Sample records for erectile dysfunction methods

  1. Psychogenic erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Bodie, Joshua A; Beeman, William W; Monga, Manoj

    2003-01-01

    To educate healthcare professionals on the historical aspects, clinical diagnosis, and current treatment methods of psychogenic erectile dysfunction. A topic review of current literature was performed. Chief sources included primarily mainstream journals in the fields of urology, psychiatry/psychology, impotence/erectile dysfunction, epidemiology, and internal medicine. MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases were utilized. Data from clinical studies, trials, and review articles concerned primarily with psychological aspects of the arousal (erectile function) phase of the male sexual response cycle were collected, analyzed, and summarized in this review article. There has been a shift in how erectile dysfunction has been perceived and treated over the past 30 years. With the current focus now on the very prevalent organic causes of ED, psychological factors are increasingly overlooked, though they remain important to the treatment of the patient as a whole. This article provides a complete, concise review of the interplay between psychological components and erectile function, reviews the work-up and diagnosis of psychogenic ED, and discusses treatment methods. Erectile dysfunction is a prevalent problem that can affect, and can be affected by, psychosocial aspects of a man's life. Medical or pharmacological interventions are often appropriate to treat ED, but the psychosocial aspects should not be ignored. It has become easier for practitioners to put aside patients' psychosocial and interpersonal concerns regarding sexual health. Clinicians provide the best possible treatment if they recognize that erectile dysfunction is a complex, multifactorial disorder, and treat accordingly.

  2. [Ultrasonic methods and semiotics in patients with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction].

    PubMed

    Zhukov, O B; Zubarev, A R

    2001-01-01

    The authors have developed criteria for ultrasonic assessment of cavernous bodies, arterial and venous circulation in normal penile vessels and in erectile dysfunction in 125 patients; describe modern ultrasound modalities in differential diagnosis of various forms of vasculogenic erectile dysfunction basing on the experience with 92 patients; validate hydrodynamic role of the tunica albuginea in pathogenesis of venocorporal dysfunction and pathological venous drainage. Early ischemic signs of arterial insufficiency were revealed.

  3. Sexual (dys)function after radiotherapy for prostate cancer: a review.

    PubMed

    Incrocci, Luca; Slob, A Koos; Levendag, Peter C

    2002-03-01

    Prostate cancer has become the most common nonskin malignant neoplasm in older men in Western countries. As treatment efficacy has improved, issues related to posttherapy quality of life and sexual functioning have become more important. We discuss the various methods used to evaluate erectile and sexual dysfunction and the definition of potency. The etiologies of erectile dysfunction after external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy for prostate cancer are also reviewed. The literature is summarized, and comparative studies of radiation and surgery are surveyed briefly. Rates of erectile dysfunction vary from 6 to 84% after external beam radiotherapy and from 0 to 51% after brachytherapy. In most of the studies, the analysis is retrospective, the definition of erectile dysfunction is not clear, only one question about sexual functioning is asked, and nonvalidated instruments are used. The etiology of erectile dysfunction after radiation for prostate cancer is not completely understood. Because erectile function is only one component of sexual function, it is necessary to assess sexual desire, satisfaction, frequency of intercourse, and other such factors when evaluating the effects of therapy. Patients should be offered sexual counseling and informed about the availability of effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as sildenafil, intracavernosal injection, and vacuum devices.

  4. Erectile dysfunction--an observable marker of diabetes mellitus? A large national epidemiological study.

    PubMed

    Sun, Peter; Cameron, Ann; Seftel, Allen; Shabsigh, Ridwan; Niederberger, Craig; Guay, Andre

    2006-09-01

    We examined whether men with erectile dysfunction are more likely to have diabetes mellitus than men without erectile dysfunction, and whether erectile dysfunction can be used as an observable early marker of diabetes mellitus. Using a nationally representative managed care claims database from 51 health plans and 28 million members in the United States, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to compare the prevalence rates of diabetes mellitus between men with erectile dysfunction (285,436) and men without erectile dysfunction (1,584,230) during 1995 to 2001. Logistic regression models were used to isolate the effect of erectile dysfunction on the likelihood of having diabetes mellitus with adjustment for age, region and 7 concurrent diseases. The diabetes mellitus prevalence rates were 20.0% in men with erectile dysfunction and 7.5% in men without erectile dysfunction. With adjustment for age, region and concurrent diseases, the odds ratio of having diabetes mellitus between men with erectile dysfunction and without erectile dysfunction was 1.60 (p <0.0001). With adjustment for regions and concurrent diseases, the age specific odds ratios ranged from 2.94 (p <0.0001, age 26 to 35) to 1.05 (p = 0.1717, age 76 to 85). Men with erectile dysfunction were more than twice as likely to have diabetes mellitus as men without erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is an observable marker of diabetes mellitus, strongly so for men 45 years old or younger and likely for men 46 to 65 years old, but it is not a marker for men older than 66 years.

  5. Erectile dysfunction in patients with cardiovascular disease

    PubMed Central

    Ophuis, A.J.M. Oude; Nijeholt, A.A.B. Lycklama à

    2006-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction is a highly prevalent disease, especially in cardiovascular-compromised men. Many of the well-established risk factors for cardiovascular disease are also risk factors for erectile dysfunction. A correlation between erectile dysfunction and endothelial dysfunction is well established. It is postulated that erectile dysfunction with an arteriovascular aetiology can predate and be an indicator of potential coronary artery disease. In this paper we will attempt to increase awareness among cardiologists for the predictive value of erectile dysfunction for future cardiovascular disease in order to optimise cardiovascular risk management. The treatment of erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular interactions is also discussed in detail. ImagesFigure 1AFigure 1B PMID:25696612

  6. All men with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction require a cardiovascular workup.

    PubMed

    Miner, Martin; Nehra, Ajay; Jackson, Graham; Bhasin, Shalender; Billups, Kevin; Burnett, Arthur L; Buvat, Jacques; Carson, Culley; Cunningham, Glenn; Ganz, Peter; Goldstein, Irwin; Guay, Andre; Hackett, Geoff; Kloner, Robert A; Kostis, John B; LaFlamme, K Elizabeth; Montorsi, Piero; Ramsey, Melinda; Rosen, Raymond; Sadovsky, Richard; Seftel, Allen; Shabsigh, Ridwan; Vlachopoulos, Charalambos; Wu, Frederick

    2014-03-01

    An association between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease has long been recognized, and studies suggest that erectile dysfunction is an independent marker of cardiovascular disease risk. Therefore, assessment and management of erectile dysfunction may help identify and reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events, particularly in younger men. The initial erectile dysfunction evaluation should distinguish between predominantly vasculogenic erectile dysfunction and erectile dysfunction of other etiologies. For men believed to have predominantly vasculogenic erectile dysfunction, we recommend that initial cardiovascular risk stratification be based on the Framingham Risk Score. Management of men with erectile dysfunction who are at low risk for cardiovascular disease should focus on risk-factor control; men at high risk, including those with cardiovascular symptoms, should be referred to a cardiologist. Intermediate-risk men should undergo noninvasive evaluation for subclinical atherosclerosis. A growing body of evidence supports the use of emerging prognostic markers to further understand cardiovascular risk in men with erectile dysfunction, but few markers have been prospectively evaluated in this population. In conclusion, we support cardiovascular risk stratification and risk-factor management in all men with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Erectile dysfunction and coronary atherothrombosis in diabetic patients: pathophysiology, clinical features and treatment.

    PubMed

    Gazzaruso, Carmine

    2006-03-01

    The current review reports recent data available in the literature on the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and the association of erectile dysfunction with overt and silent coronary artery disease in patients with diabetes mellitus. The mechanisms by which erectile dysfunction is associated with coronary artery disease and potential clinical implications of this association have been extensively analysed. In particular, the role of endothelial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction and the potential clinical usefulness of erectile dysfunction to identify diabetic patients with silent coronary artery disease have been outlined. Finally, recent guidelines on the treatment of erectile dysfunction with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors in diabetic patients with and without coronary artery disease have been reported and discussed.

  8. Quantitative somatosensory testing of the penis: optimizing the clinical neurological examination.

    PubMed

    Bleustein, Clifford B; Eckholdt, Haftan; Arezzo, Joseph C; Melman, Arnold

    2003-06-01

    Quantitative somatosensory testing, including vibration, pressure, spatial perception and thermal thresholds of the penis, has demonstrated neuropathy in patients with a history of erectile dysfunction of all etiologies. We evaluated which measurement of neurological function of the penis was best at predicting erectile dysfunction and examined the impact of location on the penis for quantitative somatosensory testing measurements. A total of 107 patients were evaluated. All patients were required to complete the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire, of whom 24 had no complaints of erectile dysfunction and scored within the "normal" range on the IIEF. Patients were subsequently tested on ventral middle penile shaft, proximal dorsal midline penile shaft and glans penis (with foreskin retracted) for vibration, pressure, spatial perception, and warm and cold thermal thresholds. Mixed models repeated measures analysis of variance controlling for age, diabetes and hypertension revealed that method of measurement (quantitative somatosensory testing) was predictive of IIEF score (F = 209, df = 4,1315, p <0.001), while site of measurement on the penis was not. To determine the best method of measurement, we used hierarchical regression, which revealed that warm temperature was the best predictor of erectile dysfunction with pseudo R(2) = 0.19, p <0.0007. There was no significant improvement in predicting erectile dysfunction when another test was added. Using 37C and greater as the warm thermal threshold yielded a sensitivity of 88.5%, specificity 70.0% and positive predictive value 85.5%. Quantitative somatosensory testing using warm thermal threshold measurements taken at the glans penis can be used alone to assess the neurological status of the penis. Warm thermal thresholds alone offer a quick, noninvasive accurate method of evaluating penile neuropathy in an office setting.

  9. Stem Cell Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Matz, Ethan L; Terlecki, Ryan; Zhang, Yuanyuan; Jackson, John; Atala, Anthony

    2018-04-06

    The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) is substantial and continues to rise. Current therapeutics for ED consist of oral medications, intracavernosal injections, vacuum erection devices, and penile implants. While such options may manage the disease state, none of these modalities, however, restore function. Stem cell therapy has been evaluated for erectile restoration in animal models. These cells have been derived from multiple tissues, have varied potential, and may function via local engraftment or paracrine signaling. Bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSC) and adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) have both been used in these models with noteworthy effects. Herein, we will review the pathophysiology of ED, animal models, current and novel stem-cell based therapeutics, clinical trials and areas for future research. The relevant literature and contemporary data using keywords, "stem cells and erectile dysfunction" was reviewed. Examination of evidence supporting the association between erectile dysfunction and adipose derived stem cells, bone marrow derived stem cells, placental stem cells, urine stem cells and stem cell therapy respectively. Placental-derived stem cells and urine-derived stem cells possess many similar properties as BMSC and ASC, but the methods of acquisition are favorable. Human clinical trials have already demonstrated successful use of stem cells for improvement of erectile function. The future of stem cell research is constantly being evaluated, although, the evidence suggests a place for stem cells in erectile dysfunction therapeutics. Matz EL, Terlecki R, Zhang Y, et al. Stem Cell Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2018;XX:XXX-XXX. Copyright © 2018 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Erectile Dysfunction and Undiagnosed Diabetes, Hypertension, and Hypercholesterolemia.

    PubMed

    Skeldon, Sean C; Detsky, Allan S; Goldenberg, S Larry; Law, Michael R

    2015-01-01

    We investigated whether erectile dysfunction, a marker for future cardiovascular disease, is associated with undiagnosed cardiometabolic risk factors among US men. Identifying the presence of these risk factors could lead to earlier initiation of treatment for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. We analyzed cross-sectional data from men aged 20 years and older who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey during 2001-2004. Erectile dysfunction was determined by a single, validated survey question. We used logistic regression analyses to investigate the relationship between erectile dysfunction and undiagnosed hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes. After multivariate adjustment, men with erectile dysfunction had more than double the odds of having undiagnosed diabetes (odds ratio = 2.20; 95% CI, 1.10-4.37), whereas no association was seen for undiagnosed hypertension or undiagnosed hypercholesterolemia. For the average man aged 40 to 59 years, the predicted probability of having undiagnosed diabetes increased from 1 in 50 in the absence of erectile dysfunction to 1 in 10 in the presence of erectile dysfunction. Our results underscore the importance of erectile dysfunction as a marker of undiagnosed diabetes. Erectile dysfunction should be a trigger to initiate diabetes screening, particularly among middle-aged men. © 2015 Annals of Family Medicine, Inc.

  11. [Erectile dysfunction and diabetes in Conakry (Guinea): frequency and clinical characteristics from 187 diabetic patients].

    PubMed

    Baldé, N M; Diallo, A B; Baldé, M C; Kaké, A; Diallo, M M; Diallo, M B; Maugendre, D

    2006-09-01

    Sexual dysfunction is frequent in the diabetic population. In Africa, medical care for erectile dysfunction is underprovided, profoundly altering the quality of life of the patients. We report the prevalence of erectile dysfunction in 187 diabetic patients followed in the department of Endocrinology of the Conakry teaching hospital. Prevalence was estimated from the French version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Erectile dysfunction concerned 90 patients (48%) of whom a severe form was observed in 54%, a moderate form in 35% and a mild form in 12%. The patients who presented erectile dysfunction were significantly older, displayed longer duration of diabetes with more complications (sensorial neuropathy and macroangiopathy) and often took drugs for associated cardiovascular diseases. In 28% of the cases, erectile dysfunction was associated with a decline in libido and in 26% with ejaculation disorders. In conclusion, erectile dysfunction is frequent and severe among diabetic patients in Guinea. The medical staff plays an essential role to initiate early diagnosis, promote psychological support and provide medication, if possible.

  12. History of erectile dysfunction as a predictor of poor physical performance after an acute myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Compostella, Leonida; Compostella, Caterina; Truong, Li Van Stella; Russo, Nicola; Setzu, Tiziana; Iliceto, Sabino; Bellotto, Fabio

    2017-03-01

    Background Erectile dysfunction may predict future cardiovascular events and indicate the severity of coronary artery disease in middle-aged men. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether erectile dysfunction (expression of generalized macro- and micro-vascular pathology) could predict reduced effort tolerance in patients after an acute myocardial infarction. Patients and methods One hundred and thirty-nine male patients (60 ± 12 years old), admitted to intensive cardiac rehabilitation 13 days after a complicated acute myocardial infarction, were evaluated for history of erectile dysfunction using the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire. Their physical performance was assessed by means of two six-minute walk tests (performed two weeks apart) and by a symptom limited cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). Results Patients with erectile dysfunction (57% of cases) demonstrated poorer physical performance, significantly correlated to the degree of erectile dysfunction. After cardiac rehabilitation, they walked shorter distances at the final six-minute walk test (490 ± 119 vs. 564 ± 94 m; p < 0.001); at CPET they sustained lower workload (79 ± 28 vs. 109 ± 34 W; p < 0.001) and reached lower oxygen uptake at peak effort (18 ± 5 vs. 21 ± 5 ml/kg per min; p = 0.003) and at anaerobic threshold (13 ± 3 vs.16 ± 4 ml/kg per min; p = 0.001). The positive predictive value of presence of erectile dysfunction was 0.71 for low peak oxygen uptake (<20 ml/kg per min) and 0.69 for reduced effort capacity (W-max <100 W). Conclusions As indicators of generalized underlying vascular pathology, presence and degree of erectile dysfunction may predict the severity of deterioration of effort tolerance in post-acute myocardial infarction patients. In the attempt to reduce the possibly associated long-term risk, an optimization of type, intensity and duration of cardiac rehabilitation should be considered.

  13. [Evaluation of sexuality and erectile function of candidates for radical prostatectomy].

    PubMed

    Long, Jean-Alexandre; Lebret, Thierry; Saporta, François; Hervé, Jean-Marie; Lugagne, Pierre-Marie; Poulain, Jean-Eudes; Yonneau, Laurent; Loison, Guillaume; Orsoni, Jean-Luc; Botto, Henry

    2006-09-01

    To evaluate sexuality and erectile function of candidates for radical prostatectomy in order to assess the place of nerve-sparing surgery in the preoperative discussion. From June 2004 to January 2005, 75 consecutive patients, candidates for radical prostatectomy, were prospectively evaluated. Their erectile function and sexuality were evaluated after announcing the diagnosis. Patients completed the IIEF (International Index of Erectile Function), EQS (Erection Quality Scale) and the sexual satisfaction score (SSS). The mean age of the patients was 65 years and 50% were younger than 65. Erectile dysfunction according to the IIEF-5 scale was observed in 64% of cases (43% of patients younger than 65 and 84% of patients over 65). Erectile dysfunction was considered to be severe in 5% of young patients versus 34% of patients over 65. The majority of patients (69%) had a sexual activity more than twice a month. Only 31% of patients under 65 and 8% of older patients considered their erections to be very satisfactory according to the EQS. Despite this high frequency of erectile dysfunction in men over the age of 65, sexual satisfaction was not influenced by erectile dysfunction. In contrast, patients younger than 65, erectile dysfunction clearly altered the SST sexual satisfaction score. Erectile dysfunction was present in a large proportion of candidates for radical prostatectomy. The presence of erectile dysfunction in patients over the age of 65 did not modify their sexual satisfaction score. A detailed clinical interview concerning sexuality should be conducted to select patients likely to benefit from nerve-sparing surgery. Nerve-sparing surgery would be beneficial in young patients in whom sexual satisfaction is dependent on erectile function. In the older men, erectile dysfunction can be present without affecting sexual satisfaction.

  14. A Holistic Treatment Approach to Male Erectile Disorder.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Millner, Vaughn S.; Ullery, Elizabeth K.

    2002-01-01

    This article offers information about erectile functioning, provides a DSM-IV-TR interpretation of erectile dysfunction, and discusses a biophysical approach to erectile dysfunction treatment. (Contains 36 references.) (GCP)

  15. Erectile dysfunction, metabolic syndrome and arterial disease. Clinical-pathological relation by carotid ultrasonography.

    PubMed

    Arrabal-Polo, M A; Vera-Arroyo, B; Lahoz-García, C; Valderrama-Illana, P; Cámara-Ortega, M; Arrabal-Martín, M; Zuluaga-Gomez, A; Lopez-Carmona Pintado, F

    2014-04-01

    Different studies have shown the relationship between erectile dysfunction, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of arteriopathy performing carotid ultrasound in patients with and without erectile dysfunction. We conducted a case-control study with 44 patients consulting for erectile dysfunction and 20 controls. All subjects completed the IIEF-5 test and we studied the criteria for metabolic syndrome, and a carotid ultrasound to study the intima-media thickness and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques was performed. Mean intima-media thickness was .71mm±.21 for the right and of .71±.17 for the left carotid in patients with erectile dysfunction. In the control group, the means were .54±0.11 and 0.59±0.15mm respectively, statistically significant differences (P=.02 and P=.05 respectively). No plaque was found in any control, but in 25% of both carotid arteries of patients with erectile dysfunction (P=.01). As metabolic syndrome, according to the American Heart Association, were diagnosed 52.8% of patients with erectile dysfunction, and 16.7% of controls, and according to the International Diabetes Federation, 52.3% of patients with erectile dysfunction and 25% of controls met diagnostic criteria. In both cases there were significant differences (P<.01 and P=.02 respectively). We found a positive linear correlation between waist circumference and the intima-media thickness in both carotid (P<.05). Patients with erectile dysfunction may be at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as determined by the presence of arterial disease in the carotid arteries, which indicates that we should made a more thorough and comprehensive study of patients with erectile dysfunction. Copyright © 2013 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  16. SU-D-204-06: Integration of Machine Learning and Bioinformatics Methods to Analyze Genome-Wide Association Study Data for Rectal Bleeding and Erectile Dysfunction Following Radiotherapy in Prostate Cancer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Oh, J; Deasy, J; Kerns, S

    Purpose: We investigated whether integration of machine learning and bioinformatics techniques on genome-wide association study (GWAS) data can improve the performance of predictive models in predicting the risk of developing radiation-induced late rectal bleeding and erectile dysfunction in prostate cancer patients. Methods: We analyzed a GWAS dataset generated from 385 prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy. Using genotype information from these patients, we designed a machine learning-based predictive model of late radiation-induced toxicities: rectal bleeding and erectile dysfunction. The model building process was performed using 2/3 of samples (training) and the predictive model was tested with 1/3 of samples (validation).more » To identify important single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we computed the SNP importance score, resulting from our random forest regression model. We performed gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis for nearby genes of the important SNPs. Results: After univariate analysis on the training dataset, we filtered out many SNPs with p>0.001, resulting in 749 and 367 SNPs that were used in the model building process for rectal bleeding and erectile dysfunction, respectively. On the validation dataset, our random forest regression model achieved the area under the curve (AUC)=0.70 and 0.62 for rectal bleeding and erectile dysfunction, respectively. We performed GO enrichment analysis for the top 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% SNPs out of the select SNPs in the univariate analysis. When we used the top 50% SNPs, more plausible biological processes were obtained for both toxicities. An additional test with the top 50% SNPs improved predictive power with AUC=0.71 and 0.65 for rectal bleeding and erectile dysfunction. A better performance was achieved with AUC=0.67 when age and androgen deprivation therapy were added to the model for erectile dysfunction. Conclusion: Our approach that combines machine learning and bioinformatics techniques enabled designing better models and identifying more plausible biological processes associated with the outcomes.« less

  17. Impact of erectile dysfunction and its subsequent treatment with sildenafil: qualitative study.

    PubMed

    Tomlinson, John; Wright, David

    2004-05-01

    To determine the effects of erectile dysfunction and to explore the impact of treatment with sildenafil (Viagra). An exploratory qualitative study with semistructured interviews. Men's health clinic in NHS hospital. 40 men who had had erectile dysfunction and had attended the clinic during the year before interview. Impact of erectile dysfunction on men, their expectations of sildenafil, and impact of treatment on men and their relationships. Issues explored with exploratory qualitative approach. Erectile dysfunction caused serious distress to all those men who experienced it, with marked effects on their self esteem and their relationships. Sildenafil, when it worked, caused a great improvement in wellbeing. The expectations raised by media hyperbole with the launch of sildenafil had an adverse effect on the morale of those who found it did not work. When, according to the patient, treatment did not work, the distress was severe and for many confirmed their lack of self worth. Further study is needed to explore the feelings of men affected by erectile dysfunction and their perception of treatment. Health professionals should be aware of the extreme distress erectile dysfunction can cause.

  18. hSMR3A as a Marker for Patients With Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Tong, Yuehong; Tar, Moses; Monrose, Val; DiSanto, Michael; Melman, Arnold; Davies, Kelvin P.

    2007-01-01

    Purpose We recently reported that Vcsa1 is one of the most down-regulated genes in the corpora of rats in 3 distinct models of erectile dysfunction. Since gene transfer of plasmids expressing Vcsa1 or intracorporeal injection of its mature peptide product sialorphin into the corpora of aging rats was shown to restore erectile function, we proposed that the Vcsa1 gene has a direct role in erectile function. To determine if similar changes in gene expression occur in the corpora of human subjects with erectile dysfunction we identified a human homologue of Vcsa1 (hSMR3A) and determined the level of expression of hSMR3A in patients. Materials and Methods hSMR3A was identified as a homologue of Vcsa1 by searching protein databases for proteins with similarity. hSMR3A cDNA was generated and subcloned into the plasmid pVAX to generate pVAX-hSMR3A. pVAX-hSMR3A (25 or 100 μg) was intracorporeally injected into aging rats. The effect on erectile physiology was compared histologically and by measuring intracorporeal pressure/blood pressure with controls treated with the empty plasmid pVAX. Total RNA was extracted from human corporeal tissue obtained from patients undergoing previously scheduled penile surgery. Patients were grouped according to normal erectile function (3), erectile dysfunction and diabetes (5) and patients without diabetes but with erectile dysfunction (5). Quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the hSMR3A expression level. Results Intracorporeal injection of 25 μg pVAX-hSMR3A was able to significantly increase the intracorporeal pressure-to-blood pressure ratio in aging rats compared to age matched controls. Higher amounts (100 μg) of gene transfer of the plasmid caused less of an improvement in the intracorporeal pressure-to-blood pressure ratio compared to controls, although there was histological and visual evidence that the animals were post-priapitic. These physiological effects were similar to previously reported effects of intracorporeal injection of pVAX-Vcsa1 into the corpora of aging rats, establishing hSMR3A as a functional homologue of Vcsa1. More than 10-fold down-regulation in hSMR3A transcript expression was observed in the corpora of patients with vs without erectile dysfunction. In patients with diabetes associated and nondiabetes associated erectile dysfunction hSMR3A expression was found to be down-regulated. Conclusions These results suggest that hSMR3A can act as a marker for erectile dysfunction associated with diabetic and nondiabetic etiologies. Given that our previous studies demonstrated that gene transfer of the Vcsa1 gene and intracorporeal injection of its protein product in rats can restore erectile function, these results suggest that therapies that increase the hSMR3A gene and product expression could potentially have a positive impact on erectile function. PMID:17512016

  19. Using Statistics and Data Mining Approaches to Analyze Male Sexual Behaviors and Use of Erectile Dysfunction Drugs Based on Large Questionnaire Data.

