Testosterone Gel Exposure: Swedish Baby's Condition Raises Safety Concerns
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is increasingly popular, with over 11 million prescriptions in the US in 2021. However, a recent case in Sweden has raised concerns about accidental exposure to testosterone gel, particularly for young children.
A baby girl in Sweden developed 'micropenis'-like features after lying on her father's bare chest, which had testosterone gel applied. The father's TRT, used to treat hypogonadism, caused the baby's genitalia to change due to skin-to-skin contact. The Mayo Clinic advises washing hands and rinsing the treated area after applying testosterone gel to avoid such accidental exposure. A Swedish doctor has seen at least six similar cases involving young children exposed to hormone medication through close contact with a parent. TRT can have side effects such as acne, fluid retention, testicular shrinkage, and reduced fertility. In this case, the baby's condition was reversed once the father stopped using the testosterone gel.
While TRT provides vital benefits for many, it is crucial to handle and apply these medications with care, especially around young children. Accidental exposure can lead to serious, though potentially reversible, effects.
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