SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.2 infection associated with persistent hormonal changes and symptom resolution in young male students.
This prospective cohort study enrolled 71 young male university students following SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.2 infection. The comparator was a 3-month post-infection convalescent reference point, with follow-up extending to 24 months. The primary outcome assessed longitudinal changes in reproductive, thyroid, and adrenal hormones, while secondary outcomes included persistent symptoms.
The study observed that persistent symptoms decreased from 11.3% at 3 months to 4.3% at 24 months. Testosterone levels remained stable throughout the follow-up period, with all P values greater than 0.05. In contrast, prolactin declined progressively from 22.55 ng/mL to 14.73 ng/mL at 24 months. Estradiol decreased at all follow-up points (P < 0.0001), while FSH and TSH showed continuous, progressive increases (P < 0.001).
Thyroid hormones TT4 and FT4 exhibited biphasic fluctuations, and ACTH and cortisol generally declined after 6 months (P < 0.0001). No adverse events, serious adverse events, discontinuations, or specific tolerability data were reported. The study limitations include a small sample size, lack of a concurrent control group, and unreported p-values for several outcomes, which restricts the ability to draw definitive causal conclusions.
These results highlight potential hormonal sequelae following Omicron BA.2 infection in young males. However, the observational design and specific demographic focus mean these findings may not apply to other populations or infection variants. Clinicians should interpret these hormonal shifts cautiously until validated in larger, controlled studies.
View Original Abstract ↓
Tirzepatide MTD Demonstrates Cost-Effectiveness Versus Semaglutide MTD in Obesity Simulation Modeling Study
Tirzepatide Saves Money and Health Over Semaglutide
Related in Diabetes & Endocrinology
From Other Specialties