    PubMed

    Qiao, Zhi; Li, Xiang; Liu, Haifeng; Zhang, Lei; Cao, Junyang; Xie, Guotong; Qin, Nan; Jiang, Hui; Lin, Haocheng

    2017-01-01

    The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) has been extensively studied worldwide. Erectile dysfunction drugs has shown great efficacy in preventing male erectile dysfunction. In order to help doctors know drug taken preference of patients and better prescribe, it is crucial to analyze who actually take erectile dysfunction drugs and the relation between sexual behaviors and drug use. Existing clinical studies usually used descriptive statistics and regression analysis based on small volume of data. In this paper, based on big volume of data (48,630 questionnaires), we use data mining approaches besides statistics and regression analysis to comprehensively analyze the relation between male sexual behaviors and use of erectile dysfunction drugs for unravelling the characteristic of patients who take erectile dysfunction drugs. We firstly analyze the impact of multiple sexual behavior factors on whether to use the erectile dysfunction drugs. Then, we explore to mine the Decision Rules for Stratification to discover patients who are more likely to take drugs. Based on the decision rules, the patients can be partitioned into four potential groups for use of erectile dysfunction: high potential group, intermediate potential-1 group, intermediate potential-2 group and low potential group. Experimental results show 1) the sexual behavior factors, erectile hardness and time length to prepare (how long to prepares for sexual behaviors ahead of time), have bigger impacts both in correlation analysis and potential drug taking patients discovering; 2) odds ratio between patients identified as low potential and high potential was 6.098 (95% confidence interval, 5.159-7.209) with statistically significant differences in taking drug potential detected between all potential groups.

  20. Advances in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: what’s new and upcoming?

    PubMed Central

    Patel, Chintan K.; Bennett, Nelson

    2016-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction adversely affects up to 20% of all men and is the most commonly treated sexual disorder. The public health implications of this condition are significant and represent a challenge for our healthcare system. The physiological pathways responsible for erections have been extensively studied, and much advancement has been made since the introduction of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors. Newer agents, such as dopaminergic and melanocortin receptor agonists, which target central erectogenic pathways, are under investigation. Newer formulations and delivery methods of existing medications such as alprostadil will also be introduced in the near future. Furthermore, low-intensity shockwave lithotripsy and stem cell regenerative techniques are innovative approaches to the treatment of erectile dysfunction. PMID:27516878

  1. Erectile dysfunction in the elderly: epidemiology, etiology and approaches to treatment.

    PubMed

    Seftel, Allen D

    2003-06-01

    Erectile dysfunction is experienced at least some of the time by most men who have reached 45 years of age, and it is projected to affect 322 million men worldwide by 2025. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction is high in men of all ages and increases greatly in the elderly. This paper reviews the epidemiology of erectile dysfunction with an emphasis on the experience of older men, normal age related changes in the structure and function of the penis that may contribute to increased risk with age, how the accumulation of risk factors with age may contribute to the high prevalence of the disease in older men, and established and emerging therapies. The normal aging process and age related risk factor accumulation contribute to the increased prevalence of erectile dysfunction in the elderly. Remarkable progress has been made in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. At present inhibition of phosphodiesterase 5 with oral agents such as sildenafil would appear to be the initial treatment of choice. These drugs have been shown to be safe and effective, and sildenafil has demonstrated efficacy in patients with many of the comorbidities observed in older men with erectile dysfunction. New treatments, in particular transfection with genes for key mediators of erectile function that are known to be down-regulated in elderly men, also hold promise. Further research into the neural, vascular and molecular mechanisms involved in penile erection will lead to the development of even safer, more effective and more convenient therapies for men with erectile dysfunction.

  2. A case of erectile dysfunction and risk factors for coronary artery disease.

    PubMed

    Kloner, R A

    2005-12-01

    The hypothetical case of a man with erectile dysfunction and multiple cardiovascular risk factors is presented to illustrate the use of the second Princeton Consensus Conference Guidelines. Methods to optimize efficacy of the phosphodiesterase inhibitors are described. The overall cardiovascular safety of the phosphodiesterase inhibitors and their interaction with organic nitrates and alpha blockers are discussed.

  3. Efficacies of Papaverine and Sildenafil in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in Early-Stage Paraplegic Men

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yildiz, Necmettin; Gokkaya, Nilufer Kutay Ordu; Koseoglu, Fusun; Gokkaya, Serkan; Comert, Didem

    2011-01-01

    The aim of the study was to determine which vasoactive agent was more efficacious for erectile dysfunction (ED), intracavernosal papaverine or oral sildenafil, in paraplegic men within the first year after injury by using a penile color Doppler ultrasound as a quantitative imaging method and to determine the association between responses to these…

  4. Direct effects of tadalafil on lower urinary tract symptoms versus indirect effects mediated through erectile dysfunction symptom improvement: integrated data analyses from 4 placebo controlled clinical studies.

    PubMed

    Brock, Gerald B; McVary, Kevin T; Roehrborn, Claus G; Watts, Steven; Ni, Xiao; Viktrup, Lars; Wong, David G; Donatucci, Craig

    2014-02-01

    Tadalafil has regulatory approval for the treatment of men with signs/symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia with and without erectile dysfunction. We assessed whether the effects of treatment with tadalafil for lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia are independent of improvements in erectile dysfunction. Four separate analyses used integrated data from 4 randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled studies in men with lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia with and without erectile dysfunction to test whether total I-PSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) improvement was due to improvement in IIEF-EF (International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function domain score). Unidirectional and bidirectional path analysis models determined direct and indirect treatment effects mediated by improvements in lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction symptoms. A total of 1,496 men, of whom 77% had erectile dysfunction, received at least 1 dose of tadalafil 5 mg once daily or placebo. The placebo adjusted treatment effect for men with erectile dysfunction was represented by a mean decrease of -2.3 (p <0.0001) in total I-PSS vs -2.2 (p = 0.0007) for men without erectile dysfunction. The correlation between change from baseline in total I-PSS and IIEF-EF was weak (r(2) = 0.08, p <0.0001). The unidirectional path analysis model suggested that the total treatment effect on total I-PSS score improvement (2.25) was derived from a direct treatment effect of 1.57 (70%, p <0.001) and an indirect treatment effect of 0.67 (30% via IIEF-EF improvement, p <0.001). Bidirectional path analysis showed that total I-PSS improvement was largely attributed to direct (92.5%, p <0.001) vs indirect (7.5%, p = 0.32) treatment effects via IIEF-EF improvement. Regardless of the analytical approach, self-reported erectile dysfunction status did not appreciably influence tadalafil treatment response in men with lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia, supporting the dual action of tadalafil on lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  5. Perceptions of erectile dysfunction and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor therapy in a qualitative study of men and women in affected relationships.

    PubMed

    McGraw, Sarah A; Rosen, Raymond C; Althof, Stanley E; Dunn, Marian; Cameron, Ann; Wong, David

    2015-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction negatively affects men and women in relationships; however, the subjective experience of erectile dysfunction and phosphodiesterase-type 5 inhibitor therapy remains poorly understood. The authors therefore characterized participants' subjective understanding of erectile dysfunction and phosphodiesterase-type 5 inhibitor therapy using individual interviews with affected heterosexual men (n = 58) and women (n = 65). Responses were characterized by 6 psychosocial domains: explanation of the experience, emotional responses, socially expected responses, value of sex, communication with the partner, and treatment expectations. The findings may aid clinicians in relating to men with erectile dysfunction and thus potentially improve effectiveness of therapy.

  6. Interactions between lower urinary tract symptoms and cardiovascular risk factors determine distinct patterns of erectile dysfunction: a latent class analysis.

    PubMed

    Barbosa, João A B A; Muracca, Eduardo; Nakano, Élcio; Assalin, Adriana R; Cordeiro, Paulo; Paranhos, Mario; Cury, José; Srougi, Miguel; Antunes, Alberto A

    2013-12-01

    An epidemiological association between lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile dysfunction is well established. However, interactions among multiple risk factors and the role of each in pathological mechanisms are not fully elucidated We enrolled 898 men undergoing prostate cancer screening for evaluation with the International Prostate Symptom Score (I-PSS) and simplified International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaires. Age, race, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, serum hormones and anthropometric parameters were also evaluated. Risk factors for erectile dysfunction were identified by logistic regression. The 333 men with at least mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (IIEF 16 or less) were included in a latent class model to identify relationships across erectile dysfunction risk factors. Age, hypertension, diabetes, lower urinary tract symptoms and cardiovascular event were independent predictors of erectile dysfunction (p<0.05). We identified 3 latent classes of patients with erectile dysfunction (R2 entropy=0.82). Latent class 1 had younger men at low cardiovascular risk and a moderate/high prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms. Latent class 2 had the oldest patients at moderate cardiovascular risk with an increased prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms. Latent class 3 had men of intermediate age with the highest prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and lower urinary tract symptoms. Erectile dysfunction severity and lower urinary tract symptoms increased from latent class 1 to 3. Risk factor interactions determined different severities of lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile dysfunction. The effect of lower urinary tract symptoms and cardiovascular risk outweighed that of age. While in the youngest patients lower urinary tract symptoms acted as a single risk factor for erectile dysfunction, the contribution of vascular disease resulted in significantly more severe dysfunction. Applying a risk factor interaction model to prospective trials could reveal distinct classes of drug responses and help define optimal treatment strategies for specific groups. Copyright © 2013 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Yafi, Faysal A.; Jenkins, Lawrence; Albersen, Maarten; Corona, Giovanni; Isidori, Andrea M.; Goldfarb, Shari; Maggi, Mario; Nelson, Christian J.; Parish, Sharon; Salonia, Andrea; Tan, Ronny; Mulhall, John P.; Hellstrom, Wayne J. G.

    2016-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction is a multidimensional but common male sexual dysfunction that involves an alteration in any of the components of the erectile response, including organic, relational and psychological. Roles for nonendocrine (neurogenic, vasculogenic and iatrogenic) and endocrine pathways have been proposed. Owing to its strong association with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease, cardiac assessment may be warranted in men with symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Minimally invasive interventions to relieve the symptoms of erectile dysfunction include lifestyle modifications, oral drugs, injected vasodilator agents and vacuum erection devices. Surgical therapies are reserved for the subset of patients who have contraindications to these nonsurgical interventions, those who experience adverse effects from (or are refractory to) medical therapy and those who also have penile fibrosis or penile vascular insufficiency. Erectile dysfunction can have deleterious effects on a man’s quality of life; most patients have symptoms of depression and anxiety related to sexual performance. These symptoms, in turn, affect his partner’s sexual experience and the couple’s quality of life. This Primer highlights numerous aspects of erectile dysfunction, summarizes new treatment targets and ongoing preclinical studies that evaluate new pharmacotherapies, and covers the topic of regenerative medicine, which represents the future of sexual medicine. PMID:27188339

  8. Sexual history taking and sexually transmitted infection screening in patients initiating erectile dysfunction medication therapy.

    PubMed

    Holman, Katherine M; Carr, James Andrew; Baddley, John W; Hook, Edward W

    2013-11-01

    Erectile dysfunction medications are being prescribed frequently; however, little is known about the amount of sexual health screening occurring in this setting. A retrospective cohort study evaluating sexual health and sexually transmitted infection screening occurring in veterans receiving initial erectile dysfunction medication prescription was conducted. A total of 252 patients received initial erectile dysfunction medication prescriptions between October 1, 2009, and December 31, 2009; had at least 1 health care provider visit 12 months before the date of initial prescription; and had no documentation of previous erectile dysfunction medication use. Approximately 3% of these patients had any aspect of a sexual history recorded in the 24 months surrounding initial erectile dysfunction medication prescription. Sexually transmitted infection screening was 9.9% for syphilis, 4.8% for HIV, and 4.3% for gonorrhea/chlamydia before prescription, with only a slight increase in HIV screening after prescription. Minimal sexual health assessment is being performed during the time surrounding initial prescription of erectile dysfunction medication. Further work needs to evaluate patient and provider barriers to basic elements of sexual health care, such as taking sexual histories or screening for sexually transmitted infections.

  9. Laboratory evaluations of erectile dysfunction: an evidence based approach.

    PubMed

    Bodie, Joshua; Lewis, Jean; Schow, Doug; Monga, Manoj

    2003-06-01

    We evaluate the prevalence of laboratory abnormalities in men presenting for initial evaluation and therapy of erectile dysfunction. The computerized charts of men receiving treatment for erectile dysfunction from 1987 to 2002 were retrospectively reviewed. We pooled laboratory data for 3,547 men with erectile dysfunction to assess the prevalence of laboratory abnormalities. Values of the common laboratory screening tests for erectile dysfunction were recorded for testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, hemoglobin A(Ic), prostate specific antigen, hemoglobin, cholesterol and creatinine. Of those patients evaluated 18.7% had low testosterone, 4.6% had increased prolactin, 14.6% had abnormal luteinizing hormone, 4.0% had increased thyroid-stimulating hormone, 8.3% had increased prostate specific antigen, 26.5% had anemia and 11.9% tested had renal insufficiency. A high percentage of patients presenting with a primary complaint of erectile dysfunction had increased hemoglobin A(Ic) and total serum cholesterol levels (52.9% and 48.4%, respectively). An evidence based approach to standardization of laboratory evaluations for men presenting with erectile dysfunction is recommended. Laboratory screening should be directed to identify those risk factors that may benefit from lifestyle modification and pharmacological intervention.

  10. Erectile dysfunction and type 2 diabetes mellitus in northern Pakistan.

    PubMed

    Ahmed, Ibrar; Aamir, Aziz ul Hassan; Anwar, Ejaz; Ali, Sobia Sabir; Ali, Asfhaq; Ali, Amjad

    2013-12-01

    To determine the frequency of erectile dysfunction in married male Type-2 diabetic patients. The cross-sectional observational study was carried out at the Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Unit Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, from July 2011 to Apr 2012, comprising 217 male married Type-2 diabetic patients. Serum samples were assayed for blood glucose, lipid profile and glycated haemoglobin A1c. Body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio was calculated. Erectile dysfunction was assessed by Sexual Health Inventory for Men questionnaire. SPSS 18 was used for statistical analysis. A total of 217 patients were initially interviewed. The mean age was 43.1 +/- 8.160 years. The frequency of drectile dysfunction increased with age, duration of patients and increased body mass index. Overall, 6 (2.8%) patients had no erectile dysfunction, 37 (17.1%) had mild, 82 (37.8%) mild to moderate; 47 (21.7%) moderate; and 45 (20.7%) severe. Higher HbAlc levels and atherogenic dyslipidaemia were associated with erectile dysfunction. Poor glycaemic control was associated with increased erectile dysfunction risk. Duration of diabetes, older age, increased body mass index are associated with increased incidence of the condition in patients with diabetes. Intensive lifestyle changes in the beginning can add to the better management of Type-2 diabetes and prevention of erectile dysfunction.

  11. Prevalence and determinants of erectile dysfunction among diabetic patients attending in hospitals of central and northwestern zone of Tigray, northern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Seid, Awole; Gerensea, Hadgu; Tarko, Shambel; Zenebe, Yosef; Mezemir, Rahel

    2017-03-15

    The prevalence of erectile dysfunction among diabetic men varies between 35-90%. Although erectile dysfunction is widespread among men with diabetes, the condition often remains undiagnosed and demands appropriate assessment and prompt treatment. Erectile dysfunction can affect all aspects of a patient's life including physical, emotional, social, sexual, and relationships. The main aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and determinants of erectile dysfunction among diabetic patients attending hospitals in the Central and Northwest zone of Tigray, Ethiopia. A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted on 249 male diabetic patients attending five hospitals in the Central and Northwestern Zone of Tigray, Ethiopia using systematic random sampling. The data was collected from January 1 - February 30, 2016 and was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Correlation and multivariate logistic regression was employed to test associations between independent and outcome variables. The mean age of study participants was 43.39 years and the mean duration of diabetes diagnosis was 6.22 years. The overall prevalence of erectile dysfunction was 69.9%, with 32.9% suffering from mild, 31.7% moderate, and 5.2% severe erectile dysfunction. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that erective dysfunction was significantly predicted by old age (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] =15.013, CI:3.212-70.166), longer duration of diabetes (AOR = 3.77, CI:1.291-11.051), and lower monthly income (AOR = 0.285, CI:0.132-0.615). No association was found with body mass index, co-morbidity, glycemic control, and alcohol consumption. The prevalence of erective dysfunction in this study population was very high. Age, income, and duration of diabetes were the independent predictors of erectile dysfunction. Nearly all of the patients in the sample (97%) had not been screened or treated for erectile dysfunction. Assessment and management of erectile dysfunction in the diabetic clinic should be part of routine medical care during follow-up visits with diabetic patients. Healthcare providers should put an emphasis on screening and treating older patients and those who had a diabetes diagnosis for a longer duration.

  12. Relation of Erectile Dysfunction to Subclinical Myocardial Injury.

    PubMed

    Omland, Torbjørn; Randby, Anna; Hrubos-Strøm, Harald; Røsjø, Helge; Einvik, Gunnar

    2016-12-15

    The circulating concentration of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is an index of subclinical myocardial injury in several patient populations and in the general population. Erectile dysfunction is associated with greater risk for cardiovascular events, but the association with subclinical myocardial injury is not known. We aimed to test the hypothesis that the presence and severity of erectile dysfunction is associated with greater concentrations of cTnI in the general population. The presence and severity of erectile dysfunction was assessed by administering the International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire to 260 men aged 30 to 65 years recruited from a population-based study. Concentrations of cTnI were determined by a high-sensitivity (hs) assay. Hs-cTnI levels were significantly higher in subjects with than in those without erectile dysfunction (median 2.9 vs 1.6 ng/l; p <0.001). Men with erectile dysfunction (i.e., IIEF-5 sum score <22) were also significantly older; had a higher systolic blood pressure, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate, higher augmentation index and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide; and had a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and previous coronary artery disease than subjects without erectile dysfunction. These covariates were adjusted for in a multivariate linear regression model, yet the IIEF-5 sum score remained significantly negatively associated with the hs-cTnI concentration (standardized β -0.206; p <0.001). In conclusion, the presence and severity of erectile dysfunction is associated with circulating concentrations of hs-cTnI, indicating subclinical myocardial injury independently of cardiovascular risk factors, endothelial dysfunction and heart failure biomarkers. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Adjunctive treatment with lodenafil carbonate for erectile dysfunction in outpatients with schizophrenia and spectrum: a randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Nunes, Luciana Vargas Alves; Lacaz, Fernando Sargo; Bressan, Rodrigo Affonseca; Nunes, Sandra Odebrecht Vargas Alves; Mari, Jair de Jesus

    2013-04-01

    INTRODUCTION.: Evidence is accumulating to support the presence of erectile dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia. This dysregulation may be amenable to therapeutic intervention to improve adherence and quality of life of patients who suffer from schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders. AIM.: We aimed to evaluate the use of adjunctive medication lodenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in outpatients with schizophrenia and spectrum. METHODS.: The design was a randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled trial with lodenafil and it was carried at the Schizophrenia Outpatients Program. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES.: The measures used to assess sexual dysfunction were Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Quality of Life Scale (QLS) were also used. The measures included the levels of prolactin, estradiol, luteinizing hormone, sex hormone-binding globulin, free testosterone, and total testosterone at baseline and end point. Lodenafil and placebo pills were used by the patients for 16 weeks. RESULTS.: Fifty male outpatients fulfilled the criteria and 94% of the participants completed the study. Lodenafil and placebo produced improvement in ASEX, IIEF scale, PANSS, and QLS, and there was no statistical difference between lodenafil and placebo groups in all sexual domains in the results of PANSS and QLS and in the results of hormone levels. CONCLUSION.: These results indicate that both lodenafil and placebo were effective in the treatment of erectile dysfunction for schizophrenia. Placebo effect is very important in patients with schizophrenia and this study showed the importance of discussing sexuality and trying to treat these patients. Further studies designed to test treatments of erectile dysfunction in patients who suffer from schizophrenia are necessary. © 2013 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  14. Evaluation of the Causes of Erectile Dysfunction in Patients Undergoing Penile Doppler Ultrasonography in Pakistan

    PubMed Central

    Khanzada, Usman; Khan, Sohail Ahmed; Hussain, Munawar; Adel, Hatem; Masood, Kamran; Manohar, Murli

    2017-01-01

    Purpose In patients with erectile dysfunction, it is important to differentiate psychogenic from organic causes. Penile Doppler ultrasonography is a relatively inexpensive and minimally invasive tool for this purpose. This study was conducted to evaluate the causes of erectile dysfunction in an adult male population, using penile Doppler ultrasonography. Materials and Methods A retrospective study was conducted in a single center. All patients who presented with complaints of erectile dysfunction and underwent penile Doppler ultrasonography between July 2014 and June 2016 were included in this study. All examinations were performed using GE Voluson S6 and GE Logiq P5 devices. Following baseline scans, an intracavernosal injection of 20 µg of prostaglandin E1 was given. Peak systolic and end diastolic velocities were measured in each cavernosal artery. Patients with a peak systolic velocity of <25 cm/s were considered to have arterial insufficiency, while an end diastolic velocity of >5 cm/s was considered to indicate venous incompetence. Results Out of 97 patients (mean age, 37.09±11.59 years; range, 19~69 years), 50 patients (51.5%) had normal findings, 24 patients (24.7%) had arterial insufficiency, 15 patients (15.5%) had a venous leak, and 8 patients (8.2%) patients had arterial insufficiency with a venous leak. Psychogenic erectile dysfunction was significantly higher among patients aged ≤40 years, while arterial insufficiency with or without a venous leak was significantly higher among patients aged >40 years (p=0.022). Conclusions A majority of the studied individuals demonstrated no organic cause of erectile dysfunction, thus confirming a high prevalence of the psychogenic etiology, particularly in relatively young individuals. PMID:28459144

  15. Testosterone and Erectile Function: From Basic Research to a New Clinical Paradigm for Managing Men with Androgen Insufficiency and Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Traish, Abdulmaged M.; Goldstein, Irwin; Kim, Noel N.

    2007-01-01

    Objectives Androgens are essential for the development and growth of the penis, and they regulate erectile physiology by multiple mechanisms. Our goal is to provide a concise overview of the basic research and how this knowledge can be translated into a new clinical paradigm for patient management. In addition, this new paradigm may serve as a basis for stimulating constructive debate regarding the use of testosterone in men, and to promote new, innovative basic and clinical research to further understand the underlying mechanisms of androgen action in restoring erectile physiology. Methods A literature review was performed utilizing the US National Library of Medicine's PubMed database. Results On the basis of evidence derived from laboratory animal studies and clinical data, we postulate that androgen insufficiency disrupts cellular-signaling pathways and produces pathologic alterations in penile tissues, leading to erectile dysfunction. In this review, we discuss androgen-dependent cellular, molecular, and physiologic mechanisms modulating erectile function in the animal model, and the implication of this knowledge in testosterone use in the clinical setting to treat erectile dysfunction. The new clinical paradigm incorporates many of the consensed points of view discussed in traditional consensed algorithms exclusively designed for men with androgen insufficiency. There are, however, novel and innovative differences with this new clinical paradigm. This paradigm represents a fresh effort to provide mandatory and optional management strategies for men with both androgen insufficiency and erectile dysfunction. Conclusions The new clinical paradigm is evidence-based and represents one of the first attempts to address a logical management plan for men with concomitant hormonal and sexual health concerns. PMID:17329016

  16. Cognitive-Behavioral Erectile Dysfunction Treatment for Gay Men

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hart, Trevor A.; Schwartz, Danielle R.

    2010-01-01

    The purpose of the present paper is to assist cognitive-behavioral therapists who are treating erectile dysfunction among gay men. Little information is available to cognitive-behavioral therapists about the psychological and social effects of erectile dysfunction in this population, or how to incorporate the concerns of gay men with erectile…

  17. Herpes zoster producing temporary erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Rix, G H; Carroll, D N; MacFarlane, J R

    2001-12-01

    Varicella Zoster affecting the sacral dermatomes is a rare but well recognised cause of urinary retention. Only one case of erectile dysfunction associated with Varicella Zoster has previously been described, which was longstanding, but no cases of transient erectile dysfunction following Zoster infection are recorded. We present one such case.

  18. [Clinical efficacy of the drug enerion in the treatment of patients with psychogenic (functional) erectile dysfunction].

    PubMed

    Dmitriev, D G; Gamidov, S I; Permiakova, O V

    2005-01-01

    Twenty patients with psychogenic erectile dysfunction received the drug enerion (Hungary). After a 30-day course of enerion erectile function improved in 16 of the above patients. A mean value of the international index of erectile function (IIEF) increased in them from 17.5 to 24.8 points. Improvement of cavernous arterial blood flow after the treatment was seen in 3 of 6 patients with arterial disorders. As shown by electromyographic examinations, cavernous electric activity normalized in 8 patients. Thus, psychogenic erectile dysfunction can be effectively treated with enerion.

  19. Erectile Dysfunction: A Review of Historical Treatments With a Focus on the Development of the Inflatable Penile Prosthesis

    PubMed Central

    Gurtner, Kristen; Saltzman, Amanda; Hebert, Kristi; Laborde, Eric

    2015-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction has been a concern for men since the beginning of written history. For many men it can lead to severe psychological distress and humiliation. The treatment of erectile dysfunction has advanced significantly over the past 200 years. Men today are presented with many more viable therapy options leading to improved efficacy and more satisfactory sex lives. The objective of this article is to explore historical options for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, with particular emphasis on the development and progression of the inflatable penile prosthesis. PMID:26206161

  20. Sequential contrast-enhanced MR imaging of the penis.

    PubMed

    Kaneko, K; De Mouy, E H; Lee, B E

    1994-04-01

    To determine the enhancement patterns of the penis at magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Sequential contrast material-enhanced MR images of the penis in a flaccid state were obtained in 16 volunteers (12 with normal penile function and four with erectile dysfunction). Subjects with normal erectile function showed gradual and centrifugal enhancement of the corpora cavernosa, while those with erectile dysfunction showed poor enhancement with abnormal progression. Sequential contrast-enhanced MR imaging provides additional morphologic information for the evaluation of erectile dysfunction.

