Introduction: Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) differentially bind to androgen receptors depending on each SARM’s chemical structure. As a result, SARMs result in anabolic cellular activity while avoiding many of the side effects of currently available anabolic steroids. SARMs have been studied in the treatment of breast cancer and cachexia and have also been used as performance enhancing agents. Here, we evaluate and summarize the current literature on SARMs. Aims: To present the background, mechanisms, current and potential clinical applications, as well as risks and benefits of SARMs. Methods: A literature review was performed in MEDLINE using the terms selective androgen receptor modulator, hypogonadism, cachexia, breast cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, libido and lean muscle mass. Both basic research and clinical studies were included. Results: While there are currently no FDA-approved indications for SARMs, investigators are exploring the potential uses for these compounds. Basic research has focused on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of these agents, demonstrating good availability with a paucity of drug interactions. Early clinical studies have demonstrated potential uses for SARMs in the treatment of cancer-related cachexia, benign prostatic hyperplasia, hypogonadism, and breast cancer, with positive results. Conclusion: SARMs have numerous possible clinical applications, with promise for the safe use in the treatment of cachexia, BPH, hypogonadism, breast cancer, and prostate cancer.

Background: The constellation of persistent sexual, neurological, and physical adverse effects in patients who discontinue 5α-reductase inhibitors (5ARIs) has garnered recent concern. The objective of this study was to evaluate potential penile vascular changes and persistent adverse effects of 5ARIs in men treated for androgenic alopecia (AGA).Methods: This was a prospective case-control study with 25 subjects with a history of 5ARI use for AGA and 28 controls. Patient self-reported questionnaires including the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and the Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) were used. Penile duplex Doppler ultrasound (PDDU) results were evaluated in men with a history of 5ARI use.Results: A significant difference in total IIEF score between the 5ARI (median: 35; IQR: 29-43) and control group (median: 29; IQR: 27-32) (P=0.035) was observed. Seventeen 5ARI subjects (68%) had a vascular abnormality on PDDU. The median (IQR) for total IPSS score for the 5ARI group was 10 [5-16] compared to 3 [2-8] for the controls (P<0.01). The 5ARI group had a higher median total PHQ-9 score than controls [10 (6.5-16) vs. 1 (0-2) (P<0.001)]. Two subjects (8%) committed suicide during or after the study.Conclusions: While the sexual side effects of 5ARIs are well known, there may be persistent genitourinary, physical, psycho-cognitive, anti-androgenic and penile vascular changes after 5ARI discontinuation. Use of 5ARIs for treatment of AGA may lead to persistent sexual, genitourinary, physical, psycho-cognitive, and anti-androgenic sequelae even after cessation of 5ARI therapy.

Purpose of the review: To review the most recent literature with regards to the pathogenesis, diagnostics, clinical implications and treatment strategies for Carcinoma in Situ (CIS) of the Bladder. Recent findings: There have been advancements in understanding the genetic composition and biochemical behavior of CIS. Technological advancements including Photodynamic Diagnosis (PDD) with Hexaminolevulinate (HVA) better detect CIS compared to traditional white light (WL) cystoscopy. Recently published single and multi-center studies have enabled better understanding of the impact of CIS on clinical and cancer related outcomes, including disease recurrence and patient survival. Alternative intravesical chemotherapeutic and immunotherapies for CIS have been investigated, especially in the setting of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) unresponsive disease. While these demonstrate a great deal of promise, they have not garnered much success. Summary: The genetics of CIS is linked to aggressive, and at times resistant disease, with increased cancer progression and associated clinically worse cancer specific outcomes. New technologies have enabled a more effective diagnosis of CIS. The development of a standardized definition for clinical trials and greater disease understanding will enable us to develop better treatment options.

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