical therapies.

Navigating Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Primary Care Concerns Specific to the Transgender and Gender-Nonbinary Population.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention and treatment remain critically important to outpatient care among transgender and gender-nonbinary individuals. Epidemiologically, trans men and trans women are significantly more likely to have HIV compared with all adults of reproductive age. Here, we provide an overview of unique primary care considerations affecting transgender and gender-nonbinary individuals, including screening and treatment of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections as well as cancer screening and fertility preservation options. We also seek to review current literature and clinical practice guidelines related to drug–drug interactions between antiretroviral therapy (ART) and gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT). In short, integrase strand transfer inhibitor–based therapy is not expected to have significant drug interactions with most GAHT and is preferred in most transgender individuals, including those on GAHT. Clinicians should also remain aware of current GAHT regimens and consider tailoring ART and GAHT to reduce cardiovascular and other risk factors.

Potential immunological effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender people - an unexplored area of research.

There are well-described sex-based differences in how the immune system operates. In particular, cisgender (cis) females have a more easily activated immune system; associated with an increased prevalence of autoimmune diseases and adverse events following vaccinations. Conversely, cis males have a higher threshold for immune activation, and are more prone to certain infectious diseases, such as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Oestrogen and testosterone have immune-modulatory properties, and it is likely that these contribute to the sexual dimorphism of the immune system. There are also important immune-related genes located on the X chromosome, such as toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/8; and the mosaic bi-allelic expression of such genes may contribute to the state of immune hyperactivation in cis females. The scientific literature strongly suggests that sex-based differences in the functioning of the immune system are related to both X-linked genes and immune modulation by sex hormones. However, it is currently not clear how this impacts transgender (trans) people receiving gender-affirming hormonal therapy. Moreover, it is estimated that in Australia, at least 2.3% of adolescents identify as trans and/or gender diverse, and referrals to specialist gender-affirming care are increasing each year. Despite the improving social awareness of trans people, they remain chronically underrepresented in the scientific literature. In addition, a small number of case studies describe new onset autoimmune disorders in adult trans females following oestrogen use. However, there is currently minimal long-term research with an immunological focus on trans people. Therefore, to ensure the positive health outcomes of trans people, it is crucial that the role of sex hormones in immune modulation is investigated further.

Cardiovascular Disease Risk Among Transgender People with HIV.

Transgender individuals are at disproportionate risk for HIV infection, with prevalence rates highest among transgender women of color. Antiretroviral therapy (ART)-treated people with HIV (PWH) are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), in relation to persistent systemic immune activation and metabolic dysregulation. The purpose of this review is to examine parameters which may affect CVD risk among transgender PWH. Among transgender women and men, prospective longitudinal studies have shown that gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) is associated with select deleterious cardiometabolic effects such as increases in visceral adipose tissue. Retrospective studies among transgender women and men suggest an increase in CVD risk, such as venous thromboembolism, cerebrovascular accidents, and myocardial infarction. Studies among transgender PWH adhering to GAHT and ART suggest heightened systemic immune activation/inflammation. Prospective longitudinal studies assessing factors associated with increased CVD events among transgender PWH are needed to guide the development of CVD prevention strategies in this at-risk population.

A-11 The Neuropsychological Impact of Gender Affirming Treatments: A Systematic Review

Abstract Objective Currently, there is strong evidence to demonstrate neuroanatomical changes in transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) adults following gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GHT). However, there has been no systematic review of the literature pertaining to GHTs’ neuronal effects. Such a review would help develop consensus within neuropsychology regarding standards of assessment with TGNC individuals. Data Selection Studies were only included if they assessed neuropsychological or neuroanatomical brain structure changes or functioning following GHT in the TGNC population. Search terms such as “neuropsychology” and “transgender” were entered in Medline, PsychINFO, and ProQuest. The 24 qualifying studies’ methodological and outcome data were critically reviewed by both researchers to reduce bias. Data Synthesis Neuroanatomical changes within the subcortical structures are found in TGNC individuals who received GHT over a longer duration. Current guidelines and recommendations do not consider the age of transition, dosage, and duration of GHT when interpreting neurocognitive data of TGNC patients; thus, it can lead to validity issues when selecting appropriate norms and interpreting neurocognitive domains with expected sex differences (i.e., visual, verbal, motor). Conclusion The literature review results indicate a paucity of guidelines and analysis related to the ethical practice of neuropsychological evaluation for TGNC individuals. Moving forward, guidelines need to be developed surrounding the age of transition, dosage, and duration of GHT when interpreting brain-behavior relationships on neuropsychological assessments.