  1. Erectile dysfunction in the cardiovascular patient.

    PubMed

    Vlachopoulos, Charalambos; Jackson, Graham; Stefanadis, Christodoulos; Montorsi, Piero

    2013-07-01

    Erectile dysfunction is common in the patient with cardiovascular disease. It is an important component of the quality of life and it also confers an independent risk for future cardiovascular events. The usual 3-year time period between the onset of erectile dysfunction symptoms and a cardiovascular event offers an opportunity for risk mitigation. Thus, sexual function should be incorporated into cardiovascular disease risk assessment for all men. A comprehensive approach to cardiovascular risk reduction (comprising of both lifestyle changes and pharmacological treatment) improves overall vascular health, including sexual function. Proper sexual counselling improves the quality of life and increases adherence to medication. This review explores the critical connection between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease and evaluates how this relationship may influence clinical practice. Algorithms for the management of patient with erectile dysfunction according to the risk for sexual activity and future cardiovascular events are proposed.

  2. Erectile dysfunction is a strong predictor of poor quality of life in men with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

    PubMed

    Malavige, L S; Jayaratne, S D; Kathriarachchi, S T; Sivayogan, S; Ranasinghe, P; Levy, J C

    2014-06-01

    To identify predictors of poor quality of life among men with diabetes from a comprehensive set of sexual, clinical, socio-economic and lifestyle variables. This was a cross-sectional observational-study of 253 men with Type 2 diabetes, randomly selected from a clinic in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Erectile dysfunction was assessed using the five-item International Index of Erectile Function and quality of life was assessed using the Sri Lankan version of the 36-item short form health survey questionnaire and the disease-specific Psychological Impact of Erectile Dysfunction scale. The presence of premature ejaculation, reduced libido, socio-demographic and lifestyle data was obtained using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Significant predictors of quality of life were identified by stepwise multivariate linear regression models for short form-36 subscales, summary scales and two scales of Psychological Impact of Erectile Dysfunction. Significant predictors on the physical summary scale of the 36-item short form were erectile dysfunction (β = 7.93, 95% CI 3.70-12.17, P < 0.001) and reduced libido (β = 5.20, 95% CI 0.82-9.59, P < 0.05). Predictors on the mental health summary scale of the 36-item short form were erectile dysfunction (β = 5.82, 95% CI 2.26-9.37, P < 0.01), BMI > 27.5 kg/m(2) (β = 9.12, 95% CI 1.38-17.44, P < 0.05), ischaemic heart disease (β = 6.39, 95% CI 0.74-12.04, P < 0.05) and insulin therapy (β = 5.28, 95% CI 0.34-10.22, P < 0.05). Significant predictors in the sexual experience scale of the Psychological Impact of Erectile Dysfunction were erectile dysfunction (β = 6.57, 95% CI 4.63-8.51, P < 0.001), reduced libido (β =4.33, 95% CI 2.34-6.32, P < 0.001) and postural hypotension (β = 3.99, 95% CI 0.13-7.85, P < 0.05). Predictors on the emotional life scale of the Psychological Impact of Erectile Dysfunction were erectile dysfunction (β = 2.96, 95% CI 1.37-4.58, P < 0.001), reduced libido 2.75 (β = 2.75, 95% CI 1.12-4.40, P < 0.01), younger age (β = 1.05, 95% CI 0.35-1.75, P < 0.01) and postural hypotension (β = 3.39, 95% CI 0.35-6.45, P < 0.05). Erectile dysfunction was a strong predictor of poor generic and disease-specific quality of life among other sexual and clinical variables in men with diabetes. © 2014 The Authors. Diabetic Medicine © 2014 Diabetes UK.

  3. Central obesity is an independent predictor of erectile dysfunction in older men.

    PubMed

    Riedner, Charles Edison; Rhoden, Ernani Luis; Ribeiro, Eduardo Porto; Fuchs, Sandra Costa

    2006-10-01

    There is a growing body of evidence in the literature correlating erectile dysfunction to obesity. We investigated the correlation of different anthropometric indexes of central obesity to erectile dysfunction. A cross-sectional study was performed including 256 consecutive men 40 years old or older. All men completed the International Index of Erectile Function, and were evaluated routinely with a clinical history, physical examination and blood analysis for fasting serum glucose, lipid profile and serum testosterone. Anthropometric measures included body mass index, waist circumference, sagittal abdominal diameter, maximal abdominal circumference, and waist-hip, waist-thigh, waist-height, sagittal abdominal diameter-thigh and sagittal abdominal diameter-height indexes. In men 40 to 60 years old the different anthropometric indexes of central obesity were not correlated with the presence of erectile dysfunction (p > 0.05). Men older than 60 years (41%, range 61 to 81) demonstrated an association among erectile dysfunction and waist-hip index (p = 0.04), waist-thigh index (p = 0.02), sagittal abdominal diameter (p = 0.03), sagittal abdominal diameter-height index (p = 0.02) and maximal abdominal circumference (p = 0.04). After logistic regression analysis an independent effect on the presence of erectile dysfunction was observed for waist-hip index (OR 8.56, 95% CI 1.44-50.73), sagittal abdominal diameter (OR 7.87, 95% CI 1.24-49.75), sagittal abdominal diameter-height index (OR 14.21, 95% CI 1.11-182.32), maximum abdominal circumference (OR 11.72, 95% CI 1.73-79.18) and waist circumference (OR 19.37, 95% CI 1.15-326.55). This study suggests that central obesity, assessed by several anthropometric indicators, is associated to the presence of erectile dysfunction in men older than 60 years. Sagittal abdominal diameter, sagittal abdominal diameter-height index, maximum abdominal circumference, waist circumference and waist-hip index were useful indicators to predict the presence of erectile dysfunction.

  4. Risk of Erectile Dysfunction in Transfusion-naive Thalassemia Men

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Yu-Guang; Lin, Te-Yu; Lin, Cheng-Li; Dai, Ming-Shen; Ho, Ching-Liang; Kao, Chia-Hung

    2015-01-01

    Abstract Based on the mechanism of pathophysiology, thalassemia major or transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients may have an increased risk of developing organic erectile dysfunction resulting from hypogonadism. However, there have been few studies investigating the association between erectile dysfunction and transfusion-naive thalassemia populations. We constructed a population-based cohort study to elucidate the association between transfusion-naive thalassemia populations and organic erectile dysfunction This nationwide population-based cohort study involved analyzing data from 1998 to 2010 obtained from the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database, with a follow-up period extending to the end of 2011. We identified men with transfusion-naive thalassemia and selected a comparison cohort that was frequency-matched with these according to age, and year of diagnosis thalassemia at a ratio of 1 thalassemia man to 4 control men. We analyzed the risks for transfusion-naive thalassemia men and organic erectile dysfunction by using Cox proportional hazards regression models. In this study, 588 transfusion-naive thalassemia men and 2337 controls were included. Total 12 patients were identified within the thalassaemia group and 10 within the control group. The overall risks for developing organic erectile dysfunction were 4.56-fold in patients with transfusion-naive thalassemia men compared with the comparison cohort after we adjusted for age and comorbidities. Our long-term cohort study results showed that in transfusion-naive thalassemia men, there was a higher risk for the development of organic erectile dysfunction, particularly in those patients with comorbidities. PMID:25837766

  5. Risk of erectile dysfunction in transfusion-naive thalassemia men: a nationwide population-based retrospective cohort study.

    PubMed

    Chen, Yu-Guang; Lin, Te-Yu; Lin, Cheng-Li; Dai, Ming-Shen; Ho, Ching-Liang; Kao, Chia-Hung

    2015-04-01

    Based on the mechanism of pathophysiology, thalassemia major or transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients may have an increased risk of developing organic erectile dysfunction resulting from hypogonadism. However, there have been few studies investigating the association between erectile dysfunction and transfusion-naive thalassemia populations. We constructed a population-based cohort study to elucidate the association between transfusion-naive thalassemia populations and organic erectile dysfunction. This nationwide population-based cohort study involved analyzing data from 1998 to 2010 obtained from the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database, with a follow-up period extending to the end of 2011. We identified men with transfusion-naive thalassemia and selected a comparison cohort that was frequency-matched with these according to age, and year of diagnosis thalassemia at a ratio of 1 thalassemia man to 4 control men. We analyzed the risks for transfusion-naive thalassemia men and organic erectile dysfunction by using Cox proportional hazards regression models. In this study, 588 transfusion-naive thalassemia men and 2337 controls were included. Total 12 patients were identified within the thalassaemia group and 10 within the control group. The overall risks for developing organic erectile dysfunction were 4.56-fold in patients with transfusion-naive thalassemia men compared with the comparison cohort after we adjusted for age and comorbidities. Our long-term cohort study results showed that in transfusion-naive thalassemia men, there was a higher risk for the development of organic erectile dysfunction, particularly in those patients with comorbidities.

  6. Prevalence and correlates of self-reported sexual dysfunction in CKD: a meta-analysis of observational studies.

    PubMed

    Navaneethan, Sankar D; Vecchio, Mariacristina; Johnson, David W; Saglimbene, Valeria; Graziano, Giusi; Pellegrini, Fabio; Lucisano, Giuseppe; Craig, Jonathan C; Ruospo, Marinella; Gentile, Giorgio; Manfreda, Valeria Maria; Querques, Marialuisa; Stroumza, Paul; Torok, Marietta; Celia, Eduardo; Gelfman, Ruben; Ferrari, Juan Nin; Bednarek-Skublewska, Anna; Dulawa, Jan; Bonifati, Carmen; Hegbrant, Jörgen; Wollheim, Charlotta; Jannini, Emmanuele A; Strippoli, Giovanni F M

    2010-10-01

    Sexual dysfunction is an under-recognized problem in men and women with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The prevalence, correlates, and predictors of this condition in patients with CKD have not been evaluated comprehensively. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Patients treated using dialysis (dialysis patients), patients treated using transplant (transplant recipients), and patients with CKD not treated using dialysis or transplant (nondialysis nontransplant patients with CKD). Observational studies conducted in patients with CKD only or including a control group without CKD. Type of study population. Sexual dysfunction in men and women with CKD using validated tools, such as the International Index of Erectile Function, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), or other measures as reported by study investigators. 50 studies (8,343 patients) of variable size (range, 16-1,023 patients) were included in this review. Almost all studies explored sexual dysfunction in men and specifically erectile dysfunction. The summary estimate of erectile dysfunction in men with CKD was 70% (95% CI, 62%-77%; 21 studies, 4,389 patients). Differences in reported prevalence rates of erectile dysfunction between different studies were attributable primarily to age, study populations, and type of study tool used to assess the presence of erectile dysfunction. In women, the reported prevalence of sexual dysfunction was assessed in only 306 patients from 2 studies and ranged from 30%-80%. Compared with the general population, women with CKD had a significantly lower overall FSFI score (8 studies or subgroups, 407 patients; mean difference, -9.28; 95% CI, -12.92 to -5.64). Increasing age, diabetes mellitus, and depression consistently were found to correlate with sexual dysfunction in 20 individual studies of patients with CKD using different methods. Suboptimal and lack of uniform assessment of outcome measures. Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in both men and women with CKD, especially among those on dialysis. Larger studies enrolling different ethnic groups, using validated study tools, and analyzing the influence of various factors on the development of sexual dysfunction are needed. Copyright © 2010 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Chronic periodontitis is associated with erectile dysfunction. A case-control study in european population.

    PubMed

    Martín, Amada; Bravo, Manuel; Arrabal, Miguel; Magán-Fernández, Antonio; Mesa, Francisco

    2018-07-01

    To determine the association between chronic periodontitis and erectile dysfunction adjusting for biochemical markers and other comorbidities. A case-control study was conducted on 158 male patients; 80 cases with erectile dysfunction according to the International Index of Erectile Function and 78 controls. Sociodemographic data were gathered, and a periodontal examination was performed. Testosterone, lipid profile, C-reactive protein and glycaemic parameters were assessed. All variables were compared between groups, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. 74% of the cases were diagnosed with chronic periodontitis. Number of sites with pocket probing depth 4-6 mm (p = 0.05) and number of sites with clinical attachment loss >3 mm (p < 0.01) were higher in the cases. Triglycerides (p < 0.01), C-reactive protein (p = 0.02) and glycosylated haemoglobin (p = 0.04) were also higher in the cases. Logistic regression showed that patients with chronic periodontitis were more likely to have erectile dysfunction (OR=2.17; 95% CI (1.06-4.43); p = 0.03) independently of other confounders. Patients with erectile dysfunction showed worse periodontal condition. Chronic periodontitis seems to play a key role as a risk factor in the pathogenesis of erectile dysfunction independently of other morbidities. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  8. Erectile dysfunction: physiology, causes and patient management.

    PubMed

    Steggall, Martin J

    This article examines the prevalence, causes, identification, assessment and treatment options for men with erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is thought to affect one in ten men across the UK and is often a consequence of pathology and/or pharmacology. Treatment can be offered to all patients, but the keys to management are identification, accurate assessment and focused therapy. Nurses are well placed to identify and support men who have this distressing problem.

  9. Carotid artery intima-media thickness and erectile dysfunction in patients with metabolic syndrome.

    PubMed

    Unal, Mustafa; Aksoy, Duygu Yazgan; Aydın, Yusuf; Tanriover, Mine Durusu; Berker, Dilek; Karakaya, Jale; Guler, Serdar

    2014-05-29

    Metabolic syndrome (MS) has become a pandemic in Turkey, as is the case globally. Increase in carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) and erectile dysfunction (ED) may be evident before the clinical signs of cardiovascular disease appear. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of increased CIMT and ED as markers of atherosclerotic disease in patients with MS. Thirty-two patients with MS and 29 healthy controls were included. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters, along with total testosterone (TT), high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), were recorded. Carotid artery intima-media thickness was measured. Erectile dysfunction was assessed with International Index of Erectile Function. Patients with MS had higher BMI, fasting plasma glucose, post-prandial plasma glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol, triglycerides, hs-CRP, and CIMT, whereas TT levels were lower (p<0.0001). The prevalence and severity of erectile dysfunction were higher in patients with MS (p<0.0001). Erectile dysfunction scores correlated inversely with CIMT. MS patients with ED were older and had higher CIMT compared to those without ED. Increase in age and HOMA and decrease in TT increased the risk of ED. When KIMT exceeding the 95th percentile of healthy controls was accepted as a risk factor for CVD, presence of ED was the only determinant for this increase. Erectile dysfunction was more prevalent and severe in patients with MS and correlated with subclinical endothelial dysfunction. Total testosterone deficiency was prominent among MS patients. Presence of ED points to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease when MS is present.

  10. Prescription opioids for back pain and use of medications for erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Deyo, Richard A; Smith, David H M; Johnson, Eric S; Tillotson, Carrie J; Donovan, Marilee; Yang, Xiuhai; Petrik, Amanda; Morasco, Benjamin J; Dobscha, Steven K

    2013-05-15

    Cross-sectional analysis of electronic medical and pharmacy records. To examine associations between use of medication for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement and use of opioid therapy, patient age, depression, and smoking status. Males with chronic pain may experience erectile dysfunction related to depression, smoking, age, or opioid-related hypogonadism. The prevalence of this problem in back pain populations and the relative importance of several risk factors are unknown. We examined electronic pharmacy and medical records for males with back pain in a large group model health maintenance organization during 2004. Relevant prescriptions were considered for 6 months before and after the index visit. There were 11,327 males with a diagnosis of back pain. Males who received medications for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement (n = 909) were significantly older than those who did not and had greater comorbidity, depression, smoking, and use of sedative-hypnotics. In logistic regressions, the long-term use of opioids was associated with greater use of medications for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement compared with no opioid use (odds ratio, 1.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.12-1.87, P < 0.01). Age, comorbidity, depression, and use of sedative-hypnotics were also independently associated with the use of medications for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement. Patients prescribed daily opioid doses of 120 mg of morphine-equivalents or more had greater use of medication for erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement than patients without opioid use (odds ratio, 1.58; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-2.43), even with adjustment for the duration of opioid therapy. Dose and duration of opioid use, as well as age, comorbidity, depression, and use of sedative-hypnotics, were associated with evidence of erectile dysfunction. These findings may be important in the process of decision making for the long-term use of opioids. 4.

  11. Pharmacological Prevention and Reversion of Erectile Dysfunction After Radical Prostatectomy, by Modulation of Nitric Oxide/cGMP Pathways

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-03-01

    then sacrificed, body weights obtained, and paraffin-embedded tissue sections from the skin - denuded penile shaft were subjected to Masson trichrome...responsible for vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) associated with aging , smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and post-radical prostatectomy. These...Pending. PI: Gonzalez-Cadavid NF (2009). Erectile Dysfunction and Nitric Oxide Synthase in Aging . RO1 DK53069-07 (resubmission). 11/09-10/14. No

  12. Low Intensity Shock Wave Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction-How Long Does the Effect Last?

    PubMed

    Kitrey, Noam D; Vardi, Yoram; Appel, Boaz; Shechter, Arik; Massarwi, Omar; Abu-Ghanem, Yasmin; Gruenwald, Ilan

    2018-03-01

    We studied the long-term efficacy of penile low intensity shock wave treatment 2 years after an initially successful outcome. Men with a successful outcome of low intensity shock wave treatment according to the minimal clinically important difference on the IIEF-EF (International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function) questionnaire were followed at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Efficacy was assessed by the IIEF-EF. Failure during followup was defined as a decrease in the IIEF-EF below the minimal clinically important difference. We screened a total of 156 patients who underwent the same treatment protocol but participated in different clinical studies. At 1 month treatment was successful in 99 patients (63.5%). During followup a gradual decrease in efficacy was observed. The beneficial effect was maintained after 2 years in only 53 of the 99 patients (53.5%) in whom success was initially achieved. Patients with severe erectile dysfunction were prone to earlier failure than those with nonsevere erectile dysfunction. During the 2-year followup the effect of low intensity shock wave treatment was lost in all patients with diabetes who had severe erectile dysfunction at baseline. On the other hand, patients with milder forms of erectile dysfunction without diabetes had a 76% chance that the beneficial effect of low intensity shock wave treatment would be preserved after 2 years. Low intensity shock wave treatment is effective in the short term but treatment efficacy was maintained after 2 years in only half of the patients. In patients with milder forms of erectile dysfunction the beneficial effect is more likely to be preserved. Copyright © 2018 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Effects of streptozotocin-induced diabetes on bladder and erectile (dys)function in the same rat in vivo.

    PubMed

    Christ, George J; Hsieh, Yi; Zhao, Weixin; Schenk, Gregory; Venkateswarlu, Karicheti; Wang, Hong-Zhan; Tar, Moses T; Melman, Arnold

    2006-05-01

    To establish the methods, feasibility and utility of evaluating the impact of diabetes on bladder and erectile function in the same rat, as more than half of diabetic patients have bladder dysfunction, and half of diabetic men have erectile dysfunction, but the severity of coincident disease has not been rigorously assessed. In all, 16 F-344 rats had diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ), and were divided into insulin-treated (five) and untreated (11), and compared with age-matched controls (10), all assessed in parallel. All STZ rats were diabetic for 8-11 weeks. Cystometric studies were conducted on all rats, with cavernosometric studies conducted on a subset of rats. There were insulin-reversible increases in the following cystometric variables; bladder weight, bladder capacity, micturition volume, residual volume, micturition pressure and spontaneous activity (P < 0.05, in all, one-way analysis of variance, anova). Cavernosometry showed a diabetes-related, insulin-reversible decline in the cavernosal nerve-stimulated intracavernosal pressure (ICP) response at all levels of current stimulation (P < 0.05, in all one-way anova). Plotting erectile capacity (i.e. ICP) against bladder capacity showed no correlation between the extent of the decline in erectile capacity and the magnitude of the increase in bladder capacity. These studies extend previous work to indicate that the extent of diabetes-related bladder and erectile dysfunction can vary in the same rat. As such, these findings highlight the importance of evaluating the impact of diabetes on multiple organ systems in the lower urinary tract. Future studies using this model system should lead to a better understanding of the initiation, development, progression and coincidence of these common diabetic complications.

  14. Effects of moclobemide on sexual performance and nocturnal erections in psychogenic erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Mann, K; Pankok, J; Leissner, J; Benkert, O

    2001-06-01

    We tested the hypothesis that the selective reversible MAO-A inhibitor moclobemide has a specific therapeutic effect on erectile dysfunction independent of its antidepressive properties. In a double-blind placebo controlled study, 12 male outpatients suffering from psychogenic erectile dysfunction without any other psychiatric disorder were investigated. Based on comprehensive diagnosis before the beginning of the study, organic factors relevant for sexual function were excluded. The treatment period was 8 weeks. Half the patients received 450 mg moclobemide during the first week, and 600 mg afterwards; the others received placebo. Apart from assessment of erectile function by means of the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale, nocturnal erections were measured under polysomnographic control at baseline and at the end of the treatment period. The evaluation of the CGI scale revealed a clearly stronger improvement under moclobemide compared to placebo during the study period. The therapeutic efficacy found on the subjective level had no clear correlate on the neurophysiological level. No alterations of nocturnal erectile parameters were obvious under treatment, neither were clinically relevant alterations found regarding sleep EEG parameters. The medication was well tolerated without serious adverse events. The findings support the hypothesis that moclobemide has a specific effect on erectile dysfunction. Thus, patients suffering from psychogenic erectile dysfunction who are not depressed might benefit from moclobemide without relevant side effects.

  15. hSMR3A as a marker for patients with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Tong, Yuehong; Tar, Moses; Monrose, Val; DiSanto, Michael; Melman, Arnold; Davies, Kelvin P

    2007-07-01

    We recently reported that Vcsa1 is one of the most down-regulated genes in the corpora of rats in 3 distinct models of erectile dysfunction. Since gene transfer of plasmids expressing Vcsa1 or intracorporeal injection of its mature peptide product sialorphin into the corpora of aging rats was shown to restore erectile function, we proposed that the Vcsa1 gene has a direct role in erectile function. To determine if similar changes in gene expression occur in the corpora of human subjects with erectile dysfunction we identified a human homologue of Vcsa1 (hSMR3A) and determined the level of expression of hSMR3A in patients. hSMR3A was identified as a homologue of Vcsa1 by searching protein databases for proteins with similarity. hSMR3A cDNA was generated and subcloned into the plasmid pVAX to generate pVAX-hSMR3A. pVAX-hSMR3A (25 or 100 microg) was intracorporeally injected into aging rats. The effect on erectile physiology was compared histologically and by measuring intracorporeal pressure/blood pressure with controls treated with the empty plasmid pVAX. Total RNA was extracted from human corporeal tissue obtained from patients undergoing previously scheduled penile surgery. Patients were grouped according to normal erectile function (3), erectile dysfunction and diabetes (5) and patients without diabetes but with erectile dysfunction (5). Quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the hSMR3A expression level. Intracorporeal injection of 25 microg pVAX-hSMR3A was able to significantly increase the intracorporeal pressure-to-blood pressure ratio in aging rats compared to age matched controls. Higher amounts (100 microg) of gene transfer of the plasmid caused less of an improvement in the intracorporeal pressure-to-blood pressure ratio compared to controls, although there was histological and visual evidence that the animals were post-priapitic. These physiological effects were similar to previously reported effects of intracorporeal injection of pVAX-Vcsa1 into the corpora of aging rats, establishing hSMR3A as a functional homologue of Vcsa1. More than 10-fold down-regulation in hSMR3A transcript expression was observed in the corpora of patients with vs without erectile dysfunction. In patients with diabetes associated and nondiabetes associated erectile dysfunction hSMR3A expression was found to be down-regulated. These results suggest that hSMR3A can act as a marker for erectile dysfunction associated with diabetic and nondiabetic etiologies. Given that our previous studies demonstrated that gene transfer of the Vcsa1 gene and intracorporeal injection of its protein product in rats can restore erectile function, these results suggest that therapies that increase the hSMR3A gene and product expression could potentially have a positive impact on erectile function.

  16. Effect of tadalafil 5mg daily treatment on the ejaculatory times, lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile function in patients with erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Karabakan, Mehmet; Keskin, Ercument; Akdemir, Serkan; Bozkurt, Aliseydi

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the effect of a 5mg daily tadalafil treatment on the ejaculation time, erectile function and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients with erectile dysfunction. Materials and Methods A total of 60 patients diagnosed with erectile dysfunction were retrospectively evaluated using the international index of erectile function questionnaire-5 (IIEF-5), intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) and international prostate symptoms scores (IPSS). After the patients were treated with 5mg tadalafil once a day for three months, their erection, ejaculation and LUTS were assessed again. The fasting levels of blood glucose, total testosterone, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol were measured. The independent-samples t-test was used to compare the pre- and post-treatment scores of the patients. Results The mean age of the 60 participants was 50.4±7.9 and the mean baseline serum total testosterone, total cholesterol, and fasting blood sugar were 444.6±178.6ng dL-1, 188.7±29.6mg/dL-1,104 (80-360) mg dL-1, respectively. The mean baseline scores were 2.2±1.4 min for IELT, 9.5±3.7 for IIEF-5 and 14.1±4.5 for IPSS. Following the three-month daily 5mg tadalafil treatment, the scores were found to be 3.4±1.9 min, 16.1±4.7, and 10.4±3.8 for IELT, IIEF and IPSS, respectively. When the baseline and post-treatment scores were compared, a statistically significant increase was observed in the IELTs and IIEF-5 values whereas there was a significant decrease in IPSS (p<0.01). Conclusion A daily dose of 5mg tadalafil can be safely used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and LUTS, that prolongs the ejaculatory latency time. PMID:27819758

  17. Sexual activity, erectile dysfunction and their correlates among 1,566 older Chinese men in Southern China.

    PubMed

    Wong, Samuel Yeung Shan; Leung, Jason Chi Shun; Woo, Jean

    2009-01-01

    Few studies on sexuality and its correlates in adults have been conducted in Asia; most studies in Asia have focused instead on erectile dysfunction in men rather than sexuality or sexual activities. This study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence and factors associated with sexual activity and erectile dysfunction in elderly Chinese men aged 65 years and above. Sexual activity and sexual functions were assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function-5. Depressive symptoms were measured by the Chinese version of the Geriatric Depression Scale. Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) were measured by the International Prostatic Symptom Score. Cross-sectional data from a large prospective cohort study of Chinese elderly men were used in this study. A questionnaire that included demographic, lifestyle, and medical risk factors and physical examination were administered to 1566 Chinese men aged between 65 to 92 years in Hong Kong. Only 30.7% of men were sexually active in the previous 6 months in this sample and among those who were sexually active, 88% had some form of erectile dysfunction. Being sexually inactive in the previous 6 months was associated with being older (odds ratio [OR] = 1.80; confidence interval [CI]: 1.56-2.09), single (OR = 1.87; CI = 1.19-2.94) and the presence of peripheral arterial disease (OR = 2.43; CI: 1.25-4.71). In multiple multinomial logistic regression, having clinically relevant depressive symptoms (OR = 3.37; CI: 1.31-8.70) and having moderate to severe LUTS (OR = 1.63; CI: 1.01-2.64) were independently associated with increased risk of having erectile dysfunction. We showed that a large proportion of elderly men were not sexually active in Hong Kong. For those who were sexually active, most suffered from some degree of erectile dysfunction. Having clinically relevant depressive symptoms and LUTS were independently associated with increased risk of erectile dysfunction.

