[Andrology in oncological diseases]

Abstract

In dermato-oncological treatment there are many gonadotoxic interventions. Alkylating and hormonally active substances as well as gonadal irradiation, in particular, are known to have a fertilization-limiting effect in men. Since 2017 certified skin cancer centers in Germany therefore have the task to implement counselling on preservation of fertility. This is supported by the S2k guidelines on preservation of fertility in oncological treatment. Because recommendation of the various interventions from the dermato-oncological guidelines are dependent on the stage, the authors advocate at least the question "Is the desire to have children of interest to you?" when patients reach the appropriate stage. Fertility protection of men via cryopreservation of ejaculates or testicular tissue is then a simple and safe option. The procedure is standardized and usually available. In addition, the possibility of cryopreservation of testicular tissue from prepubertal male children and infants is now available via the new Androprotect project. If signs of hypogonadism occur during therapy, a treatment can be considered by weighing up the effects of testosterone but in this case it is important to take the anabolic and immunomodulating effects into account.

Keywords: Cancer; Cryopreservation; Dermatology; Fertility; Oncology.