Endocrinological and ovarian histological investigations in assigned female at birth transgender people undergoing testosterone therapy

Research questionWhat are the hormonal and ovarian histological effects of a gender affirming hormonal therapy in assigned female at birth (AFAB) transgender people? DesignProspective observational study of 70 AFAB transgender people taking testosterone therapy before gender-affirming surgery (hystero-oophorectomy). A gynaecological ultrasonographic scan was undertaken and serum hormone concentrations measured, including anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and androgenic profile. Histological ovarian evaluation was assessed in both ovaries, including the developmental stages of the follicles. ResultsThe mean age of the population was 27.7+/–5.14 years. The main biochemical parameters were total testosterone levels 781.5 ± 325.9 ng/dl; AMH levels 3.2 ± 1.4 ng/ml; FSH and LH levels 4.9 ± 2.5 IU/l and 3.9 ± 2.9 IU/l, respectively; and oestradiol values 47.6 ± 13.7 pg/ml. Fifty-five AFAB underwent gynaecological ultrasound before surgery and antral follicles were found in 43 out of 47 ultrasounds (91.5%) (without the presence of a dominant follicle or corpus luteum). Histological follicles were mostly in the primordial stage (88.0) and 3.3% were atretic. The thickness of the tunica albuginea was widely heterogeneous (range 0.15–1.45 mm) and luteinization of the stromal cells was observed in 68.6% of the samples. A negative correlation between testosterone levels and total antral follicles was found (Rs= –0.306, P = 0.029). ConclusionsAFAB transgender people taking testosterone therapy show cortical follicle distribution in the range previously reported in fertile cisgender women of reproductive age. The follicular population may not be altered as a result of the gender-affirming hormonal therapy, although some cortical and stromal changes have been observed.

Characterisation of testicular function and spermatogenesis in transgender women.

Does gender-affirming treatment prevent full spermatogenesis in transgender women (TW)? Adequate hormonal therapy (HT) leads to complete suppression of spermatogenesis in most TW, if serum testosterone levels within female reference ranges are obtained. Gender-affirming treatment in transgender individuals may involve gender-affirming HT. The effects on spermatogenesis in TW remain unclear. In order to add information from a referral centre for transgender care, we wish to compare results of earlier studies with our population of TW who received a standard hormone treatment. This was a prospective cohort study part of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI), conducted between 15 February 2010 and 30 September 2015. There were 162 TW were included in the ENIGI study at the Ghent University Hospital in Belgium. Participants are included in ENIGI when they first start HT, and follow-up visits occur over the next 3 years. The study included 97 TW who initiated HT with cyproterone acetate (CPA) plus oestrogens and proceeded with gonadectomy at the Ghent University Hospital. Testicular tissue retrieved during gonadectomy was processed and stained for four different germ cell markers by the Biology of the Testis lab at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Subsequent immunohistochemical staining was performed for melanoma-associated antigen A4 (MAGE-A4, marker for spermatogonia and early spermatocytes), boule homologue, RNA-binding protein (BOLL, marker for secondary spermatocytes and round spermatids), cAMP-responsive element modulator (CREM, marker for round spermatids) and acrosin (marker for acrosome visualization). Serum levels of sex steroids were measured prior to surgery. Suppressed testosterone levels (<50 ng/dl) were found in 92% of the participants prior to surgery. The mean time between initiation of HT and surgery was 685 days. In 88% (85/97) of the sections, MAGE-A4 staining was positive. Further staining could not reveal complete spermatogenesis in any participant. Testicular function of the participants prior to initiation of HT was not assessed, although all participants presented with cisgender male serum testosterone values before initiation of HT. The current study only reports on people using CPA at a fixed dose and may therefore not be applicable to all TW. HT leads to complete suppression of spermatogenesis in most TW, if serum testosterone levels within female reference ranges are obtained. Serum testosterone levels are associated with the sperm maturation rate. It is important to discuss sperm preservation before the start of hormone therapy. If serum testosterone levels remain higher, spermatogenesis may still occur. D.V.S. is a post-doctoral fellow of the Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (FWO; 12M2819N). Processing of the testis specimens was funded by the Biology of The Testes (BITE) research group (Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative medicine at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)). There are no competing interests. N/A.