  18. [Levitra (oral dispersible tablet)--an innovative drug for the treatment of patients with erectile dysfunction].

    PubMed

    Korneev, I A

    2013-01-01

    The arsenal of professionals providing assistance to men with erectile dysfunction includes a new, mouth dissolving dosage form of the vardenafil--levitra ODT. This form is effective, safe, and has a higher bioavailability as compared to vardenafil in the form of coated tablets. POTENT I and POTENT II studies revealed that levitra ODT equally successfully corrects erectile dysfunction in men younger and older than 65 years regardless of concomitant diseases and metabolic disorders: hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia. In addition, it was found that this drug helped to successfully carry out sexual intercourse in the first 15 minutes after dosing in 62.5% of patients. This allows to widely recommend levitra ODT for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in young men and older men.

  19. Sildenafil citrate for the management of antidepressant-associated erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Nurnberg, H George; Hensley, Paula L

    2003-01-01

    Sexual side effects of serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as antidepressant-associated erectile dysfunction, are common and negatively impact treatment compliance. Current management approaches have important limitations, and most lack clear and meaningful efficacy in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. A MEDLINE search (English language, 1966-2003) was performed using the terms antidepressive agents, erectile dysfunction, and sildenafil. Emphasis was placed on studies that used specific sexual function measurements and were placebo controlled. Sildenafil citrate, a selective and competitive inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type 5, enhances the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-mediated relaxation of cavernosal smooth muscles in response to sexual stimulation, permitting vascular engorgement and penile erection. The efficacy and tolerability of sildenafil in the treatment of antidepressant-associated erectile dysfunction have been confirmed in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials.

  20. Health-Related Lifestyle Factors and Sexual Dysfunction: A Meta-Analysis of Population-Based Research.

    PubMed

    Allen, Mark S; Walter, Emma E

    2018-04-01

    Sexual dysfunction is a common problem among men and women and is associated with negative individual functioning, relationship difficulties, and lower quality of life. To determine the magnitude of associations between 6 health-related lifestyle factors (cigarette smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity, diet, caffeine, and cannabis use) and 3 common sexual dysfunctions (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and female sexual dysfunction). A comprehensive literature search of 10 electronic databases identified 89 studies that met the inclusion criteria (452 effect sizes; N = 348,865). Pooled mean effects (for univariate, age-adjusted, and multivariable-adjusted estimates) were computed using inverse-variance weighted random-effects meta-analysis and moderation by study and population characteristics were tested using random-effects meta-regression. Mean effect sizes from 92 separate meta-analyses provided evidence that health-related lifestyle factors are important for sexual dysfunction. Cigarette smoking (past and current), alcohol intake, and physical activity had dose-dependent associations with erectile dysfunction. Risk of erectile dysfunction increased with greater cigarette smoking and decreased with greater physical activity. Alcohol had a curvilinear association such that moderate intake was associated with a lower risk of erectile dysfunction. Participation in physical activity was associated with a lower risk of female sexual dysfunction. There was some evidence that a healthy diet was related to a lower risk of erectile dysfunction and female sexual dysfunction, and caffeine intake was unrelated to erectile dysfunction. Publication bias appeared minimal and findings were similar for clinical and non-clinical samples. Modification of lifestyle factors would appear to be a useful low-risk approach to decreasing the risk of erectile dysfunction and female sexual dysfunction. Strengths include the testing of age-adjusted and multivariable-adjusted models and tests of potential moderators using meta-regression. Limitations include low statistical power in models testing diet, caffeine, and cannabis use as risk factors. Results provide compelling evidence that cigarette smoking, alcohol, and physical activity are important for sexual dysfunction. Insufficient research was available to draw conclusions regarding risk factors for premature ejaculation or for cannabis use as a risk factor. These findings should be of interest to clinicians treating men and women with complaints relating to symptoms of sexual dysfunction. Allen MS, Walter EE. Health-Related Lifestyle Factors and Sexual Dysfunction: A Meta-Analysis of Population-Based Research. J Sex Med 2018;15:458-475. Copyright © 2018 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Erectile dysfunction in patients with chronic viral hepatitis: a systematic review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Fusco, Ferdinando; D'Anzeo, Gianluca; Rossi, Andrea; Sciorio, Carmine; Buonomo, Antonio Riccardo; d'Emmanuele di Villa Bianca, Roberta; Borgia, Guglielmo; Mirone, Vincenzo; Gentile, Ivan

    2013-12-01

    This article reviews the literature on epidemiology and pathogenetic factors of erectile dysfunction in patients with chronic viral hepatic (CVH) diseases in men and the potential implications for diagnosis and treatment. A search to identify original articles, reviews and any other article suitable for the purposes of this review was conducted by combining the following terms: erectile dysfunction and/or sexual dysfunction, chronic viral hepatitis, hepatitis B virus infection and hepatitis C virus infection. The results of this review have led to the following main observations: i) there is scarce documentation on the association between CVH and sexual dysfunction; ii) hormonal impairment seems to be a major component in the development of erectile dysfunction in CVH; however, published evidence concerning the contribution of other pathogenetic factors is rare and inconclusive and iii) available treatment options for CVH potentially contribute to the development of sexual dysfunction in these patients. Due to the scarce body of evidence, more research is needed to better clarify the mechanisms underlying the association between CVH and sexual dysfunction, the impact of therapy and associated comorbidities on sexual dysfunction and the role of pharmacological treatments in the management of these patients.

  2. Management of erectile dysfunction post-radical prostatectomy

    PubMed Central

    Saleh, Alan; Abboudi, Hamid; Ghazal-Aswad, MB; Mayer, Erik K; Vale, Justin A

    2015-01-01

    Radical prostatectomy is a commonly performed procedure for the treatment of localized prostate cancer. One of the long-term complications is erectile dysfunction. There is little consensus on the optimal management; however, it is agreed that treatment must be prompt to prevent fibrosis and increase oxygenation of penile tissue. It is vital that patient expectations are discussed, a realistic time frame of treatment provided, and treatment started as close to the prostatectomy as possible. Current treatment regimens rely on phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors as a first-line therapy, with vacuum erection devices and intraurethral suppositories of alprostadil as possible treatment combination options. With nonresponders to these therapies, intracavernosal injections are resorted to. As a final measure, patients undergo the highly invasive penile prosthesis implantation. There is no uniform, objective treatment program for erectile dysfunction post-radical prostatectomy. Management plans are based on poorly conducted and often underpowered studies in combination with physician and patient preferences. They involve the aforementioned drugs and treatment methods in different sequences and doses. Prospective treatments include dietary supplements and gene therapy, which have shown promise with there proposed mechanisms of improving erectile function but are yet to be applied successfully in human patients. PMID:25750901

  3. Tadalafil once daily and extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the management of patients with Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction: results from a prospective randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Palmieri, A; Imbimbo, C; Creta, M; Verze, P; Fusco, F; Mirone, V

    2012-04-01

    Extracorporeal shock wave therapy improves erectile function in patients with Peyronie's disease. However, erectile dysfunction still persists in many cases. We aimed to investigate the effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy plus tadalafil 5 mg once daily in the management of patients with Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction not previously treated. One hundred patients were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, controlled study. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either extracorporeal shock wave therapy alone for 4 weeks (n = 50) or extracorporeal shock wave therapy plus tadalafil 5 mg once daily for 4 weeks (n = 50). Main outcome measures were: erectile function (evaluated through the shortened version of the International Index of Erectile Function), pain during erection (evaluated through a Visual Analog Scale), plaque size, penile curvature and quality of life (evaluated through an internal questionnaire). Follow-up evaluations were performed after 12 and 24 weeks. In both groups, at 12 weeks follow-up, mean Visual Analog Scale score, mean International Index of Erectile Function score and mean quality of life score ameliorated significantly while mean plaque size and mean curvature degree were unchanged. Intergroup analysis revealed a significantly higher mean International Index of Erectile Function score and quality of life score in patients receiving the combination. After 24 weeks, intergroup analysis revealed a significantly higher mean International Index of Erectile Function score and mean quality of life score in patients that received extracorporeal shock wave therapy plus tadalafil. In conclusion extracorporeal shock wave therapy plus tadalafil 5 mg once daily may represent a valid conservative strategy for the management of patients with Peyronie's disease and erectile dysfunction. © 2011 The Authors. International Journal of Andrology © 2011 European Academy of Andrology.

  4. Evaluation of sexual function in young men with spina bifida and myelomeningocele using the International Index of Erectile Function.

    PubMed

    Gamé, Xavier; Moscovici, Jacques; Gamé, Laurence; Sarramon, Jean-Pierre; Rischmann, Pascal; Malavaud, Bernard

    2006-03-01

    To assess sexual function in young men with spina bifida and myelomeningocele. Between November 2003 and February 2004, a cross-sectional study was performed in 55 men older than 18 years of age who had been regularly followed up for myelomeningocele since childhood, between 1961 and 1985, in the Pediatric Internal Surgery Department. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire was mailed to each man. The response rate was 72.7%. Of the 40 men who replied, 16 (40%) had had sexual intercourse at least once during the previous month. These were the older men (age 31.9 +/- 5.7 years versus 27.7 +/- 5.5 years, P = 0.027). The IIEF scores for the whole group were erectile function 11.61 +/- 9.44, orgasmic function 3.53 +/- 3.86, sexual desire 6.94 +/- 2.4, intercourse satisfaction 3.7 +/- 4.81, and overall satisfaction 4.7 +/- 3.34. According to the classification of Cappelleri, of the 16 men who had had sexual intercourse during the previous month, 4 had no erectile dysfunction, 3 had mild, 4 mild to moderate, and 5 severe dysfunction. Erectile function was statistically related to the ability to maintain erections (mean IIEF score 4 and 5 for men with no erectile dysfunction versus a mean IIEF score of 4 and 5 for men with erectile dysfunction: 4.75 +/- 0.5 versus 2.00 +/- 1.32, P = 0.011 for IIEF score of 4 and 4.50 +/- 1.5 versus 3 +/- 2, P = 0.040 for IIEF score of 5). Young adult men with spina bifida and myelomeningocele begin sexual activity late. Moreover, 75% have erectile dysfunction that is related to difficulty in maintaining erections.

  5. Erectile dysfunction in older male stroke patients: correlation between side of hemiplegia and erectile function.

    PubMed

    Sikiru, Lamina; Shmaila, Hanif; Yusuf, Gagarawa Saidu

    2009-06-01

    This study was conducted to determine the effects of hemiplegia on erectile function in stroke patients. One hundred and five stroke patients grouped into left (61.78 +/- 7.79 years) and 55 right hemiplegic (62.11 +/- 9.32 years) and 40 age-matched controls (64.00 +/- 8.53 years). The International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire was used for data collection. One way analysis of variance and Spearman correlation tests were used in data analysis. Erectile function was significantly decreased in the both right (IIEF-5, 7.55 +/- 4.07) and left hemiplegic groups (IIEF-5, 10.40 +/- 5.70) compared with the control group (IIEF-5, 20.50 +/- 4.2 7) p < 0.05. Side of hemiplegia significantly correlated with erectile dysfunction at p < 0.01. Conclusively, stroke mostly affects erectile function of right hemiplegia.

  6. Vardenafil orodispersible tablet.

    PubMed

    Sanford, Mark

    2012-01-01

    Vardenafil orodispersible tablet (ODT) is a supralingual formulation of vardenafil that is available for the on-demand treatment of erectile dysfunction. The pharmacokinetics of vardenafil ODT are not equivalent to those of the vardenafil film-coated tablet in that the ODT formulation provides consistently greater vardenafil systemic exposure. Therefore, the two formulations are not interchangeable. The efficacy of on-demand vardenafil ODT 10 mg was established in the POTENT I and II studies, which were 6-week, randomized, double-blind, multinational trials in men with erectile dysfunction of at least 6 months duration. In both trials, vardenafil ODT improved erectile function significantly more than placebo, as indicated by International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function subscale scores at week 12 and overall erection success rates during treatment according to responses to questions 2 and 3 of the Sexual Encounter Profile (coprimary endpoints). In a pooled analysis of both trials, vardenafil ODT improved erectile function regardless of age, severity of erectile dysfunction at baseline or the presence or absence of underlying medical conditions. Vardenafil ODT was generally well tolerated in clinical trials, including in men aged ≥65 years, and adverse events were mostly mild or moderate in severity.

  7. Erectile Dysfunction Precedes Coronary Artery Endothelial Dysfunction in Rats Fed a High-Fat, High-Sucrose, Western Pattern Diet

    PubMed Central

    La Favor, Justin D.; Anderson, Ethan J.; Hickner, Robert C.; Wingard, Christopher J.

    2016-01-01

    Introduction It is suggested that erectile dysfunction (ED) may be an early risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Aim The goal of this study was to determine whether development of ED precedes the onset of coronary artery endothelial dysfunction in response to a Western diet (WD), thereby establishing whether the WD differentially impacts the endothelium in a time-dependent manner. Additionally, a goal was to determine if diet-induced ED is reversible with intracavernosal sepiapterin treatment. Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a WD for 4, 8, or 12 weeks, or a control diet for 8 weeks. Erectile function was evaluated by measuring the mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intracavernosal pressure (ICP) in response to electrical field stimulation of the cavernosal nerve near the major pelvic ganglion, in the absence and presence of sepiapterin. Coronary artery endothelial function was evaluated ex vivo with cumulative doses of acetylcholine (ACh) applied to segments of the left anterior descending coronary artery preconstricted with serotonin. Main Outcome Measures Erectile function was assessed as the ICP response to electrical field stimulation (EFS), normalized to MAP. Coronary artery endothelial function was assessed as the effective concentration producing 50% of a maximal response (EC50) of the ACh response. Results The ICP/MAP response to EFS was significantly attenuated following both 8 and 12 weeks of the WD compared with the control diet (P < 0.05). Sepiapterin treatment augmented the ICP/MAP response in all WD groups (P < 0.05). The coronary artery EC50 of the ACh response was not different from control following 4 or 8 weeks but was significantly elevated following 12 weeks of the WD (P < 0.01). Conclusions These data suggest that erectile function is reduced prior to coronary artery endothelial function in response to the WD. Improvement of erectile function with sepiapterin in WD rats indicates that nitric oxide synthase uncoupling is a key mechanism in diet-induced ED. PMID:23170997

  8. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study to assess the efficacy of tadalafil (Cialis[reg]) in the treatment of erectile dysfunction following three-dimensional conformal external-beam radiotherapy for prostatic carcinoma

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Incrocci, Luca; Slagter, Cleo; Slob, A. Koos

    2006-10-01

    Purpose: Erectile dysfunction after three-dimensional conformal external-beam radiotherapy (3DCRT) for prostatic carcinoma is reported in as many as 64% of those patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of the oral drug tadalafil (Cialis (registered) ) in patients with erectile dysfunction after radiotherapy for prostatic carcinoma. Methods and Materials: Patients (N = 358) who completed radiotherapy at least 12 months before the study were approached by mail. All patients had been treated by 3DCRT; 60 patients were included and entered a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study lasting 12 weeks. They received 20 mg of tadalafil or placebomore » for 6 weeks. Drug or placebo was taken on demand at patient's discretion, with no restrictions regarding the consumption of alcohol or food, at least once a week and no more than once daily. At 6 weeks patients crossed over to the alternative treatment. Data were collected using the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires. Side effects were also recorded. Results: Mean age at study entry was 69 years. All patients completed the study. For almost all questions of the IIEF questionnaire there was a significant increase in mean scores from baseline with tadalafil, but not with placebo. Sixty-seven percent of the patients reported an improvement of erectile function with tadalafil (placebo: 20%), and 48% reported successful intercourse with tadalafil (placebo: 9%) (p < 0.0001). Side effects were mild or moderate. Conclusions: Tadalafil is an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction after 3DCRT for prostatic carcinoma with successful intercourse reported in almost 50% of the patients, and it is well tolerated.« less

  9. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

    MedlinePlus

    ... Talking to Your Kids About VirginityTalking to Your Kids About Sex Home Diseases and Conditions Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Condition ... Well-Being Mental Health Sex and Birth Control Sex and Sexuality Birth Control ... and Toddlers Kids and Teens Pregnancy and Childbirth Women Men Seniors ...

  10. Efficacy of low-intensity shock wave therapy for erectile dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Angulo, J C; Arance, I; de Las Heras, M M; Meilán, E; Esquinas, C; Andrés, E M

    2017-10-01

    The low-intensity shockwave (LISW) therapy is a recently developed modality for treating erectile dysfunction. To assess the efficacy of LISW therapy for treating erectile dysfunction as described in the literature. Two independent reviewers identified studies eligible for a systematic review and meta-analysis of various sources written in English and Spanish, using the databases of PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. We excluded studies on Peyronie's disease. We employed the DerSimonian-Laird method for defining heterogeneity, calculating the grouped standard deviation of the mean (SDM). The primary objective of this review is to assess efficacy based on the change in the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) over baseline at 1 month from the start of treatment, both for the treatment arm and the placebo arm. The secondary objective is focused on analysing IIEF-EF at 3-6 months from the start of the therapy. The pooled data of 636 patients from 12 studies showed that treatment with LISW resulted in a significant increase in IIEF-EF at 1 month with respect to baseline (SDM, -2.92; P=.000), to a greater degree than placebo (SDM, -.99; P=.000). The IIEF-EF at 3-6 months for the treated patients was significantly greater than baseline (SDM, -2.78; P=.000). Only one study compared the efficacy of placebo at 3-6 months versus baseline (SDM, -9.14). The comparison between LISW and placebo favours active treatment (SDM, 2.53; P=.000) at 1 month. There are insufficient data in the literature to assess the response over placebo at 3-6 months. According to the literature, treatment with LISW for erectile dysfunction is effective, both in the short and medium term. LISW has been described as more effective than placebo in the short term. The long-term efficacy data are insufficient. More studies are needed to explain the role of this therapy according to specific causes of erectile dysfunction. Copyright © 2016 AEU. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  11. [Erectile dysfunction and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome].

    PubMed

    Zhuravlev, V N; Frank, M A; Gomzhin, A I

    2008-01-01

    Of 72 patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) 32 had erectile dysfunction (ED). OSAS patients with erectile dysfunction had hypogonadism in 24 cases, in 8 men testosterone level was normal. A polysomnographic investigation with monitoring of nocturnal spontaneous erections showed that 32 patients had severe sleep fragmentation with reduced or complete absence of REM and deep sleep phases. In nocturnal penile tumescencia quantitative and qualitative characteristics were abnormal suggesting organic nature of erectile dysfunction in these patients. Eight ED and OSAS patients with normal testosterone received standard OSAS therapy with administration of FDE-5 type inhibitors. Six months later improvement of the erectile function was observed in 6 patients. OSAS patients with hypogonadism were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 (n = 5) received CPAP therapy and group 2 (n = 19) received OSAS standard therapy. Group 2 was treated with inhibitors of FDE-5 type. Three months later improvement of erectile function was seen only in 8. Group 1 received the inhibitors and testosterone replacement. Three months later all 5 patients had no ED complaints, their testosterone was normal. It is recommended to perform monitoring of nocturnal spontaneous erections in the algorithm of examination of all men with OSAS. All patients with OSAS, ED and documented hypogonadism need testosterone replacement therapy if its level persists low despite adequate therapy of OSAS.

  12. Early Realignment Versus Delayed Urethroplasty in Management of Pelvic Fracture Urethral Injury: A Meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Firmanto, Rama; Irdam, Gampo A; Wahyudi, Irfan

    2016-04-01

    this meta-analysis study will evaluate the incidence of urethral stricture as a successfull parameter in the management of PFUI through early realignment, compared with delayed urethroplasty. Long-term complications such as erectile dysfunction and incontinence on both methods will also be evaluated. online literature was sourced from Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. The incidence of stricture was evaluated from the entire study group of ER and DU. Stricture of the urethra is diagnosed by the symptoms such as the obstruction that felt by the patient, uroflowmetry examination, and urine residual post micturition that supported by urethrography examination at regular interval. In some cases the incidence of stricture also diagnosed by urethroscopy. The patient is assessed as not having stricture when it is no longer needed to do urethral dilatation or advanced urethrotomy. The rate of incontinence was assessed subjectively from the patient's complaints. The erectile function assessed subjectively; decreased of tumesen's degree, reduced the duration of erection, and penetration failure diagnosed as erection dysfunction. The data were processed as dichotomy data to calculate the risk ratio using Review Manager 5.1. five relevant literatures reviewed in this study. The incidence of urethral strictures are statistically significant lower in early realignment group (RR=0.70, 95% CI 0.50-0.99, P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between both treatment groups on the incidence of erectile dysfunction (RR=0.72, 95% CI 0.39-1.34) nor the incidence of incontinence (RR=0.74, 95% CI 0.36-1.51). early realignment decrease the occurrence of stricture on PFUI treatment compared to delayed urethroplasty method. Between the two methos, the complications such as erectile dysfunction and incontinence; however, there was no significant difference.

  13. Evaluation and treatment of erectile dysfunction in the aging male: a mini-review.

    PubMed

    Albersen, Maarten; Orabi, Hazem; Lue, Tom F

    2012-01-01

    Before the 20th century, individuals often did not live beyond the reproductive years, and sexuality of the elderly was not an issue. However, in the current era it is known that as life expectancy improves, both men and women are seeking to preserve their sexuality into old age. While the appreciation of sexuality persists with aging, a decline in sexual activity is typically seen with, and can be attributed to both general health problems as well as specific sexual dysfunctions. Erectile dysfunction is the most frequently diagnosed sexual dysfunction in the older male population. This mini-review provides an overview of contemporary literature concerning epidemiology, pathophysiology, assessment and treatment of erectile dysfunction in the aging male. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  14. The Current Status of Stem-Cell Therapy in Erectile Dysfunction: A Review

    PubMed Central

    Reed-Maldonado, Amanda B

    2016-01-01

    Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that are capable of renewal and repair of tissue due to their capacity for division and differentiation. The purpose of this review is to describe recent advances in the use of stem cell (SC) therapy for male erectile dysfunction (ED). We performed a MEDLINE database search of all relevant articles regarding the use of SCs for ED. We present a concise summary of the scientific principles behind the usage of SC for ED. We discuss the different types of SCs, delivery methods, current pre-clinical literature, and published clinical trials. Four clinical trials employing SC for ED have been published. These articles are summarized in this review. All four report improvements in ED after SC therapy. SC therapy remains under investigation for the treatment of ED. It is reassuring that clinical trials thus far have reported positive effects on erectile function and few adverse events. Safety and methodical concerns about SC acquisition, preparation and delivery remain and require continued investigation prior to wide-spread application of these methods. PMID:28053944

  15. Brain structural network topological alterations of the left prefrontal and limbic cortex in psychogenic erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Chen, Jianhuai; Chen, Yun; Gao, Qingqiang; Chen, Guotao; Dai, Yutian; Yao, Zhijian; Lu, Qing

    2018-05-01

    Despite increasing understanding of the cerebral functional changes and structural abnormalities in erectile dysfunction, alterations in the topological organization of brain networks underlying psychogenic erectile dysfunction remain unclear. Here, based on the diffusion tensor image data of 25 patients and 26 healthy controls, we investigated the topological organization of brain structural networks and its correlations with the clinical variables using the graph theoretical analysis. Patients displayed a preserved overall small-world organization and exhibited a less connectivity strength in the left inferior frontal gyrus, amygdale and the right inferior temporal gyrus. Moreover, an abnormal hub pattern was observed in patients, which might disturb the information interactions of the remaining brain network. Additionally, the clustering coefficient of the left hippocampus was positively correlated with the duration of patients and the normalized betweenness centrality of the right anterior cingulate gyrus and the left calcarine fissure were negatively correlated with the sum scores of the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. These findings suggested that the damaged white matter and the abnormal hub distribution of the left prefrontal and limbic cortex might contribute to the pathogenesis of psychogenic erectile dysfunction and provided new insights into the understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of psychogenic erectile dysfunction.

  16. Effects of cigarette smoking on erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Kovac, J.R.; Labbate, C.; Ramasamy, R.; Tang, D.; Lipshultz, L.I.

    2015-01-01

    Summary Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality in the United States. Although public policies have resulted in a decreased number of new smokers, smoking rates remain stubbornly high in certain demographics with 20% of all American middle aged men smoking. In addition to the well-established harmful effects of smoking (i.e coronary artery disease and lung cancer), the past three decades have led to a compendium of evidence being compiled into the development of a relationship between cigarette smoking and erectile dysfunction. The main physiological mechanism that appears to be affected includes the nitric oxide signal transduction pathway. This review details the recent literature linking cigarette smoking to erectile dysfunction, epidemiological associations, dose-dependency and the effects of smoking cessation on improving erectile quality. PMID:25557907

  17. [Transcranial magneto- and electrostimulation in patients with obesity and erectile dysfunction].

