How does the testosterone panel change with OSA

How does the testosterone panel change with OSA? Does OSA treatment influence the panel?

The androgen changes of OSA are distinct from those seen with aging and obesity. In OSA, there are decreases in serum total and free testosterone and sex hormone–binding globulin levels without concomitant gonadotropin increases. In fact, one study showed LH pulse disturbances with untreated OSA. Interestingly, testosterone levels improve with OSA treatment, whether by CPAP or with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. These findings point to a hypothalamic mechanism for low testosterone levels in untreated OSA.

Androgen Changes in Common Circumstances.

CONDITION	SHBG	TOTAL TESTOSTERONE	FREE TESTOSTERONE
Aging	↑	↓	↓
Obesity	↓	↓	Normal
OSA	↓	↓	↓

OSA , Obstructive sleep apnea; SHBG , sex hormone–binding globulin.