0598 Blurred Binaries: The Clinical Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Transgender Patients

Abstract Introduction Transgender patients require careful clinical assessment to identify the effects of hormones on their risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Testosterone increases sleep apnea risk and assigned males at birth may develop the condition earlier. Estrogen and progesterone are known to reduce sleep apnea risk. Depending on the use of supplemental hormones and surgical status, the risk of sleep apnea may be altered in a transgender patient. Comorbid conditions, including mood disorders and obesity, may further impact sleep. This topic has not been well-studied, and this pilot project identifies special needs that exist in transgender populations. Methods This retrospective chart review included 25 subjects who identify as transgender who have been managed at an urban sleep disorders center from 2017 to 2019. The case series was assessed to identify characteristics that impact the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (natural and supplemental hormonal effects, surgical effects, comorbid conditions, etc.). Results The average age of the cohort was 34 years (range 16 to 76). Fourteen subjects were assigned females at birth and identify as men and 11 subjects were assigned males at birth and identify as women. Preferred pronoun usage was concordant with gender identity in 21 subjects, discordant in 1 subject, and gender-neutral (they/them) was used by 3 subjects. Based on 24 subjects, the average BMI was 35.5 (range 23.5 to 53.1). The measured neck circumference was &amp;lt;16 inches in 9 subjects, &amp;gt;17 inches in 6 subjects,and a risk factor for sleep apnea based on birth-assigned sex but not gender identity in 4 subjects. Hormone therapy was used by 24 subjects to enhance their gender identities. When documented, 6 subjects had mastectomies and 2 also had total hysterectomies. Anxiety or depression had been diagnosed in 20 subjects. Testing revealed sleep apnea in 18 subjects. Loss to follow up affected 9 subjects. Conclusion Transgender patients deserve respectful evaluation and careful consideration regarding risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea that may be impacted by gender-affirming hormonal therapy or surgery, and weight gain. Higher rates of mood disorders and loss to follow up may put these patients at long-term risk. Support N/A

160. Thrombotic Risk and Occurrence of Thrombosis Among Transgender Adolescents and Young Adults Receiving Gender-Affirming Hormonal Therapy

160. Thrombotic Risk and Occurrence of Thrombosis Among Transgender Adolescents and Young Adults Receiving Gender-Affirming Hormonal Therapy

Glycemic Control During Gender-Affirming Therapy in a Patient With Type 1 Diabetes.

A 20-year-old transgender woman (natal male with feminine gender identity) with a 15-year history of type 1 diabetes presented to the clinic to begin gender-affirming hormone therapy. The patient was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 5 years. Around the time of diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, she experienced two episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis but has had no additional episodes since adolescence. At initial presentation to the endocrinology clinic, her A1C was 6.8% (51 mmol/mol) on therapy with insulin detemir 33 units each night and mealtime insulin lispro at a 1:8 insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio. At this time, she was experiencing approximately one episode of hypoglycemia per week. The patient reported gender dysphoria since the age of 15 or 16 years but had no prior gender-affirming hormonal therapy or surgery. She had a history of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt. The patient’s family history was unknown because she was raised in the foster care system. On social history, she had no history of tobacco use. She had a history of being abused by her biological father and foster parents. At the time of presentation, she had had two sexual partners and no history of sexually transmitted infections. Baseline laboratory test values before starting gender-affirming therapy included thyroid-stimulating hormone 3.301 units/mL, prolactin 7.0 ng/mL, estradiol <20 pg/mL (<73.4 pmol/L), and testosterone 473.9 ng/dL (16.4 nmol/L). Her total cholesterol was 145 mg/dL (3.75 mmol/L), triglycerides were 44 mg/dL (0.50 mmol/l), LDL cholesterol was 73 mg/dL (1.89 …