    PubMed

    Ponomarenko, G N; Bin'iash, T G; Raĭgorodskiĭ, Iu M; Guliaev, A S; Shul'diakov, V A; Kiriliuk, A M; Vartanova, L Iu

    2009-01-01

    The objective of the present study was to evaluate therapeutic efficiency of transcranial magnetotherapy (TcMT) and electric stimulation (ES) included in the combined treatment of 143 patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and abdominal obesity. The majority of the patients had waist circumference over 102 cm. An AMO-ATOS complex was used to stimulate the hypothalamic region and other brain structures. Transdermal myostimulation of the abdominal and femoral regions was achieved with a Miovolna device. It was shown that both TcM and ES improved lipid metabolism and erectile function; moreover, they exerted hypotensive and sedative action. Specifically, the testosterone level in the patients increased by a mean of 27% compared with the pre-treatment values while the number of patients complaining of erectile dysfunction decreased by 31%.

  18. The Effect of Endovascular Revascularization of Common Iliac Artery Occlusions on Erectile Function

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gur, Serkan, E-mail: mserkangur@yahoo.com; Ozkan, Ugur; Onder, Hakan

    To determine the incidence of erectile dysfunction in patients with common iliac artery (CIA) occlusive disease and the effect of revascularization on erectile function using the sexual health inventory for males (SHIM) questionnaire. All patients (35 men; mean age 57 {+-} 5 years; range 42-67 years) were asked to recall their sexual function before and 1 month after iliac recanalization. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine variables effecting improvement of impotence. The incidence of impotence in patients with CIA occlusion was 74% (26 of 35) preoperatively. Overall 16 (46%) of 35 patients reported improved erectile function after iliacmore » recanalization. The rate of improvement of impotence was 61.5% (16 of 26 impotent patients). Sixteen patients (46%), including seven with normal erectile function before the procedure, had no change. Three patients (8%) reported deterioration of their sexual function, two of whom (6%) had normal erectile function before the procedure. The median SHIM score increased from 14 (range 4-25) before the procedure to 20 (range 1-25) after the procedure (P = 0.005). The type of recanalization, the age of the patients, and the length of occlusion were related to erectile function improvement in univariate analysis. However, these factors were not independent factors for improvement of erectile dysfunction in multivariate analysis (P > 0.05). Endovascular recanalization of CIA occlusions clearly improves sexual function. More than half of the patients with erectile dysfunction who underwent endovascular recanalization of the CIA experienced improvement.« less

  19. Sexual function after external-beam radiotherapy for prostate cancer: what do we know?

    PubMed

    Incrocci, Luca

    2006-02-01

    Quality of life in general and sexual functioning in particular have become very important in cancer patients. Due to modern surgical techniques, improved quality of drugs for chemotherapy and very modern radiation techniques, more patients can be successfully treated without largely compromising sexual functioning. One can assume that because of the life-threatening nature of cancer, sexual activity is not important to patients and their partners, but this is not true. Prostate cancer has become the most common non-skin malignant neoplasm in older men in Western countries. In this paper, we discuss the various methods used to evaluate erectile and sexual dysfunction and the definition of potency. Data on the etiology of erectile dysfunction after external-beam radiotherapy for prostate cancer is reviewed, and the literature is been summarized. Patients should be offered sexual counseling and informed about the availability of effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as sildenafil, intracavernosal injection, and vacuum devices. Cancer affects quality of life and sexual function. The challenge for oncologists is to address this with compassion.

  20. Investigation of erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Patel, D V; Halls, J; Patel, U

    2012-11-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) represents a common and debilitating condition with a wide range of organic and non-organic causes. Physical aetiologies can be divided into disorders affecting arterial inflow, the venous occlusion mechanism or the penile structure itself. Various imaging modalities can be utilised to investigate the physical causes of ED, but penile Doppler sonography (PDS) is the most informative technique, indicated in those patients with ED who do not respond to oral pharmacological agents (e.g. phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors). This review will examine the anatomical and physiological basis of penile erection, the method for performing PDS and features of specific causes of ED, and will also consider the alternative imaging modalities available.

  1. Modifying Risk Factors in the Management of Erectile Dysfunction: A Review

    PubMed Central

    DeLay, Kenneth J; Haney, Nora

    2016-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is prevalent among men and its presence is often an indicator of systemic disease. Risk factors for ED include cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), tobacco use, hyperlipidemia, hypogonadism, lower urinary tract symptoms, metabolic syndrome, and depression. Addressing the modifiable risk factors frequently improves a patient's overall health and increases lifespan. The literature suggests that smoking cessation, treatment of hyperlipidemia, and increasing physical activity will improve erectile function in many patients. How the treatment of DM, depression, and hypogonadism impacts erectile function is less clear. Clinicians need to be aware that certain antihypertensive agents can adversely impact erectile function. The treatment of men with ED needs to address the underlying risk factors to ameliorate the disease process. PMID:27574592

  2. [Assessment of sexual function in men with idiopathic Parkinson's disease using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF-15)].

    PubMed

    Roumiguié, M; Guillotreau, J; Castel-Lacanal, E; Malavaud, B; De Boissezon, X; Marque, P; Rischmann, P; Gamé, X

    2011-01-01

    to assess the sexual function in men with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. a cross-sectional study was performed in 35 men, mean age 68 ± 9 years, with idiopathic Parkinson's disease followed in a single urological department. The 15 questions International Index of the Erectile Function was sent by postal mail. the answer's rate was 42.9% (15 patients). The mean age of the responders was 68.7 ± 10.0 years. Mean duration of the disease was 10.4 ± 6.8 years. Sexual dysfunction was the second cause for consultation in urology. Despite a sustained sexual desire, patients had an altered sexual function with low erectile function, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction and total satisfaction scores. According to the Cappelleri's classification, the erectile dysfunction was severe in 54% of the cases and moderate in 26.6%. Age, institutionalization and overactive bladder symptoms were associated with erectile, orgasmic function and intercourse satisfaction alteration, sexual desire alteration, intercourse and global satisfaction alteration, respectively. men with idiopathic Parkinson's disease had a severe sexual dysfunction. The sexual desire was usually maintained but all the other domains were severely altered. 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  3. Resolution of erectile dysfunction after an andrological visit in a selected population of patients affected by psychogenic erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Cavallini, Giorgio

    2017-01-01

    The aim of this study was to ascertain whether some patients with psychogenic erectile dysfunction (PED) who chose psychotherapy spontaneously improved their sexual function immediately after diagnosis. Two hundred eighty-five patients with PED were retrospectively studied. Complete resolution of PED was analyzed regarding age, primary or secondary PED, marital status, domestic status, prevailing attitude of the female partner to the dysfunction, duration of their partnership, social status, duration of PED, International Index of Erectile Function score, and prevailing attitude of the patient after a diagnosis of PED. The data were analyzed using post-hoc tests. PED was resolved in 32.3% of the patients immediately after diagnosis. These patients were older, more frequently affected by secondary ED, more frequently living with their partner, and more frequently resigned or happy with the diagnosis of PED than the patients who did not resolve their PED. A nonchalant or cooperative female attitude to PED improved the possibility of PED resolution. The other variables did not influence PED resolution. Our data showed that a clear-cut diagnosis of psychogenic erectile deficiency and some psychosocial factors were critical for the management of some patients with PED.

  4. Intracavernous Delivery of a Designed Angiopoietin-1 Variant Rescues Erectile Function by Enhancing Endothelial Regeneration in the Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mouse

    PubMed Central

    Jin, Hai-Rong; Kim, Woo Jean; Song, Jae Sook; Piao, Shuguang; Choi, Min Ji; Tumurbaatar, Munkhbayar; Shin, Sun Hwa; Yin, Guo Nan; Koh, Gou Young; Ryu, Ji-Kan; Suh, Jun-Kyu

    2011-01-01

    OBJECTIVE Patients with diabetic erectile dysfunction often have severe endothelial dysfunction and respond poorly to oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors. We examined the effectiveness of the potent angiopoietin-1 (Ang1) variant, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP)-Ang1, in promoting cavernous endothelial regeneration and restoring erectile function in diabetic animals. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Four groups of mice were used: controls; streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice; STZ-induced diabetic mice treated with repeated intracavernous injections of PBS; and STZ-induced diabetic mice treated with COMP-Ang1 protein (days −3 and 0). Two and 4 weeks after treatment, we measured erectile function by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. The penis was harvested for histologic examinations, Western blot analysis, and cGMP quantification. We also performed a vascular permeability test. RESULTS Local delivery of the COMP-Ang1 protein significantly increased cavernous endothelial proliferation, endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS) phosphorylation, and cGMP expression compared with that in the untreated or PBS-treated STZ-induced diabetic group. The changes in the group that received COMP-Ang1 restored erectile function up to 4 weeks after treatment. Endothelial protective effects, such as marked decreases in the expression of p47phox and inducible NOS, in the generation of superoxide anion and nitrotyrosine, and in the number of apoptotic cells in the corpus cavernosum tissue, were noted in COMP-Ang1–treated STZ-induced diabetic mice. An intracavernous injection of COMP-Ang1 completely restored endothelial cell-cell junction proteins and decreased cavernous endothelial permeability. COMP-Ang1–induced promotion of cavernous angiogenesis and erectile function was abolished by the NOS inhibitor, N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, but not by the NADPH oxidase inhibitor, apocynin. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the concept of cavernous endothelial regeneration by use of the recombinant Ang1 protein as a curative therapy for diabetic erectile dysfunction. PMID:21270241

  5. Health care cost implications of sildenafil citrate.

    PubMed

    Miner, Martin

    2004-09-01

    As prescription drug expenditures increase, third-party payors are increasingly scrutinizing costs and reimbursement guidelines, such as for medications that treat chronic conditions that are not necessarily directly life threatening (i.e., obesity, nicotine addiction, and erectile dysfunction). To review the costs and consequences of pharmacy benefit reimbursement policies related to erectile dysfunction therapies, using sildenafil citrate as the case study. Data and references were found through searches of PubMed and Google. To meet the varied health needs of a defined population under reasonable resource constraints requires analysis of cost and of the economic and non-economic consequences of a treatment. Based on analysis of sildenafil data, oral therapy of erectile dysfunction provides substantial cost savings when compared with other treatment options and contributes insignificant overall costs to health plans. Regardless, health plans impose controls to limit reimbursement. Because erectile dysfunction is often a precursor to other conditions, such limitations could compromise detection and management of underlying disease (e.g., depressive, cardiovascular, and urogenital). Reimbursement restrictions may also decrease membership satisfaction and re-enrollment rates.

  6. Lifestyle modifications and erectile dysfunction: what can be expected?

    PubMed Central

    Maiorino, Maria Ida; Bellastella, Giuseppe; Esposito, Katherine

    2015-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common medical disorder whose prevalence is increasing worldwide. Modifiable risk factors for ED include smoking, lack of physical activity, wrong diets, overweight or obesity, metabolic syndrome, and excessive alcohol consumption. Quite interestingly, all these metabolic conditions are strongly associated with a pro-inflammatory state that results in endothelial dysfunction by decreasing the availability of nitric oxide (NO), which is the driving force of the blood genital flow. Lifestyle and nutrition have been recognized as central factors influencing both vascular NO production, testosterone levels, and erectile function. Moreover, it has also been suggested that lifestyle habits that decrease low-grade clinical inflammation may have a role in the improvement of erectile function. In clinical trials, lifestyle modifications were effective in ameliorating ED or restoring absent ED in people with obesity or metabolic syndrome. Therefore, promotion of healthful lifestyles would yield great benefits in reducing the burden of sexual dysfunction. Efforts, in order to implement educative strategies for healthy lifestyle, should be addressed. PMID:25248655

  7. Historical approach to the surgical treatment of erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Jara, J; Lledó, E

    2013-01-01

    Throughout human history, erectile dysfunction has represented one of the most omnipresent health problems. This has resulted in a search for solutions that, one after the other, have been shown to be fruitless. In this context, the emergence of possible surgical solutions at the start of the 20th century represented a revolution that, even then, would take several decades to demonstrate their effectiveness. We performed a literature review that shows the process in the development of potential surgical treatments for hormonal restoration for erectile dysfunction, followed by the sudden emergence of vascular surgery, with new anastomosis techniques, and in the future, the development of penile prosthetic implants as alternative treatments. The publication of results from erectile dysfunction surgery has been lagging for decades due to a lack of objectivity, given that sexual function is a topic restricted by patients' privacy. This situation has led to a reliance on results reported by various authors whose actual credibility could not be verified, with subsequent demonstrations showing that some of these results were not reproducible. This article reviews some of the most important milestones in the progress of surgeries designed to treat erectile dysfunction. The achievements and apparent failures provide a reason for reflection on how we far we have come and how far we can go in the near future. Copyright © 2012 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  8. Sexual dysfunction and male infertility.

    PubMed

    Lotti, Francesco; Maggi, Mario

    2018-05-01

    Infertility affects up to 12% of all men, and sexual dysfunction occurs frequently in men of reproductive age, causing infertility in some instances. In infertile men, hypoactive sexual desire and lack of sexual satisfaction are the most prevalent types of sexual dysfunction, ranging from 8.9% to 68.7%. Erectile dysfunction and/or premature ejaculation, evaluated with validated tools, have a prevalence of one in six infertile men, and orgasmic dysfunction has a prevalence of one in ten infertile men. In addition, infertile men can experience a heavy psychological burden. Infertility and its associated psychological concerns can underlie sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, general health perturbations can lead to male infertility and/or sexual dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction and male infertility are considered proxies for general health, the former underlying cardiovascular disorders and the latter cancerous and noncancerous conditions. The concept that erectile dysfunction in infertile men might be an early marker of poor general health is emerging. Finally, medications used for general health problems can cause sperm abnormalities and sexual dysfunction. The treatment of some causes of male infertility might improve semen quality and reverse infertility-related sexual dysfunction. In infertile men, an investigation of sexual, general, and psychological health status is advisable to improve reproductive problems and general health.

  9. Exercise training improves the defective centrally mediated erectile responses in rats with type I diabetes.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Hong; Mayhan, William G; Patel, Kaushik P

    2011-11-01

    Erectile dysfunction is a serious and common complication of diabetes mellitus. Apart from the peripheral actions, central mechanisms are also responsible for the penile erection. The goal of the present study was to determine the impact of exercise training (ExT) on the centrally mediated erectile dysfunction in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type I diabetic (T1D) rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with STZ to induce diabetes mellitus. Three weeks after STZ or vehicle injections, rats were assigned to either ExT (treadmill running for 3-4 weeks) or sedentary groups to produce four experimental groups: control + sedentary, T1D + sedentary, control + ExT, and T1D + ExT. After 3-4 weeks ExT, central N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) or sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced penile erectile responses were measured. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus was measured by using histochemistry, real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot approaches. In rats with T1D, ExT significantly improved the blunted erectile response, and the intracavernous pressure changes to NMDA (50 ng) microinjection within the PVN (T1D + ExT: 3.0 ± 0.6 penile erection/rat; T1D + sedentary: 0.5 ± 0.3 penile erection/rat within 20 minutes, P < 0.05). ExT improved erectile dysfunction induced by central administration of exogenous nitric oxide (NO) donor, SNP in T1D rats. Other behavior responses including yawning and stretching, induced by central NMDA and SNP microinjection were also significantly increased in T1D rats after ExT. Furthermore, we found that ExT restored the nNOS mRNA and protein expression in the PVN in T1D rats. These results suggest that ExT may have beneficial effects on the erectile dysfunction in diabetes through improvement of NO bioavailability within the PVN. Thus, ExT may be used as therapeutic modality to up-regulate nNOS within the PVN and improve the central component of the erectile dysfunction in diabetes mellitus. © 2011 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  10. Focus on phosphodiesterase inhibitors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in older men.

    PubMed

    Lee, Mary

    2011-11-01

    Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDEIs) are the drugs of choice for the medical management of erectile dysfunction independent of the etiology of the disorder. This review focuses on specific aspects of clinical use of PDEIs in older men with erectile dysfunction. An electronic search of MEDLINE was conducted for articles published between January 1990 and January 2011 using the terms erectile dysfunction and PDEIs and limited to articles in English, humans, and males aged ≥45 years. The search was also conducted in EMBASE using the same search criteria for literature indexed between 1990 and 2010. A total of 1341 articles were identified. Of these, ∼91 were selected for this review. Sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil are considered equally effective for erectile dysfunction, but they differ in some ways. Tadalafil's 36-hour duration of action allows for repeated sexual intercourse without the need to take additional medication in some patients, which is distinctly different from the shorter-acting sildenafil and vardenafil. Unlike tadalafil, the rate and extent of oral absorption of sildenafil and vardenafil are reduced by consumption of high-fat meals. Although headache, flushing, and rhinitis occur with all 3 PDEIs, cyanopsia is more common with sildenafil and vardenafil, and back pain is more common with tadalafil. Approximately 40% to 50% of patients who initially fail to respond to PDEIs can be salvaged with education and up-titration of dosing. PDEIs can be used in addition to antihypertensive medications in patients with well-controlled essential hypertension without producing clinically significant hypotension. Use of PDEIs in patients with cardiovascular disease is guided by the recommendations of the Second Princeton Consensus Conference. For the management of lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia, PDEIs may reduce obstructive voiding symptoms, but they do not increase urinary flow rate. PDEIs are effective for erectile dysfunction and well tolerated in older men. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Small-fibre neuropathy in men with type 1 diabetes and erectile dysfunction: a cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Azmi, Shazli; Ferdousi, Maryam; Alam, Uazman; Petropoulos, Ioannis N; Ponirakis, Georgios; Marshall, Andrew; Asghar, Omar; Fadavi, Hassan; Jones, Wendy; Tavakoli, Mitra; Boulton, Andrew J M; Jeziorska, Maria; Soran, Handrean; Efron, Nathan; Malik, Rayaz A

    2017-06-01

    The aim of this study was to identify the contribution of small- and large-fibre neuropathy to erectile dysfunction in men with type 1 diabetes mellitus. A total of 70 participants (29 without and 41 with erectile dysfunction) with type 1 diabetes and 34 age-matched control participants underwent a comprehensive assessment of large- and small-fibre neuropathy. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction in participants with type 1 diabetes was 58.6%. After adjusting for age, participants with type 1 diabetes and erectile dysfunction had a significantly higher score on the Neuropathy Symptom Profile (mean ± SEM 5.3 ± 0.9 vs 1.8 ± 1.2, p = 0.03), a higher vibration perception threshold (18.3 ± 1.9 vs 10.7 ± 2.4 V, p = 0.02), and a lower sural nerve amplitude (5.0 ± 1.1 vs 11.7 ± 1.5 mV, p = 0.002), peroneal nerve amplitude (2.1 ± 0.4 vs 4.7 ± 0.5 mV, p < 0.001) and peroneal nerve conduction velocity (34.8 ± 1.5 vs 41.9 ± 2.0 m/s, p = 0.01) compared with those without erectile dysfunction. There was also evidence of a marked small-fibre neuropathy with an impaired cold threshold (19.7 ± 1.4°C vs 27.3 ± 1.8°C, p = 0.003), warm threshold (42.9 ± 0.8°C vs 39.0 ± 0.9°C, p = 0.005) and heart rate variability (21.5 ± 3.1 vs 30.0 ± 3.7 beats/min, p = 0.001) and reduced intraepidermal nerve fibre density (2.8 ± 0.7 vs 5.9 ± 0.7/mm, p = 0.008), corneal nerve fibre density (12.6 ± 1.5 vs 23.9 ± 2.0/mm 2 , p < 0.001), corneal nerve branch density (12.7 ± 2.5 vs 31.6 ± 3.3/mm 2 , p < 0.001) and corneal nerve fibre length (8.3 ± 0.7 vs 14.5 ± 1.0 mm/mm 2 , p < 0.001) in participants with type 1 diabetes and erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction correlated significantly with measures of both large- and small-fibre neuropathy. Small-fibre neuropathy is prominent in patients with type 1 diabetes, and is associated with erectile dysfunction and can be objectively quantified using corneal confocal microscopy. This may allow the identification of patients who are less likely to respond to conventional therapies such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors.

  12. Erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation: interrelationships and psychosexual factors.

    PubMed

    Brody, Stuart; Weiss, Petr

    2015-02-01

    Both erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) impair the quality of sexual intercourse for both men and their female partners. This study aims to examine with a large representative sample the interrelationships of measures of ED, PE, typical intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT), men's perceived relationship quality with their mother, and age of first being in love. In this cross-sectional study, a nationally representative sample of 960 Czech coitally experienced men (aged 15-84), provided age, International Index of Erectile Function 5-item (IIEF-5), Index of Premature Ejaculation (IPE) scores, IELT, rating of relationship with their mother, and age at first being in love. Correlations, partial correlations adjusting for age, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), and multiple regression statistical methods were used. IIEF-5, IPE, and IELT were significantly intercorrelated (IIEF-5 and IPE: r=0.64). Better IIEF-5 scores were associated with younger age at first (and ever) being in love. Poorer IPE score, shorter IELT, and mild-moderate ED were associated with poorer perceived mother relationship (which was also associated with first being in love at an older age). Multiple regression analyses revealed that: (i) greater IELT was associated with better erectile function and better mother relationship, but not with age; and (ii) IELT of <1 minute was associated with poorer perceived mother relationship and poorer IIEF-5, but marginally with age. History of homosexual activity was unrelated to IIEF-5, IPE, IELT, and perceived mother relationship scores. The findings suggest that degrees of ED and PE are often comorbid, and both ED and PE are associated with less favorable early experiences with women. Brody S and Weiss P. Erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation: Interrelationships and psychosexual factors. J Sex Med 2015;12:398-404. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  13. [Penile dimensions in type 2 diabetes].

    PubMed

    Belousov, I I; Kogan, M I; Ibishev, H S; Vorobyev, S V; Khripun, I A; Gusova, Z R

    2015-12-01

    The current literature provides a wide range of publications on the anthropometry of the penis specifying the relationship between penile dimensions and sex hormones, weight, height and erectile function. But most of the studies involved healthy volunteers or young patients with erectile dysfunction. Our study was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes. Penile measurements obtained in the present study were compared those of the average Russian man. The patients were divided into groups with preserved and impaired erectile function. Erectile function was also studied relative to the variability of penile dimensions. The effect of DM duration on erectile function was defined. Comparative analysis revealed the relationship between penile anatomical dimensions and erectile function. We studied the effect of type 2 diabetes on the anatomical dimensions and elasticity of the penis, established the relationship between penile dimensions and elasticity of the penis. The correlation between the severity of erectile dysfunction and serum testosterone levels on one side, and penile dimensions on the other was found. The effect of penile dimensions on erectile function in DM patients was also examined. Determining penile dimensions and their variability due to various pathological conditions or processes, may eventually lead to better result of ED management.

  14. Pyrano-isoflavones with erectile-dysfunction activity from Eriosema kraussianum.

    PubMed

    Drewes, Siegfried E; Horn, Marion M; Munro, Orde Q; Dhlamini, Jabu T B; Meyer, J J Marion; Rakuambo, N Christopher

    2002-04-01

    Five pyrano-isoflavones have been isolated from the rootstock of Eriosema kraussianum N. E. Br (Papilionaceae). Spectral data and single crystal X-ray analyses were used for structural elucidation. The most active of the compounds had an activity of 75% of that found in Viagra in the erectile dysfunction test on rabbit penile smooth muscle.

  15. [Epidemiology of erectile dysfunction. Risk factors].

    PubMed

    Castro, Rafael Prieto; Hernández, Pablo Campos; Casilda, Rafael Robles; García, Jesús Ruíz; Tapia, María José Requena

    2010-10-01

    In 1993 the NIH (National Institute of Health) Consensus Conference on Impotence defined erectile dysfunction as the permanent incompetence to start or maintain an erection enough to enable satisfactory sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a frequent disorder that affects negatively quality of life of males suffering it. Its prevalence varies between different countries, cultures and races. The first population studies published date from early 90's and still keep their validity. All of them show the influence of age on prevalence of ED, as well as its close relationship with cardiovascular diseases. Depending on the definition used and study design prevalence varies from 10 to 52%, mainly in men between 40-70 years, with an incidence in western countries between 25-30 new cases per 1000 inhabitants year.

  16. Nebivolol dilates human penile arteries and reverses erectile dysfunction in diabetic rats through enhancement of nitric oxide signaling.

    PubMed

    Angulo, Javier; Wright, Harold M; Cuevas, Pedro; González-Corrochano, Rocío; Fernández, Argentina; Cuevas, Begoña; La Fuente, José M; Gupta, Sandeep; Sáenz de Tejada, Iñigo

    2010-08-01

    Traditional beta-blockers have sometimes been associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). Nebivolol is a cardioselective β(1)-adrenoceptor antagonist that promotes vasodilation through a nitric oxide (NO)-dependent mechanism. We evaluated the effects of nebivolol on the NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway, on erectile function and dysfunction, and in human penile vascular tissues. Erectile response to cavernosal nerve electrical stimulation in control and diabetes-induced ED rats were evaluated, along with serum nitrite/nitrate (NOx) concentration and plasma/tissue cGMP levels. Endothelium-dependent and sildenafil-induced relaxation of isolated human corpus cavernosum (HCC) and human penile resistance arteries (HPRA) were also determined. The effects of nebivolol on erectile function and dysfunction and on NO/cGMP-mediated responses. Treatment with nebivolol significantly potentiated erectile response in control rats, regardless of its effects on blood pressure. Nebivolol increased NOx and plasma cGMP by 3-fold and 2.75-fold, respectively, and significantly augmented the elevation of plasma cGMP produced by sildenafil. Nebivolol enhanced endothelium-dependent and sildenafil-induced relaxations of HCC tissue, and produced endothelium-dependent vasodilation of HPRA. Nebivolol, but not atenolol, significantly improved erectile response in diabetic rats (51.6%, 53.2%, and 87.1% of response at 3 Hz in nondiabetic rats, for vehicle-treated, atenolol-treated, and nebivolol-treated diabetic rats, respectively); after sildenafil administration, ED was completely reversed in nebivolol-treated diabetic rats (69.6% and 112% for diabetic rats treated with sildenafil and nebivolol plus sildenafil, respectively). Accordingly, nebivolol restored systemic NOx levels and cGMP content in penile tissue from these animals. Nebivolol in vivo activated the NO/cGMP pathway, enhanced erectile response and reversed ED in diabetic rats. Moreover, nebivolol in vitro potentiated NO/cGMP-mediated relaxation of human erectile tissues. These effects may account for the low incidence of ED in nebivolol-treated hypertensive patients. Nebivolol therefore may have utility in the treatment of ED, particularly ED associated with diabetes. © 2010 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  17. Reduction of Racial Disparities in Prostate Cancer

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2005-12-01

    erectile dysfunction , and female sexual dysfunction ). Wherever possible, the questions and scales employed on BACH were selected from published...Methods. A racially and ethnically diverse community-based survey of adults aged 30-79 years in Boston, Massachusetts. The BACH survey has...recruited adults in three racial/ethnic groups: Latino, African American, and White using a stratified cluster sample. The target sample size is equally

  18. Role of Nanotechnology in Erectile Dysfunction Treatment.

    PubMed

    Wang, Alice Y; Podlasek, Carol A

    2017-01-01

    The biological importance of nanotechnology-based delivery vehicles for in vivo tissue regeneration is gaining acceptance by the medical community; however, its relevance and incorporation into the treatment of sexual dysfunction are evolving and have not been well evaluated. To provide scientific evidence examining the use of state-of-the-art nanotechnology-based delivery methodology in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in animal models and in patients. This review assessed the current basic science literature examining the role of nanotechnology-based delivery vehicles in the development of potential ED therapies. There are four primary areas where nanotechnology has been applied for ED treatment: (i) topical delivery of drugs for on-demand erectile function, (ii) injectable gels into the penis to prevent morphologic changes after prostatectomy, (iii) hydrogels to promote cavernous nerve regeneration or neuroprotection, and (iv) encapsulation of drugs to increase erectile function (primarily of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors). Basic science studies provide evidence for a significant and evolving role for nanotechnology in the development of therapies for ED and suggest that properly administered nano-based therapies might be advantageous for treating male sexual dysfunction. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Does penile rehabilitation have a role in the treatment of erectile dysfunction following radical prostatectomy?

    PubMed Central

    Blecher, Gideon; Almekaty, Khaled; Kalejaiye, Odunayo; Minhas, Suks

    2017-01-01

    In men undergoing radical treatment for prostate cancer, erectile function is one of the most important health-related quality-of-life outcomes influencing patient choice in treatment. Penile rehabilitation has emerged as a therapeutic measure to prevent erectile dysfunction and expedite return of erectile function after radical prostatectomy. Penile rehabilitation involves a program designed to increase the likelihood of return to baseline-level erectile function, as opposed to treatment, which implies the therapeutic treatment of symptoms, a key component of post–radical prostatectomy management. Several pathological theories form the basis for rehabilitation, and a plethora of treatments are currently in widespread use. However, whilst there is some evidence supporting the concept of penile rehabilitation from animal studies, randomised controlled trials are contradictory in outcomes. Similarly, urological guidelines are conflicted in terms of recommendations. Furthermore, it is clear that in spite of the lack of evidence for the role of penile rehabilitation, many urologists continue to employ some form of rehabilitation in their patients after radical prostatectomy. This is a significant burden to health resources in public-funded health economies, and no effective cost-benefit analysis has been undertaken to support this practice. Thus, further research is warranted to provide both scientific and clinical evidence for this contemporary practice and the development of preventative strategies in treating erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy. PMID:29152231

  20. Does penile rehabilitation have a role in the treatment of erectile dysfunction following radical prostatectomy?

    PubMed

    Blecher, Gideon; Almekaty, Khaled; Kalejaiye, Odunayo; Minhas, Suks

    2017-01-01

    In men undergoing radical treatment for prostate cancer, erectile function is one of the most important health-related quality-of-life outcomes influencing patient choice in treatment. Penile rehabilitation has emerged as a therapeutic measure to prevent erectile dysfunction and expedite return of erectile function after radical prostatectomy. Penile rehabilitation involves a program designed to increase the likelihood of return to baseline-level erectile function, as opposed to treatment, which implies the therapeutic treatment of symptoms, a key component of post-radical prostatectomy management. Several pathological theories form the basis for rehabilitation, and a plethora of treatments are currently in widespread use. However, whilst there is some evidence supporting the concept of penile rehabilitation from animal studies, randomised controlled trials are contradictory in outcomes. Similarly, urological guidelines are conflicted in terms of recommendations. Furthermore, it is clear that in spite of the lack of evidence for the role of penile rehabilitation, many urologists continue to employ some form of rehabilitation in their patients after radical prostatectomy. This is a significant burden to health resources in public-funded health economies, and no effective cost-benefit analysis has been undertaken to support this practice. Thus, further research is warranted to provide both scientific and clinical evidence for this contemporary practice and the development of preventative strategies in treating erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy.

  1. Daily tadalafil for the chronic phase of stuttering priapism: a case report.

    PubMed

    Massenio, Paolo; D'Altilia, Nicola; Sanguedolce, Francesca; Carrieri, Giuseppe; Cormio, Luigi

    2018-05-31

    Recurrent (stuttering) ischemic priapism is a challenging clinical condition. Frequent recurrences result in frequent hospital admissions whereas treatment with a shunting procedure often results in erectile dysfunction. A 22-year-old man with stuttering idiopathic priapism developed erectile dysfunction (IIEF-5 score 12) following a Winter's shunt; he was given tadalafil, 5 mg/daily, for 6 months. This treatment resulted in progressive restoration of erectile function in the 6 months following the shunt as well as in preventing recurrence of priapic episodes over a 24-month follow-up. This is the first report in literature of chronic treatment of stuttering priapism with a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor being able not only to prevent recurrent priapic episodes but also to restore erectile function following a Winter's shunt.

  2. Centrally Mediated Erectile Dysfunction in Rats with Type 1 Diabetes: Role of Angiotensin II and Superoxide

    PubMed Central

    Zheng, Hong; Liu, Xuefei; Patel, Kaushik P.

    2015-01-01

    Introduction Erectile dysfunction is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus. Apart from the peripheral actions, central mechanisms are also responsible for penile erection. Aim To determine the contribution of angiotensin (ANG) II in the dysfunction of central N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)-nitric oxide (NO)-induced erectile responses in streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic (T1D) rats. Methods Three weeks after streptozotocin injections, rats were randomly treated with the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor-enalapril, or the ANG II type 1 receptor blocker, losartan, or the superoxide dismutase mimetic, tempol or vehicle via chronic intracerebroventricular infusion by osmotic mini-pump for 2 weeks. Main Outcome Measure Central NMDA receptor stimulation or the administration of the NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced penile erectile responses and concurrent behavioral responses were monitored in conscious rats. Results Two weeks of enalapril, losartan or tempol treatment significantly improved the erectile responses to central microinjection of both NMDA and SNP in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of conscious T1D rats (NMDA responses – T1D+enalapril: 1.7 ± 0.6, T1D+losartan: 2.0 ± 0.3, T1D+tempol: 2.0 ± 0.6 vs. T1D+vehicle: 0.6 ± 0.3 penile erections/rat in the first 20 min, P < 0.05; SNP responses – T1D+enalapril: 0.9 ± 0.3, T1D+losartan: 1.3 ± 0.3, T1D+tempol: 1.4 ± 0.4 vs. T1D+vehicle: 0.4 ± 0.2 penile erections/rat in the first 20 min, P < 0.05). Concurrent behavioral responses including yawning and stretching, induced by central NMDA and SNP microinjections were also significantly increased in T1D rats after enalapril, losartan or tempol treatments. Neuronal NO synthase expression within the PVN was also significantly increased and superoxide production was reduced in T1D rats after these treatments. Conclusions These data strongly support the contention that enhanced ANG II mechanism/s within the PVN of T1D rats contributes to the dysfunction of central NMDA-induced erectile responses in T1D rats via stimulation of superoxide. PMID:23841890

  3. Bilateral Cavernous Nerve Crush Injury in the Rat Model: A Comparative Review of Pharmacologic Interventions.

    PubMed

    Haney, Nora M; Nguyen, Hoang M T; Honda, Matthew; Abdel-Mageed, Asim B; Hellstrom, Wayne J G

    2018-04-01

    It is common for men to develop erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy. The anatomy of the rat allows the cavernous nerve (CN) to be identified, dissected, and injured in a controlled fashion. Therefore, bilateral CN injury (BCNI) in the rat model is routinely used to study post-prostatectomy erectile dysfunction. To compare and contrast the available literature on pharmacologic intervention after BCNI in the rat. A literature search was performed on PubMed for cavernous nerve and injury and erectile dysfunction and rat. Only articles with BCNI and pharmacologic intervention that could be grouped into categories of immune modulation, growth factor therapy, receptor kinase inhibition, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibition, and anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic interventions were included. To assess outcomes of pharmaceutical intervention on erectile function recovery after BCNI in the rat model. The ratio of maximum intracavernous pressure to mean arterial pressure was the main outcome measure chosen for this analysis. All interventions improved erectile function recovery after BCNI based on the ratio of maximum intracavernous pressure to mean arterial pressure results. Additional end-point analysis examined the corpus cavernosa and/or the major pelvic ganglion and CN. There was extreme heterogeneity within the literature, making accurate comparisons between crush injury and therapeutic interventions difficult. BCNI in the rat is the accepted animal model used to study nerve-sparing post-prostatectomy erectile dysfunction. However, an important limitation is extreme variability. Efforts should be made to decrease this variability and increase the translational utility toward clinical trials in humans. Haney NM, Nguyen HMT, Honda M, et al. Bilateral Cavernous Nerve Crush Injury in the Rat Model: A Comparative Review of Pharmacologic Interventions. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:234-241. Copyright © 2017 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Meta-analysis of Results of Testosterone Therapy on Sexual Function Based on International Index of Erectile Function Scores.

    PubMed

    Corona, Giovanni; Rastrelli, Giulia; Morgentaler, Abraham; Sforza, Alessandra; Mannucci, Edoardo; Maggi, Mario

    2017-12-01

    The interpretation of available clinical evidence related to the effect of testosterone (T) treatment (TTh) on sexual function has been inconsistent, in part due to the use of different and self-reported measures to assess outcomes. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is the most frequently used validated tool to assess male sexual function. To perform a meta-analysis of available data evaluating the effect of TTh on male sexual function using IIEF as the primary outcome. An extensive Medline, Embase, and Cochrane search was performed including all placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials enrolling men comparing the effect of TTh on sexual function. Out of 137 retrieved articles, 14 were included in the study enrolling 2298 participants, with a mean follow-up of 40.1 wk and mean age of 60.2±6.5 yr. Using IIEF-erectile function domain (IIEF-EFD) as the outcome, we found that TTh significantly improved erectile function compared with placebo (mean difference=2.31 [1.41;3.22] IIEF-EFD score, p<0.0001). Patients with more severe hypogonadism (total T<8 nmol/l) reported greater changes in final IIEF-EFD score when compared with those with a milder T deficiency (total T<12 nmol/l; 1.47 [0.90;2.03] and 2.95 [1.86;4.03] for total T<12 nmol/l and <8 nmol/l, respectively, Q=5.61, p=0.02). The magnitude of the effect was lower in the presence of metabolic derangements, such as diabetes and obesity. Other aspects of sexual function, as evaluated by IIEF subdomains, were also improved with TTh including libido, intercourse satisfaction, orgasm, and overall sexual satisfaction. TTh significantly improves erectile function and other sexual parameters as measured by IIEF in hypogonadal men. These results argue that sexual dysfunction should be considered a hallmark manifestation of T deficiency, since those symptoms can be significantly improved with normalization of serum T. In addition, these results suggest that TTh alone may be considered a reasonable treatment for hypogonadal men with milder degrees of erectile dysfunction, whereas the addition of other treatments, such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, may be more appropriate for men with more severe erectile dysfunction. We investigated the effect of testosterone treatment on sexual function by performing a meta-analysis of all available studies that used the most frequently used assessment tool, the International Index of Erectile Function. We found that testosterone treatment significantly improves erectile dysfunction, as well as other aspects of sexual function, in men with testosterone deficiency. This treatment may be all that is required for hypogonadal men with milder erectile dysfunction; however, additional treatments may be necessary in more severe cases. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  5. Sexual Function in Males After Radiotherapy for Rectal Cancer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bruheim, Kjersti, E-mail: Kjersti.bruheim@medisin.uio.n; Guren, Marianne G.; Dahl, Alv A.

    Purpose: Knowledge of sexual problems after pre- or postoperative radiotherapy (RT) with 50 Gy for rectal cancer is limited. In this study, we aimed to compare self-rated sexual functioning in irradiated (RT+) and nonirradiated (RT-) male patients at least 2 years after surgery for rectal cancer. Methods and Materials: Patients diagnosed with rectal cancer from 1993 to 2003 were identified from the Norwegian Rectal Cancer Registry. Male patients without recurrence at the time of the study. The International Index of Erectile Function, a self-rated instrument, was used to assess sexual functioning, and serum levels of serum testosterone were measured. Results:more » Questionnaires were returned from 241 patients a median of 4.5 years after surgery. The median age was 67 years at survey. RT+ patients (n = 108) had significantly poorer scores for erectile function, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction with sex life compared with RT- patients (n = 133). In multiple age-adjusted analysis, the odds ratio for moderate-severe erectile dysfunction in RT+ patients was 7.3 compared with RT- patients (p <0.001). Furthermore, erectile dysfunction of this degree was associated with low serum testosterone (p = 0.01). Conclusion: RT for rectal cancer is associated with significant long-term effects on sexual function in males.« less

  6. Effect of tadalafil 5mg daily treatment on the ejaculatory times, lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile function in patients with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Karabakan, Mehmet; Keskin, Ercument; Akdemir, Serkan; Bozkurt, Aliseydi

    2017-01-01

    To investigate the effect of a 5mg daily tadalafil treatment on the ejaculation time, erectile function and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients with erectile dysfunction. A total of 60 patients diagnosed with erectile dysfunction were retrospectively evaluated using the international index of erectile function questionnaire-5 (IIEF-5), intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) and international prostate symptoms scores (IPSS). After the patients were treated with 5mg tadalafil once a day for three months, their erection, ejaculation and LUTS were assessed again. The fasting levels of blood glucose, total testosterone, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, highdensity lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol were measured. The independentsamples t-test was used to compare the pre- and post-treatment scores of the patients. The mean age of the 60 participants was 50.4±7.9 and the mean baseline serum total testosterone, total cholesterol, and fasting blood sugar were 444.6±178.6ng dL-1, 188.7±29.6mg/dL-1,104 (80-360) mg dL-1, respectively. The mean baseline scores were 2.2±1.4 min for IELT, 9.5±3.7 for IIEF-5 and 14.1±4.5 for IPSS. Following the three-month daily 5mg tadalafil treatment, the scores were found to be 3.4±1.9 min, 16.1±4.7, and 10.4±3.8 for IELT, IIEF and IPSS, respectively. When the baseline and post-treatment scores were compared, a statistically significant increase was observed in the IELTs and IIEF-5 values whereas there was a significant decrease in IPSS (p<0.01). A daily dose of 5mg tadalafil can be safely used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and LUTS, that prolongs the ejaculatory latency time. Copyright® by the International Brazilian Journal of Urology.

  7. A phase 3, placebo controlled study of the safety and efficacy of avanafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction after nerve sparing radical prostatectomy.

    PubMed

    Mulhall, John P; Burnett, Arthur L; Wang, Run; McVary, Kevin T; Moul, Judd W; Bowden, Charles H; DiDonato, Karen; Shih, Winnie; Day, Wesley W

    2013-06-01

    We evaluated the safety and efficacy of 100 and 200 mg avanafil for the treatment of adult males with erectile dysfunction after bilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy. This was a double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel group, phase 3 study in males age 18 to 70 years with a history of erectile dysfunction of 6 months or more after bilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy. Patients were randomized to 100 or 200 mg avanafil or placebo (taken 30 minutes before sexual activity) for 12 weeks. Primary end points included successful vaginal insertion (Sexual Encounter Profile [SEP] question 2), successful intercourse (SEP3) and change in score on the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) questionnaire. A total of 298 patients were randomized and 84.6% completed the study. At baseline 16.1% were age 65 years or older and 71.5% had severe erectile dysfunction (mean overall IIEF-EF domain score 9.2). After 12 weeks there were significantly greater increases in SEP2 and SEP3 and change in mean IIEF-EF domain score with 100 and 200 mg avanafil vs placebo (p <0.01). Following dosing with avanafil 36.4% (28 of 77) of sexual attempts (SEP3) at 15 minutes or less were successful vs 4.5% (2 of 44) for placebo (p <0.01). Avanafil was generally well tolerated. No serious adverse events were reported and fewer than 2% of patients discontinued the study due to an adverse event. Avanafil in 100 and 200 mg doses was effective and well tolerated in improving erectile function after prostatectomy. Results suggest a rapid onset of action and sustained duration of effect, with all 3 primary end points being achieved at both dose levels. Copyright © 2013 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Health-Related Quality of Life in Men with Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Litwin, Mark S; Nied, Robert J; Dhanani, Nasreen

    1998-01-01

    OBJECTIVE To assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in men with erectile dysfunction. DESIGN Descriptive survey with general and disease-specific measures. The instrument contained three established, validated HRQOL measures, a validated comorbidity checklist, and sociodemographics. The RAND 36-Item Health Survey 1.0 (SF-36) was used to assess general HRQOL. Sexual function and sexual bother were assessed using the UCLA Prostate Cancer Index. The marital interaction scale from the Cancer Rehabilitation Evaluation System Short Form (CARES-SF) was used to assess each patient's relationship with his sexual partner. SETTING Urology clinics at a university medical center and the affiliated Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-five (67%) of 54 consecutive university patients presenting for erectile dysfunction and 22 (42%) of 52 VA patients who were awaiting a previously prescribed vacuum erection device participated. MAIN RESULTS The university respondents scored slightly lower than population normals in social function, role limitations due to emotional problems, and emotional well-being. The VA respondents scored lower than expected in all eight domains. Scores for the VA population were significantly lower than those for the university population in physical function, role limitations due to physical problems, bodily pain, and social function. A significant correlation was seen between marital interaction and sexual function (r = −.33, p = .01) but not between marital interaction and sexual bother (r = −.15, p = .26) in the total sample. Sexual function also correlated significantly with general health perceptions (r = .34, p = .01), role limitations due to physical problems (r = .29, p = .03), and role limitations due to emotional problems (r = .30, p = .03). Sexual bother did not correlate with any of the general HRQOL domains. Affluent men reported better sexual function (p = .03). CONCLUSIONS The emotional domains of the SF-36 are associated with more profound impairment than are the physical domains in men with erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction and the bother it causes are discrete domains of HRQOL and distinct from each other in these patients. With increased attention to patient-centered medical outcomes, greater emphasis has been placed on such variables as HRQOL. This should be particularly true for a patient-driven symptom, such as erectile dysfunction. PMID:9541372

  9. Lifetime posttraumatic stress disorder in Turkish alcohol-dependent inpatients: relationship with depression, anxiety and erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Evren, Cuneyt; Can, Suat; Evren, Bilge; Saatcioglu, Omer; Cakmak, Duran

    2006-02-01

    The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of lifetime posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in Turkish male alcohol-dependent inpatients, and to investigate the relationship of lifetime PTSD diagnosis with anxiety, depression, hopelessness, erectile dysfunction and psychosocial problems related with alcohol dependency. Eighty-two male inpatients who met DSM-IV criteria for alcohol dependence and 48 subjects without substance use disorder as a control group were included in the study. Subjects were applied the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST), the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Rate of lifetime PTSD diagnosis was found to be 26.8% among alcohol-dependent inpatients. The mean age of patients with lifetime PTSD was lower than in patients without this diagnosis, while there were no significant differences between these two groups in terms of age of first alcohol use, lifetime major depression, current depression, presence and severity of erectile dysfunction. Mean scores of HAM-D, HAM-A, BHS and MAST in the group with lifetime PTSD were significantly higher than the group without this diagnosis. There was a positive relationship between lifetime PTSD diagnosis and depression, anxiety, hopelessness and severity of psychosocial problems related to alcohol dependency, while there was no relationship between lifetime PTSD comorbidity and erectile dysfunction in alcohol-dependent patients.

  10. Development of UK recommendations on treatment for post-surgical erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Kirby, M G; White, I D; Butcher, J; Challacombe, B; Coe, J; Grover, L; Hegarty, P; Jackson, G; Lowndes, A; Payne, H; Rees, J; Sangar, V; Thompson, A

    2014-01-01

    Aim To develop a management strategy (rehabilitation programme) for postsurgical erectile dysfunction (ED) among men experiencing ED associated with treatment of prostate, bladder or rectal cancer that is suitable for use in a UK NHS healthcare context. Methods PubMed literature searches of ED management together with a survey of 13 experts in the management of ED from across the UK were conducted. Results Data from 37 articles and completed questionnaires were collated. The results discussed in this study demonstrate improved objective and subjective clinical outcomes for physical parameters, sexual satisfaction, and rates of both spontaneous erections and those associated with ED treatment strategies. Conclusion Based on the literature and survey analysis, recommendations are proposed for the standardisation of management strategies employed for postsurgical ED. PMID:24188207

  11. Impact of aging and comorbidity on the efficacy of low-intensity shock wave therapy for erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Hisasue, Shin-ichi; China, Toshiyuki; Horiuchi, Akira; Kimura, Masaki; Saito, Keisuke; Isotani, Shuji; Ide, Hisamitsu; Muto, Satoru; Yamaguchi, Raizo; Horie, Shigeo

    2016-01-01

    To evaluate the efficacy of low-intensity shock wave therapy and to identify the predictive factors of its efficacy in Japanese patients with erectile dysfunction. The present study included 57 patients with erectile dysfunction who satisfied all the following conditions: more than 6-months history of erectile dysfunction, sexual health inventory for men score of ≤ 12 without phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor, erection hardness score grade 1 or 2, mean penile circumferential change by erectometer assessing sleep related erection of < 25 mm and non-neurological pathology. Patients were treated by a low-energy shock waves generator (ED1000; Medispec, Gaithersburg, MD, USA). A total of 12 shock wave treatments were applied. Sexual health inventory for men score, erection hardness score with or without phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor, and mean penile circumferential change were assessed at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 months after the termination of low-intensity shock wave therapy. Of 57 patients who were assigned for the low-intensity shock wave therapy trial, 56 patients were analyzed. Patients had a median age of 64 years. The sexual health inventory for men and erection hardness score (with and without phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor) were significantly increased (P < 0.001) at each time-point. The mean penile circumferential change was also increased from 13.1 to 20.2 mm after low-intensity shock wave therapy (P < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, age and the number of concomitant comorbidities were statistically significant predictors for the efficacy. Low-intensity shock wave therapy seems to be an effective physical therapy for erectile dysfunction. Age and comorbidities are negative predictive factors of therapeutic response. © 2015 The Japanese Urological Association.

  12. eNOS-uncoupling in age-related erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Johnson, JM; Bivalacqua, TJ; Lagoda, GA; Burnett, AL; Musicki, B

    2011-01-01

    Aging is associated with ED. Although age-related ED is attributed largely to increased oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction in the penis, the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect are not fully defined. We evaluated whether endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) uncoupling in the aged rat penis is a contributing mechanism. Correlatively, we evaluated the effect of replacement with eNOS cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) on erectile function in the aged rats. Male Fischer 344 ‘young’ (4-month-old) and ‘aged’ (19-month-old) rats were treated with a BH4 precursor sepiapterin (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally) or vehicle for 4 days. After 1-day washout, erectile function was assessed in response to electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Endothelial dysfunction (eNOS uncoupling) and oxidative stress (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS) were measured by conducting western blot in penes samples. Erectile response was significantly reduced in aged rats, whereas eNOS uncoupling and TBARS production were significantly increased in the aged rat penis compared with young rats. Sepiapterin significantly improved erectile response in aged rats and prevented increase in TBARS production, but did not affect eNOS uncoupling in the penis of aged rats. These findings suggest that aging induces eNOS uncoupling in the penis, resulting in increased oxidative stress and ED. PMID:21289638

  13. Linear shock wave therapy in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Pelayo-Nieto, M; Linden-Castro, E; Alias-Melgar, A; Espinosa-Pérez Grovas, D; Carreño-de la Rosa, F; Bertrand-Noriega, F; Cortez-Betancourt, R

    2015-09-01

    Linear Shock Wave Therapy (LSWT) is a new noninvasive therapy that uses low-intensity shock waves to induce local angiogenesis promising modality in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). To evaluate the effectiveness of LSWT in men with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (ED), in a Tertiary Care Center. Included 15 men aged 45-70 years, sexually active with mild and moderate vascular ED evaluated with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). The study was conducted in three stage: screening, treatment and results. Treatment stage: 4 weekly sessions LSWT (RENOVA ®) 5000 waves (.09mJ/mm(2)). Erectile function was assessed with IIEFF-EF, SEP (Sexual Encounter Profile) and GAQ (Global Assessment Questions) at one and six months after treatment. The rate of success was 80% (12/15). Patients with mild ED (6/15) 40% and moderate ED (9/15) 60%. We found a positive association between IIEF-Basal (average 14.23 pts) and IIEF at one month and six months after therapy (19.69 pts) a difference of 5.46 pts. (P<.013). The feasibility and tolerability of this treatment, and rehabilitation potential features, make it this an attractive new treatment option for patients with ED. Copyright © 2014 AEU. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  14. Erectile dysfunction. A guide to diagnosis and management.

    PubMed

    Arduca, Paul

    2003-06-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common age related problem best managed in general practice. The incidence of ED will thus increase as men live longer. It is only in the past decade that the pathophysiology of ED has been well understood. This article discusses the mechanisms of normal erectile function and dysfunction and the assessment and management of ED. The success of currently available and newly emerging oral agents has revolutionised the management of ED. However, the majority of men with ED remain undiagnosed and untreated and patients are often unable to distinguish between a problem of ED, desire or libido. It is particularly important for general practitioners to enquire about ED in middle aged and older men, diabetics and patients with vascular disease. Appropriate management goes beyond management of the actual condition, and involves addressing lifestyle and psychosocial issues.

  15. Effectiveness of Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in Patients with Spinal Cord Trauma: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

    PubMed

    García-Perdomo, Herney Andrés; Echeverría-García, Fernando; Tobías, Aurelio

    2017-01-01

    To determine the effectiveness of the Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) Inhibitors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients with spinal trauma. A systematic review and meta-analysis comparing PDE5 inhibitors versus placebo were carried out for clinical trials conducted between 1980 and 2014 that evaluated male patients older than 18 years, diagnosed with spinal cord trauma and erectile dysfunction. We designed a search strategy for Medline, CENTRAL, EMBASE and other electronic sources. Two investigators independently and blindly screened the studies for inclusion. A random effect meta-analysis was performed. Six studies involving 963 patients were included. Male patients over 18 years with ED attributable or subsequent to traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) were included from these studies. In 4 of these studies, patients were randomized to the treatment group receiving sildenafil and the comparison group was placebo. Out of the remaining 2 trials, one compared tadalafil against the placebo and the other vardenafil versus placebo. The improvement on SCIs with PDE5 inhibitors was found to be large (standardized mean difference 0.71; 95% CI 0.39-1.03), with a high heterogeneity (I2 = 74.4%). PDE5 inhibitors are effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction secondary to SCI. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  16. Sexual life of Japanese patients with erectile dysfunction taking phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors: an Internet survey using the Psychological and Interpersonal Relationship Scales-Short Form questionnaire.

    PubMed

    Tsujimura, Akira; Kiuchi, Hiroshi; Soda, Tetsuji; Takezawa, Kentaro; Okuda, Hidenobu; Fukuhara, Shinichiro; Takao, Tetsuya; Nonomura, Norio; Miyagawa, Yasushi

    2014-08-01

    To investigate details of sexual function of erectile dysfunction in Japanese patients taking phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. A Japanese version of the Psychological and Interpersonal Relationship Scales-Short Form was used to carry out a nationwide survey using the Internet. A total of 556 erectile dysfunction patients (age 30-70 years) who had been prescribed a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor and had attempted sexual intercourse within the past 6 months were included in this survey. Scores were compared in relation to the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors most frequently taken within the past 6 months. In the subdomains of self-confidence and spontaneity of the Psychological and Interpersonal Relationship Scales-Short Form, scores for vardenafil and tadalafil were significantly higher than those for sildenafil. In the subdomain of time concern of the Psychological and Interpersonal Relationship Scales-Short Form, the score for tadalafil was significantly lower than that for others. Our findings support the hypothesis that Japanese patients with erectile dysfunction have high sexual self-confidence, spontaneity and low time concerns when taking tadalafil. These characteristics of tadalafil could be associated with high patient satisfaction and high preference. © 2014 The Japanese Urological Association.

  17. Efficacy and tolerability of vardenafil for treatment of erectile dysfunction in patient subgroups.

    PubMed

    Porst, Hartmut; Young, Jay M; Schmidt, Abraham C; Buvat, Jacques

    2003-09-01

    To assess whether vardenafil would improve erectile function irrespective of etiology, baseline severity, or patient age. The consistency of the response over time was also evaluated. A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled at-home study of vardenafil treatment (5, 10, and 20 mg) was performed. This secondary analysis compared the mean International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) erectile function domain scores of various subgroups at 12 weeks of treatment. These populations included organic, psychogenic, or mixed etiologies; mild, moderate, or severe baseline severity; and four age groups (younger than 45, 45 to 55, 56 to 65, and older than 65 years). In addition, all IIEF domains were compared at sequential 4-week periods, before and during treatment. In the 580 men of the intent-to-treat population, the mean erectile function domain scores were statistically greater than placebo, irrespective of etiology, baseline severity, or age. This was seen at all dosages. Compared with placebo, vardenafil statistically improved the IIEF domain scores of erectile function, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction after 4 weeks of treatment, and these improvements were maintained for 12 weeks. The rates of the most common adverse events (headache, flushing, and dyspepsia) were either constant or declined over time; they were generally mild to moderate and transient in nature. Vardenafil improved erectile function regardless of the general etiology, baseline severity of erectile dysfunction, or patient age. Improvements in erectile function and other key IIEF domains were consistently seen throughout the study.

  18. Testosterone Deficiency Causes Endothelial Dysfunction via Elevation of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Oxidative Stress in Castrated Rats.

    PubMed

    Kataoka, Tomoya; Hotta, Yuji; Maeda, Yasuhiro; Kimura, Kazunori

    2017-12-01

    Testosterone is believed to mediate the penile erectile response by producing adequate nitric oxide; therefore, testosterone deficiency results in erectile dysfunction through decreased nitric oxide bioavailability. However, the mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction in testosterone deficiency remain unclear. To investigate the mechanism of endothelial dysfunction in a rat model of testosterone deficiency. Rats were distributed into 3 groups: castrated (Cast), castrated and supplemented with testosterone (Cast + T), and sham (Sham). In the Cast + T group, castrated rats were treated daily with subcutaneous testosterone (3 mg/kg daily) for 4 weeks; Sham and Cast rats received only the vehicle. Erectile function using intracavernosal pressure and mean arterial pressure measurements after electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve, endothelial function using isometric tension, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels using ultra-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry, and inflammatory biomarker expression were performed 4 weeks after the operation. In the Cast group, the ratio of intracavernosal pressure to mean arterial pressure significantly decreased, acetylcholine-induced relaxation was lower, and serum ADMA, oxidative stress, and inflammation biomarker levels were significantly increased (P < .01). Testosterone injection significantly improved each of these parameters (P < .01). The present results provide scientific evidence of the effect of testosterone deficiency on erectile function and the effect of testosterone replacement therapy. This study provides evidence of the influence of testosterone deficiency on endothelial function by investigating ADMA and oxidative stress. A major limitation of this study is the lack of a direct link of increased ADMA by oxidative stress to inflammation. Testosterone deficiency increased not only ADMA levels but also oxidative stress and inflammation in castrated rats, which can cause damage to the corpus cavernosum, resulting in erectile dysfunction. Kataoka T, Hotta Y, Maeda Y, Kimura K. Testosterone Deficiency Causes Endothelial Dysfunction via Elevation of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Oxidative Stress in Castrated Rats. J Sex Med 2017;14:1540-1548. Copyright © 2017 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Clinical characteristics of older male military veterans seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Beaudreau, Sherry A; Rideaux, Tiffany; Zeiss, Robert A

    2011-02-01

    Male sexual dysfunction is a significant international public health issue affecting both middle-aged and older adults. To date, however, no studies have compared age differences in psychiatric issues, frequency of sexual activity and treatment recommendations between older and middle-aged male military Veterans seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) in the U.S.A. Data were collected between 1982 and 2003 at the Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Andrology Clinic. The 1,250 participants, aged 22 to 87 years (median = 63), completed a semi-structured interview. Using multiple linear regressions, we examined age differences in five domains: medical and endocrine risk factors; psychiatric and psychosocial risk factors; frequency of sexual behaviors; self-reported and objectively measured erectile function; and treatment recommendations. Compared with middle-aged adults, older adults were more likely to present for ED treatment with medical risk factors and were more often recommended a vacuum pump treatment. Middle-aged male Veterans were more likely to experience psychiatric risk factors for ED and were more sexually active than older Veterans. Despite greater objective erectile ability in middle-aged adults, there were no age differences in maximum self-reported erectile functioning. These results provide some evidence of age-related characteristics and treatment needs of male patients seeking treatment for sexual dysfunction. We encourage health care professionals working with adults across the lifespan to consider ways to individualize psychoeducation and brief psychotherapy for the treatment of ED to the specific needs of the patient, which may vary between middle-aged and older cohorts of patients.

  20. [Combined treatment of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile dysfunction].

    PubMed

    Tomilov, A A; Golubtsova, E N

    2013-01-01

    In men of middle and older age group, urination disorders and erectile dysfunction are often combined. The role of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in the treatment of these patients remains uninvestigated. Prospective study included 38 patients with urination disorders and erectile dysfunction. The average age of the patients was 63.6 +/- 5.3 years. During first three months of observation, all patients have received alpha-adrenoblocker doxazosin at a dose of 4 mg once daily per os, the next three months--phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor udenafil at a dose of 50 mg once daily per os was added to doxazosin. 3 months after treatment, majority of patients reported improvement of urination. The statistically significant changes in BP and heart rate were not recorded, indicating a satisfactory tolerability and safety of doxazosin. Against the background of combined treatment during next 3 months, progressive improvement of erectile function (IIEF score 12.8 +/- 3.4 vs 18.4 +/- 3.7; p < 0.05), and regression of urination disorders, according to IPSS score (13.4 +/- 1.2 vs 11.2 +/- 1.7; p < 0.05) were observed. Uroflowmetric indicators were not significantly changed. Based on experimental and clinical studies, it was suggested that the dysregulation of NO--cGMP system, pathological activation of Rho-kinase pathways, hyperactivity of autonomic innervation, atherosclerosis and impaired blood flow in the pelvic organs are the common pathophysiological mechanisms for LUTS and erectile dysfunction. The clinical efficacy of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in the treatment of patients with these diseases is explained by its effects on these mechanisms.

  1. Acute management of priapism in men.

    PubMed

    Tay, Yeng K; Spernat, Daniel; Rzetelski-West, Kathryn; Appu, Sree; Love, Chris

    2012-04-01

    What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Priapism is a rare event. However, various medications and medical conditions may increase the risk. Priapism can be ischaemic, non-ischaemic or stuttering. It is paramount to distinguish the type of priapism, as misdiagnosis may lead to significant morbidity. Ischaemic priapism represents a compartment syndrome of the penis and is therefore a medical emergency. A delay in management may significantly affect future erectile function. Stuttering priapism represents recurrent subacute episodes of ischaemic priapism, which may lead to erectile dysfunction. Thus episodes must be minimised. Non-ischaemic priapism is not a medical emergency. However, misdiagnosis and injection with sympathomimetic agents can result in system absorption and toxicity. This review article provides a summary of the evaluation and management of priapism. Furthermore, a step by step flow chart is provided to guide the clinician through the assessment and management of this complex issue. To review the literature regarding ischaemic, non-ischaemic and stuttering priapism. To provide management recommendations. A Medline search was carried out to identify all relevant papers with management guidelines for priapism. Ischaemic priapism represents a compartment syndrome of the penis and urgent intervention is required to decrease the risk of erectile dysfunction. Non-ischaemic priapism is not a medical emergency; however, it can result in erectile dysfunction. The treatment objective for stuttering priapism is to reduce future episodes with systemic treatments, whilst treating each ischaemic episode as an emergency. Priapism is a complex condition that requires expert care to prevent complications and irreversible erectile dysfunction. © 2012 THE AUTHOR. BJU INTERNATIONAL © 2012 BJU INTERNATIONAL.

  2. The application of color Doppler flow imaging in the diagnosis and therapeutic effect evaluation of erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Xuan, Xu-Jun; Bai, Gang; Zhang, Cai-Xia; Xu, Chao; Lu, Fu-Ding; Peng, Yang; Ma, Gang; Han, Cong-Hui; Chen, Jun

    2016-01-01

    We aim to investigate the correlations between hemodynamic parameters, penile rigidity grading, and the therapeutic effects of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors using color Doppler flow imaging after intracavernosal injection in patients with erectile dysfunction. This study involved 164 patients. After intracavernosal injection with a mixture of papaverine (60 mg), prostaglandin E1 (10 μg), and lidocaine (2%, 0.5–1 ml), the penile vessels were assessed using color Doppler flow imaging. Penile rigidity was classified based on the Erection Hardness Score system as Grades 4, 3, 2 or 1 (corresponding to Schramek Grades V to II). Then, the patients were given oral sildenafil (50–100 mg) and scored according to the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire. The number of patients with penile rigidities of Schramek Grades II to V was 14, 18, 21, and 111, respectively. The IIEF-5 score was positively correlated with the refilling index of the penile cavernosal artery (r = 0.79, P < 0.05), the peak systolic velocity (r = 0.45, P < 0.05), and penile rigidity (r = 0.75, P < 0.05), and was negatively correlated with the end diastolic velocity (r = −0.74, P < 0.05). For patients with erectile dysfunction, both the IIEF-5 score after sildenafil administration, which is correlated with penile rigidity, and the hemodynamic parameters detected using color Doppler flow imaging may predict the effects of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor treatment and could provide a reasonable model for the targeted-treatment of erectile dysfunction. PMID:25994651

  3. Erectile dysfunction in the elderly male

    PubMed Central

    Gökçe, Mehmet İlker; Yaman, Önder

    2017-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a health problem which mainly effects elderly men and this problem has become a more important health problem with the increased life expectancy. The basic risk factors of ED are hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and atherosclerotic heart disease which also have a higher incidence in the elderly men. The aim of this review article is to highlight the age-related changes in ED together with recommendations for patient evaluation and treatment PMID:28861293

  4. Traditional Chinese medical therapy for erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Li, Hao; Jiang, Hongyang

    2017-01-01

    Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), including acupuncture and Chinese herbs, is used as an alternative therapy to increase the curative effect for erectile dysfunction (ED). A large number of studies have been conducted to investigate the effect and mechanism of TCM for treating ED. The therapeutic effect of acupuncture on ED is still controversial at present. However, some Chinese herbs exhibited satisfying outcomes and they might improve erectile function by activating nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway, increasing cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) expression, elevating testosterone level, reducing intracellular Ca2+ concentration, down-regulating transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1)/Smad2 signaling pathway, or ameliorating the oxidative stress. PMID:28540226

  5. Comparing Sildenafil alone vs. Sildenafil plus brief couple sex therapy on erectile dysfunction and couples' sexual and marital quality of life: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Aubin, Sylvie; Heiman, Julia R; Berger, Richard E; Murallo, A V; Yung-Wen, Liu

    2009-01-01

    Treatment options for managing erectile dysfunction (ED) include medical and psychological interventions. The present study examined the effectiveness of a drug-only vs. combined treatment approach on erectile function as well as other domains of sexual function and cognition, couple intimacy and adaptation, and treatment satisfaction. Couples with ED were randomly assigned to either Viagra-only (VO) or Viagra plus sex therapy (VST). Sexual and relationship variables were measured at specific time points. Despite limitations, study findings extend previous conclusions and provide empirical support for the effectiveness and satisfaction with the combined treatment approach for treating men with ED of mixed etiology.

  6. Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy for erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy: a review of preclinical studies.

    PubMed

    Zou, Zi-Jun; Liang, Jia-Yu; Liu, Zhi-Hong; Gao, Rui; Lu, Yi-Ping

    2018-02-01

    Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) is a novel treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Its ability to improve erectile function has been shown in patients with vasculogenic ED by many randomized-controlled trials against sham procedures. However, the role of LI-ESWT in ED caused by radical prostatectomy (RP) is still questionable because this type of ED was excluded from nearly all clinical studies; it has been investigated in only a few small single-arm trials. This review summarizes preclinical studies on mechanisms of action of LI-ESWT for ED and neurological diseases to explore the potential of this treatment for nerve-impaired ED after RP.

  7. Use of medications for erectile dysfunction in the United States, 1996 through 2001.

    PubMed

    Wysowski, Diane K; Swann, Joslyn

    2003-03-01

    We describe the use during 1996 through 2001 of the primary medications approved in the United States for treatment of erectile dysfunction, namely alprostadil injection and urethral suppository, and sildenafil. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two pharmaceutical research data bases, the National Prescription Audit Plus, and National Disease and Therapeutic Index, were accessed and analyzed. Ancillary data were obtained from 2 health plans. Increases in the number of dispensed prescriptions for alprostadil injection and urethral suppository marketed in 1995 and 1996, respectively, were reversed in 1998 by the marketing of sildenafil. From 1998 through 2001 the estimated number of prescriptions for sildenafil increased 1.87-fold or 87% from 7.5 million to 14 million, while those for alprostadil injection decreased 33% from 239,000 to 159,000 and those for alprostadil suppository decreased 67% from 400,000 to 132,000. Sildenafil was prescribed proportionately more frequently for younger men than alprostadil injection or suppository (p <0.0001). Compared with men for whom sildenafil was prescribed in 1998 those prescribed the drug in 2001 were younger (p <0.0001). Alprostadil injection and suppository were prescribed proportionately more frequently by urologists than sildenafil. Ancillary data from 2 health plans indicated a 173% increase in 1 plan and a 25% decrease in the other due to restrictions in sildenafil prescriptions from 1998 through 2001. Due to the marketing of sildenafil in 1998 through 2001 the use of 2 approved medications for erectile dysfunction, namely alprostadil injection and alprostadil urethral suppository, decreased, while the use of sildenafil increased. Sildenafil was prescribed proportionately more frequently for younger men than alprostadil injection or suppository. Alprostadil was prescribed proportionately more frequently by urologists than sildenafil, which was most commonly prescribed by family and general practitioners, and internists. The data indicate the wide adoption and use of sildenafil for erectile dysfunction.

  8. Chronic renal failure and sexual functioning: clinical status versus objectively assessed sexual response.

    PubMed

    Toorians, A W; Janssen, E; Laan, E; Gooren, L J; Giltay, E J; Oe, P L; Donker, A J; Everaerd, W

    1997-12-01

    Sexual dysfunctions are common among patients with chronic renal failure. The prevalence was assessed in a population of 281 patients (20-60 years), and it was attempted to determine whether their mode of treatment (haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or kidney transplantation), or biochemical and endocrine variables and neuropathy affect sexual functioning. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis served as a comparison group. Assessment included clinical history, physical and laboratory examinations, questionnaires measuring erotosexual dysfunctions, and a psychophysiological test procedure. The latter is a laboratory method which measures, in a waking state, subjective and physiological sexual arousal. Men on haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis suffered significantly more often from 'Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder', 'Sexual Aversion Disorder' and 'Inhibited Male Orgasm' than men with kidney transplantation or rheumatoid arthritis. Interestingly, the prevalence of 'Male Erectile Disorder' did not differ significantly between the four groups and ranged between 17 and 43%. Of the women, transplanted patients suffered significantly less from 'Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder' than the other three groups; the prevalence of other sexual dysfunctions did not differ between the groups. Although 'Male Erectile Disorder' and 'Female Sexual Arousal Disorder' had a relatively high prevalence there were no differences in the four groups of patients in genital responses during psychophysiological testing. Genital responses during psychophysiological assessment had no relationship to the duration of renal replacement treatment, biochemical/endocrine variables, or the presence/ absence of neuropathy. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was high. Sexual dysfunction in men on haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis was not so much due to erectile failure but largely to loss of sexual interest, subjectively ascribed to fatigue. The latter was also found in women on haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.

  9. Comparison of the effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy and a vacuum erectile device on penile erectile dysfunction: a randomized clinical trial

    PubMed Central

    Qi, Tao; Ye, Lei; Wang, Bo; Zhang, Bin; Chen, Jun

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Background: This randomized clinical trial (October 2012–December 2013) compared extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and a vacuum erectile device (VED) for management of erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods: Consecutive Chinese patients (20–55 years) with ED, abnormal nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR), and international index of erectile function-5 items (IIEF-5) score <22 were randomized to receive ESWT or VED (twice weekly, 4 weeks). Primary outcomes were treatment efficacy and success rate 4 weeks after completion of therapy. Secondary outcomes included changes in IIEF-5 score, sex encounter profile (SEP) score, erection hardness score (EHS) and NPTR assessments 4 weeks post-therapy. All enrolled patients (n = 30 per group) completed the study. At baseline, age, IIEF-5 score, SEP score, EHS, and NPTR assessments were similar between groups. Results: Four weeks post-therapy, IIEF-5 score increased in the ESWT (15.03 ± 3.00 vs. 11.60 ± 2.28) and VED (15.10 ± 3.06 vs. 11.53 ± 2.27) groups, as did SEP score, EHS, and NPTR measures (all P < .05). Efficacy in the ESWT and VED groups was excellent in 10% and 13.3%, respectively, and moderate in 63.3% and 53.3%, respectively. Treatment success rate in the ESWT and VED groups was 73.3% and 67.7%, respectively. Conclusion: VED use and ESWT have comparable efficacies in the treatment of ED in Chinese patients. PMID:29095274

  10. Risk of Erectile Dysfunction Induced by Arsenic Exposure through Well Water Consumption in Taiwan

    PubMed Central

    Hsieh, Fang-I; Hwang, Ti-Sheng; Hsieh, Yi-Chen; Lo, Hsiu-Chiung; Su, Chien-Tien; Hsu, Hui-Shing; Chiou, Hung-Yi; Chen, Chien-Jen

    2008-01-01

    Background Erectile dysfunction (ED) has a profound impact on the quality of life of many men. Many risk factors are associated with ED, such as aging, sex hormone levels, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes mellitus. Arsenic exposure could damage peripheral vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the relationship between arsenic exposure and ED has seldom been evaluated. Objectives In this study we aimed to investigate whether exposure to arsenic enhances the risk of ED. Methods We recruited 177 males ≥ 50 years of age through health examinations conducted in three hospitals in Taiwan. We used a questionnaire (International Index of Erectile Function-5) to measure the level of erectile function. Sex hormones, including total testosterone and sex hormone–binding globulin, were determined by radioimmunoassay. We used another standardized questionnaire to collect background and behavioral information (e.g., cigarette smoking; alcohol, tea, or coffee drinking; and physical activity). Results The prevalence of ED was greater in the arsenic-endemic area (83.3%) than in the non–arsenic-endemic area (66.7%). Subjects with arsenic exposure > 50 ppb had a significantly higher risk of developing ED than those with exposure ≤ 50 ppb, after adjusting for age, cigarette smoking, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease [odds ratio (OR) = 3.4]. Results also showed that the risk of developing severe ED was drastically enhanced by arsenic exposure (OR = 7.5), after adjusting for free testosterone and traditional risk factors of ED. Conclusions Results suggested that chronic arsenic exposure has a negative impact on erectile function. PMID:18414639

  11. Use of intraurethral alprostadil in patients not responding to sildenafil citrate.

    PubMed

    Jaffe, Jamison S; Antell, Mara R; Greenstein, Marc; Ginsberg, Phillip C; Mydlo, Jack H; Harkaway, Richard C

    2004-05-01

    To determine whether intraurethral alprostadil would be an effective alternative for men with erectile dysfunction who did not respond adequately to sildenafil citrate but desired minimally invasive treatment. A total of 44 male patients aged 41 to 74 years with erectile dysfunction refractory to treatment with sildenafil citrate were enrolled in this study. Of the 44 patients, 10 had undergone prior radical retropubic prostatectomy. The patients were evaluated for subjective improvement in an office setting and completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men questionnaire as an objective assessment of improved erectile ability. Success was defined as subjective improvement in erectile function, as well as an improved Sexual Health Inventory for Men score. Of the 44 men, 13 (29.5%) responded successfully to intraurethral alprostadil, with a follow-up ranging from 2 to 15 months. The remaining 31 men had no response (n = 28, 90%), refused escalating doses (n = 2, 7%), or were lost to follow-up (n = 1, 3%). In the subgroup of 10 men with prior radical retropubic prostatectomy, 5 (50%) reported success with intraurethral alprostadil (500 microg in 2 patients and 1000 microg in 3 patients). Although sildenafil citrate remains the most common initial therapy in men with erectile dysfunction, intraurethral alprostadil may be a reasonable treatment option for sildenafil nonresponders. This may be especially true in men having undergone prior radical retropubic prostatectomy.

  12. Tribulus terrestris versus placebo in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: A prospective, randomized, double blind study.

    PubMed

    Santos, C A; Reis, L O; Destro-Saade, R; Luiza-Reis, A; Fregonesi, A

    2014-05-01

    To evaluate the possible effects of Tribulus terrestris herbal medicine in the erectile dysfunction treatment and to quantify its potential impact on serum testosterone levels. Prospective, randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study including thirty healthy men selected from 100 patients who presented themselves spontaneously complaining of erectile dysfunction, ≥ 40 years of age, nonsmokers, not undergoing treatment for prostate cancer or erectile dysfunction, no dyslipidemia, no phosphodiesterase inhibitor use, no hormonal manipulation and, if present hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus should be controlled. International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and serum testosterone were obtained before randomization and after 30 days of study. Patients were randomized into two groups of fifteen subjects each. The study group received 800 mg of Tribulus terrestris, divided into two doses per day for thirty days and the control group received placebo administered in the same way. The groups were statistically equivalent in all aspects evaluated. The mean (SD) age was 60 (9.4) and 62.9 (7.9), P = .36 for intervention and placebo groups, respectively. Before treatment, the intervention group showed mean IIEF-5 of 13.2 (5-21) and mean total testosterone 417.1 ng/dl (270.7-548.4 ng/dl); the placebo group showed mean IIEF-5 of 11.6 (6-21) and mean total testosterone 442.7 ng/dl (301-609.1 ng/dl). After treatment, the intervention group showed mean IIEF-5 of 15.3 (5-21) and mean total testosterone 409.3 ng/dl (216.9-760.8 ng/dl); the placebo group showed mean IIEF-5 of 13.7 (6-21) and mean total testosterone 466.3 ng/dl (264.3-934.3 ng/dl). The time factor caused statistically significant changes in both groups for IIEF-5 only (P = .0004), however, there was no difference between the two groups (P = .7914). At the dose and interval studied, Tribulus terrestris was not more effective than placebo on improving symptoms of erectile dysfunction or serum total testosterone. Copyright © 2013 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  13. Efficacy and safety of vardenafil in men with erectile dysfunction caused by spinal cord injury.

    PubMed

    Giuliano, F; Rubio-Aurioles, E; Kennelly, M; Montorsi, F; Kim, E D; Finkbeiner, A E; Pommerville, P J; Colopy, M W; Wilkins, H J; Wachs, B H

    2006-01-24

    To assess the efficacy and tolerability of vardenafil in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) due to traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). In this multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group 12-week study, 418 men aged 18 years and older with ED for more than 6 months consequent to SCI were randomized to vardenafil (n = 207) or placebo (n = 211) (10 mg for 4 weeks, then maintained or titrated to 5 or 20 mg at weeks 4 and 8). Efficacy assessments included the erectile function (EF) domain score of the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire and diary questions regarding penetration, maintenance of erection to completion of intercourse, and ejaculation. Baseline patient characteristics were similar in the vardenafil (mean age 40 years) and placebo (mean age 39 years) groups. Mean baseline EF domain scores were 11.6 in the vardenafil group and 12.1 (moderate ED) in the placebo group. EF domain score in the vardenafil group improved to 22.0 (mild ED) at last observation carried forward vs 13.5 in the placebo group (p < 0.001). Over 12 weeks of treatment, mean per-patient penetration (76% vs 41%), maintenance (59% vs 22%), and ejaculation (19% vs 10%) success rates were significantly greater vs placebo (all p < 0.001). The most frequently reported drug-related adverse events were headache (vardenafil 15%, placebo 4%), flushing (vardenafil 6%, placebo 0%), nasal congestion (vardenafil 5%, placebo 0%), and dyspepsia (vardenafil 4%, placebo 0%). Vardenafil significantly improved erectile and ejaculatory function and was generally well tolerated in men with erectile dysfunction due to spinal cord injury.

  14. The link between erectile and cardiovascular health: the canary in the coal mine.

    PubMed

    Meldrum, David R; Gambone, Joseph C; Morris, Marge A; Meldrum, Donald A N; Esposito, Katherine; Ignarro, Louis J

    2011-08-15

    Lifestyle and nutrition have been increasingly recognized as central factors influencing vascular nitric oxide (NO) production and erectile function. This review underscores the importance of NO as the principal mediator influencing cardiovascular health and erectile function. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is associated with smoking, excessive alcohol intake, physical inactivity, abdominal obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and decreased antioxidant defenses, all of which reduce NO production. Better lifestyle choices; physical exercise; improved nutrition and weight control; adequate intake of or supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, calcium, and folic acid; and replacement of any testosterone deficiency will all improve vascular and erectile function and the response to phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, which also increase vascular NO production. More frequent penile-specific exercise improves local endothelial NO production. Excessive intake of vitamin E, calcium, l-arginine, or l-citrulline may impart significant cardiovascular risks. Interventions discussed also lower blood pressure or prevent hypertension. Certain angiotensin II receptor blockers improve erectile function and reduce oxidative stress. In men aged <60 years and in men with diabetes or hypertension, erectile dysfunction can be a critical warning sign for existing or impending cardiovascular disease and risk for death. The antiarrhythmic effect of omega-3 fatty acids may be particularly crucial for these men at greatest risk for sudden death. In conclusion, by better understanding the complex factors influencing erectile and overall vascular health, physicians can help their patients prevent vascular disease and improve erectile function, which provides more immediate motivation for men to improve their lifestyle habits and cardiovascular health. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Randomised Trial of CPAP and Vardenafil on Erectile and Arterial Function in Men with Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Erectile Dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Melehan, Kerri L; Hoyos, Camilla M; Hamilton, Garun S; Wong, Keith K; Yee, Brendon J; McLachlan, Rob I; O'Meagher, Shamus; Celermajer, David; Ng, Martin K; Grunstein, Ronald R; Liu, Peter Y

    2018-02-01

    Erectile function is important for life satisfaction and is often impaired in men with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Uncontrolled studies show that treating OSA with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) improves erectile function. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (e.g. vardenafil) are the first-line therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED), but may worsen OSA. To assess the effects of CPAP and vardenafil on ED. Sixty one men with moderate-to-severe OSA and ED were randomised to 12 weeks of CPAP or sham CPAP, and 10mg daily vardenafil or placebo, in a 2x2 factorial design. International Index of Erectile Function (primary endpoint), treatment and relationship satisfaction, sleep related erections, sexual function, endothelial function, arterial stiffness, quality of life, and sleep-disordered breathing. CPAP increased the frequency of sleep-related-erections, overall sexual satisfaction, and arterial stiffness but did not change erectile function or treatment satisfaction or relationship satisfaction. Vardenafil did not alter erectile function, endothelial function, arterial stiffness or sleep disordered breathing, but did improve overall self-esteem and relationship satisfaction, other aspects of sexual function and treatment satisfaction. Adherent CPAP improved erectile function, sexual desire, overall sexual, self-esteem and relationship, and treatment satisfaction, as well as sleepiness, and quality of life. Adherent vardenafil use did not consistently change nocturnal erection quality. CPAP improves overall sexual satisfaction, sleep related erections, and arterial stiffness. Low dose daily vardenafil improves certain aspects of sexual function, and did not worsen OSA. Adherent CPAP or vardenafil use further improves ED and quality of life. Copyright © 2018 Endocrine Society

  16. Phytochemicals and the breakthrough of traditional herbs in the management of sexual dysfunctions.

    PubMed

    Adimoelja, A

    2000-01-01

    Traditional herbs have been a revolutionary breakthrough in the management of erectile dysfunction and have become known world-wide as an 'instant' treatment. The modern view of the management of erectile dysfunction subscribes to a single etiology, i.e. the mechanism of erection. A large number of pharmacological agents are orally consumed and vasoactive agents inserted intraurethrally or injected intrapenially to regain good erection. Modern phytochemicals have developed from traditional herbs. Phytochemicals focus their mechanism of healing action to the root cause, i.e. the inability to control the proper function of the whole body system. Hence phytochemicals manage erectile dysfunction in the frame of sexual dysfunction as a whole entity. Protodioscin is a phytochemical agent derived from Tribulus terrestris L plant, which has been clinically proven to improve sexual desire and enhance erection via the conversion of protodioscine to DHEA (De-Hydro-Epi-Androsterone). Preliminary observations suggest that Tribulus terrestris L grown on different soils does not consistently produce the active component Protodioscin. Further photochemical studies of many other herbal plants are needed to explain the inconsistent results found with other herbal plants, such as in diversities of Ginseng, Eurycoma longifolia, Pimpinella pruacen, Muara puama, Ginkgo biloba, Yohimbe etc.

  17. Physical activity on endothelial and erectile dysfunction: a literature review.

    PubMed

    Leoni, Luís Antônio B; Fukushima, André R; Rocha, Leandro Y; Maifrino, Laura B M M; Rodrigues, Bruno

    2014-09-01

    Physical inactivity, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, smoking and obesity were associated with imbalance in oxidative stress, leading to endothelial dysfunction. Such dysfunction is present in both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is the persistent inability to achieve or sustain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance and is one of the first manifestations of endothelial damage in men with CVD risk factors. The purpose of this article is to review the results of studies involving physical activity, CVD, endothelial dysfunction and ED in order to verify its applicability for improving the health and quality of life of men with such disorders. There is consistent evidence that endothelial damage is intimately linked to ED, and this manifestation seems to be associated with the appearance CVDs. On the other hand, physical activity has been pointed out as an important clinical strategy in the prevention and treatment of CVDs and ED mainly associated with improvement of endothelial function. However, further experimental and clinical prospective investigations are needed to test the role of physical exercises in the modulation of endothelial function and their implications on erectile function and the appearance of CVDs.

  18. Low Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Improves Erectile Function in a Model of Type II Diabetes Independently of NO/cGMP Pathway.

    PubMed

    Assaly-Kaddoum, Rana; Giuliano, François; Laurin, Miguel; Gorny, Diane; Kergoat, Micheline; Bernabé, Jacques; Vardi, Yoram; Alexandre, Laurent; Behr-Roussel, Delphine

    2016-09-01

    Erectile dysfunction is highly prevalent in type II diabetes mellitus. Low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy improves erectile function in patients with erectile dysfunction of vasculogenic origin, including diabetes. However, its mode of action remains unknown. We investigated the effects of low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy compared to or combined with sildenafil on erectile dysfunction in a type II diabetes mellitus model. Our purpose was to test our hypothesis of a mode of action targeting the cavernous nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway. GK rats, a validated model of type II diabetes mellitus, and age matched Wistar rats were treated with low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy twice weekly for 3 weeks. Treatment was repeated after a 3-week no-treatment interval. The penis was stretched and dipped in a specifically designed water-filled cage. Shock waves were delivered by a calibrated probe yielding a controlled energy flux density (0.09 mJ/mm(2)). The probe was attached to an electrohydraulic unit with a focused shock wave source, allowing for accurate extrapolation to humans. Following a 4-week washout period erectile function was assessed as well as endothelium dependent and independent, and nitrergic relaxations of the corpus cavernosum of GK rats. Low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy significantly improved erectile function in GK rats to the same extent as sildenafil. Treatment effects were potentiated when combined with sildenafil. Shock wave effects were not associated with improved cavernous endothelium dependent or independent, or nitrergic reactivity. Low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy improved erectile function in GK rats. Unexpectedly, this was not mediated by a nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate dependent mechanism. Sildenafil increased shock wave efficacy. This preclinical paradigm to deliver low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy to the rat penis should help further exploration of the mode of action of this therapy on erectile tissue. Copyright © 2016 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Pharmacological Prevention and Reversion of Erectile Dysfunction After Radical Prostatectomy, by Modulation of Nitric Oxide/cGMP Pathways

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-03-01

    cancer in men. Now, we have shown that much lower doses of sildenafil, combined or not with a nitric oxide donor, molsidomine, also correct the CVOD...ED) subsequent to radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer can be prevented and even reversed by long-term sustained treatment with PDE5...erectile dysfunction subsequent to radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer , based on the long term sustained administration of PDE5 inhibitors. Our

  20. The application of quantitative methods for identifying and exploring the presence of bias in systematic reviews: PDE-5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Bekkering, G E; Abou-Setta, A M; Kleijnen, J

    2008-01-01

    A systematic review of PDE-5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction was performed to evaluate the utility of quantitative methods for identifying and exploring the influence of bias and study quality on pooled outcomes from meta-analyses. We included 123 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methodological quality was poorly reported. All three drugs appeared highly effective. Indirect adjusted analyses showed no differences between the three drugs. Funnel plots and statistical tests showed no evidence of small-study effects for sildenafil whereas there was evidence of such bias for tadalafil and vardenafil. Adjustment for missing studies using trim and fill techniques did not alter the pooled estimates substantially. The exclusion of previous sildenafil nonresponders was associated with larger treatment effects for tadalafil. This investigation was hampered by poor reporting of methodological quality, a low number of studies, heterogeneity and large effect sizes. Despite such limitations, a comprehensive assessment of biases should be a routine in systematic reviews.

  1. What Is New with Sexual Side Effects After Transurethral Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Surgery?

    PubMed

    Rieken, Malte; Antunes-Lopes, Tiago; Geavlete, Bogdan; Marcelissen, Tom

    2018-01-01

    Transurethral resection of the prostate as well as laser prostatectomy (by either holmium laser enucleation of the prostate or Greenlight laser vaporization) is associated with risks of sexual dysfunction such as antegrade ejaculation and occasionally erectile dysfunction. While ejaculation-sparing variations of these techniques show promising results, larger multicenter studies are needed to confirm promising data. Prostatic urethral lift maintains erectile and ejaculatory function at 5-yr follow-up. The same is true for the 3-yr data on the Rezum system. Recently, Aquablation has shown promising results; however, these 6-mo data need to be confirmed during longer follow-up. An individualized, shared decision-making process based on clinical parameters and patient preference is warranted to select the ideal treatment option for each patient. Sexual dysfunction such as loss of ejaculation and, less frequently, erectile dysfunction can occur after transurethral prostate surgery. Ejaculation-sparing modifications as well as minimally invasive alternatives show promising results. An individualized approach is warranted to select the ideal technique for each patient. Copyright © 2018 European Association of Urology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. [Efficacy and tolerance of PDE-5 in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in schizophrenic patients: A literature review].

    PubMed

    Bacconi, L; Gressier, F

    2017-02-01

    Sexual dysfunction is an important public health problem in men and is associated with reduced quality of life. It is more common in patients with schizophrenia. It is well-established that antipsychotic drugs cause sexual dysfunction with consequences on the quality of life of patients, adherence to treatment, and public health costs. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors) are indicated for the management of erectile dysfunction. However, there is little information on such treatment in schizophrenic patients. This literature review aimed to summarize the current data on the efficacy and tolerability of PDE-5 inhibitors in the erectile dysfunction in schizophrenic patients. PubMed, PsycInfo and Cochrane databases were searched for studies published until August 2014. Only 6 studies met the inclusion criteria. Three were randomized, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled trials and three were open studies. Various scales were used to measure erectile and orgasmic function, desire, satisfaction during intercourse, overall satisfaction, quality of life and intensity of schizophrenic symptoms. In the 3 randomized studies (one with sildenafil 25-50 mg, one with lodenafil carbonate 80 mg/j and the last one with tadalafil 10 mg), the rate of participants who completed the trial was high (around 95 %). All three included patients with schizophrenia or schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Patients reported significant improvement on sexual dysfunction. However, no statistical difference was reported between lodenafil and placebo, on different scales, suggesting a very important placebo effect in patients with schizophrenia. All three found a good tolerance of PDE-5 inhibitors. Side effects were rare and were mainly nasal congestion, headaches, nausea and dizziness. There were no major side effects or drug interactions. Considering the 3 open studies, 2 involved sildenafil and one tadalafil. All concluded in improved erectile and orgasmic function, desire, satisfaction during intercourse, overall satisfaction, and even the quality of life when it was studied. However, very few patients were included. Little data are available on the use of PDE5 inhibitors in schizophrenic patients. The 6 studies included few patients which reduces the power and the scope of their conclusions. There is also an important bias due to the use of self-questionnaires. The methodologies of the studies differ in many aspects which limits the comparability. Inclusion and exclusion criteria, drugs used and scales varied among the studies. However, the management of erectile disorder seems to be a consistent target in an integrative approach for the overall well-being of schizophrenic patients. PDE-5 inhibitors appear to be safe and could improve erectile function in schizophrenic patients. In total, the current data suggest efficiency and good tolerance of the use of PDE-5 inhibitors in schizophrenic patients with erectile dysfunction. However, further studies focusing on PDE-5 inhibitors are needed to more deeply assess their efficacy and safety in patients with schizophrenia. Copyright © 2016 L'Encéphale, Paris. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  3. New advances in erectile technology

    PubMed Central

    Stein, Marshall J.; Lin, Haocheng

    2014-01-01

    New discoveries and technological advances in medicine are rapid. The role of technology in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) will be widened and more options will be available in the years to come. These erectile technologies include external penile support devices, penile vibrators, low intensity extracorporeal shockwave, tissue engineering, nanotechnology and endovascular technology. Even for matured treatment modalities for ED, such as vacuum erectile devices and penile implants, there is new scientific information and novel technology available to improve their usage and to stimulate new ideas. We anticipate that erectile technologies may revolutionize ED treatment and in the very near future ED may become a curable condition. PMID:24489605

  4. Effect of sildenafil citrate and a nitric oxide donating sildenafil derivative, NCX 911, on cavernosal relaxation and superoxide formation in hypercholesterolaemic rabbits.

    PubMed

    Shukla, Nilima; Jones, Robert; Persad, Raj; Angelini, Gianni D; Jeremy, Jamie Y

    2005-07-11

    Hypercholesterolaemia promotes erectile dysfunction through increased superoxide formation and negation of nitric oxide (NO) bioactivity in cavernosal tissue. The source of superoxide has not been clearly defined, however. Sildenafil (Viagra), the standard therapy for erectile dysfunction, may also be rendered more effective by the presence of an NO donor. One drug that intrinsically fulfils this criterion is sildenafil nitrate (NCX 911), an NO donating derivative of sildenafil. The objective of this study, therefore, was to determine the source of superoxide and its effect on erectile function in corpus cavernosum from hypercholesterolaemic rabbits and to determine whether NCX 911 confers an improvement over sildenafil citrate in this model. Hypercholesterolaemia elicited an increase in superoxide formation by rabbit cavernosal tissue and a reduction of carbachol-stimulated relaxation both of which were reversed by diphenylene iodonium chloride and apocynin (NADPH oxidase inhibitors). In response to sodium nitroprusside, hypercholesterolaemia also caused an attenuation of cavernosal relaxation which was not reversed with NADPH oxidase inhibitors. Both sildenafil citrate and NCX 911 significantly reversed impaired carbachol-stimulated relaxation and inhibited superoxide formation by cavernosal tissue from hypercholesterolaemic rabbits, NCX 911 being more potent. NCX 911 also augmented cavernosal cGMP levels, an effect blocked by the guanylyl cyclase inhibitor, 1H-{1,2,4}oxadiazolo {4,3-a}quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ). These data demonstrate that hypercholesterolaemia promotes erectile dysfunction through an augmentation of superoxide derived from NADPH oxidase in cavernosal tissue. It also indicates that NO donating sildenafil may be therapeutically more beneficial than conventional sildenafil in treating erectile dysfunction with an oxidative stress-related aetiology.

  5. Comparison of efficacy and satisfaction profile, between penile prosthesis implantation and oral PDE5 inhibitor tadalafil therapy, in men with nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Megas, Georgios; Papadopoulos, Georgios; Stathouros, Georgios; Moschonas, Dimitrios; Gkialas, Ioannis; Ntoumas, Konstantinos

    2013-07-01

    WHAT'S KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT? AND WHAT DOES THE STUDY ADD?: Erectile dysfunction after nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy constitutes a challenge to the urologist. The mainstay of medical treatment after radical prostatectomy to restore spontaneous erectile function remains phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitors, despite the fact that data from animal studies suggesting that PDE5 inhibitors can prevent smooth muscle apoptosis and fibrosis have not yet been extrapolated to humans because of a lack of standardized protocols. If the above treatment fails, second-line therapies such as intraurethral prostaglandins, penile injection therapy and vacuum devices are offered. When less invasive therapies are ineffective, interventions that preserve sexual function such as penile prosthesis implantation become the treatment of choice. Our study reveals the alternative of penile prosthesis implantation as first-line treatment in erectile dysfunction after nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy. It also highlights its superiority to the oral PDE5 inhibitor treatment, regarding the erection, frequency, firmness, maintenance and penetration ability. This suggests that a concept of an early penile intervention in the future would be promising for those patients who wish to remain sexually active without depending on oral formulations with doubtful and delayed results. To evaluate the outcome of penile prosthesis surgery in comparison to oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor administration, in men with erectile dysfunction after nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy, as early penile intervention therapy. A total of 174 patients treated by nerve-sparing retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP) for clinically localized prostate cancer, between January 2006 and September 2009 enrolled in the study, 153 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria, and 69 (45%) patients presented with post-RRP erectile dysfunction 6 months after primary surgery. Fifty-four patients were disease-free and subdivided into two arms according to treatment modality, either tadalafil three times/week or penile prosthesis implantation. All patients were evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire preoperatively and at 6, 12 and 24 month postoperatively. Repeated measurements analysis of variance was conducted to evaluate the effect of time and group on IIEF total score. There was a significant reduction in IIEF score from preoperative values to the first measurement after surgery in both treatment groups. The overall degree of change from the first time point immediately after surgery to 2 years was greater in the penile prosthesis group than the tadalafil group (20.4 ± 1.3 vs 8.1 ± 2.4, P < 0.001). The efficacy and satisfaction results of both treatment types are considered acceptable. However, regarding the erection frequency, firmness, penetration ability, maintenance and erection confidence it seems that penile prosthesis implantation is superior to oral treatment. The concept of early penile intervention should be considered and is promising for all patients with post-RRP erectile dysfunction. © 2012 BJU International.

  6. Avanafil for erectile dysfunction in elderly and younger adults: differential pharmacology and clinical utility

    PubMed Central

    Katz, Eric G; Tan, Ronny BW; Rittenberg, Daniel; Hellstrom, Wayne J

    2014-01-01

    The treatment modalities of erectile dysfunction range from oral pharmacotherapy to intracavernosal injections, intraurethral pellets, vacuum erectile devices, and the surgical option of penile prosthesis insertion. Oral phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors still remain the preferred treatment for patients since they are the least invasive, not to mention that they can be prescribed by non-urologists. Due to these factors, there has been development of newer drugs with fewer side effects. This is a review of the second generation phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor, avanafil, looking into its pharmacology as well as its clinical utility. Avanafil’s faster onset and shorter duration of action has made it preferred as compared to other PDE5 inhibitors for patients with multiple comorbidities. PMID:25210457

  7. The effect of vascular endothelial growth factor on a rat model of traumatic arteriogenic erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Lee, Ming-Chan; El-Sakka, Ahmed I; Graziottin, Tulio M; Ho, Hao-Chung; Lin, Ching-Shwun; Lue, Tom F

    2002-02-01

    We tested the hypothesis that intracavernous injection of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can restore erectile function in a rat model of traumatic arteriogenic erectile dysfunction. Exploration of bilateral internal iliac arteries was performed in 50, 3-month-old male rats. A total of 44 rats underwent bilateral ligation of the internal iliac arteries and 6 that underwent exploration only served as the sham operated group. Minutes later intracavernous injection of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) plus bovine serum albumin in 16 rats, 2 microg. VEGF plus PBS plus BSA in 12 and 4 microg. VEGF plus PBS plus BSA in 16 was performed. At weeks 1, 2 and 6 about a third of the rats in each group underwent electrostimulation of the cavernous nerves to assess erectile function and were then sacrificed. Penile tissues were collected for histochemical and electron microscopy examinations. No impairment of erectile function was noted in sham operated rats. Immediately after arterial ligation all rats showed little or no erectile response to neurostimulation. In PBS treated rats modest recovery of erectile function was noted at week 6. Significant recovery of erectile function was noted in VEGF treated rats at weeks 1 and 2 in the 4 microg. group only and at week 6 in the 2 and 4 microg. groups. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase staining showed a reduction in neuronal nitric oxide synthase positive nerve fibers in the dorsal or intracavernous nerves at week 1. Moderate recovery of neuronal nitric oxide synthase positive nerve fibers was noted in the 2 and 4microg. VEGF treated groups but not in the PBS treated group. Electron microscopy revealed no pathological change in sham operated rats. In dorsal nerves the atrophy of myelinated and nonmyelinated nerve fibers was noted in ligated plus PBS treated rats. Partial recovery was observed in VEGF treated rats. Scattered atrophic smooth muscle cells were seen in PBS and occasionally in VEGF treated rats but not in the sham operated group. The most dramatic findings in VEGF treated rats were hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the endothelial cells, especially those lining the small capillaries. Ligation of bilateral internal iliac arteries produced a reliable animal model of traumatic arteriogenic erectile dysfunction. Intracavernous injection of VEGF minutes after arterial ligation facilitated the recovery of erectile function.

  8. Male sexual dysfunction and infertility associated with neurological disorders

    PubMed Central

    Fode, Mikkel; Krogh-Jespersen, Sheila; Brackett, Nancy L; Ohl, Dana A; Lynne, Charles M; Sønksen, Jens

    2012-01-01

    Normal sexual and reproductive functions depend largely on neurological mechanisms. Neurological defects in men can cause infertility through erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction and semen abnormalities. Among the major conditions contributing to these symptoms are pelvic and retroperitoneal surgery, diabetes, congenital spinal abnormalities, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury. Erectile dysfunction can be managed by an increasingly invasive range of treatments including medications, injection therapy and the surgical insertion of a penile implant. Retrograde ejaculation is managed by medications to reverse the condition in mild cases and in bladder harvest of semen after ejaculation in more severe cases. Anejaculation might also be managed by medication in mild cases while assisted ejaculatory techniques including penile vibratory stimulation and electroejaculation are used in more severe cases. If these measures fail, surgical sperm retrieval can be attempted. Ejaculation with penile vibratory stimulation can be done by some spinal cord injured men and their partners at home, followed by in-home insemination if circumstances and sperm quality are adequate. The other options always require assisted reproductive techniques including intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization with or without intracytoplasmic sperm injection. The method of choice depends largely on the number of motile sperm in the ejaculate. PMID:22138899

  9. Effects of tissue-cultured mountain ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) extract on male patients with erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Tae-Hwan; Jeon, Seung Hyun; Hahn, Eun-Joo; Paek, Kee-Yoeup; Park, Jong Kwan; Youn, Nae Young; Lee, Hyung-Lae

    2009-01-01

    Korean ginseng and mountain ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) are important traditional herbal plants whose ginsenosides are generally accepted as serving to improve sexual functions, such as penile erection. We investigated the effects of tissue-cultured mountain ginseng extract (TMGE) on male patients with erectile dysfunction (ED). A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 143 patients experiencing ED. Over the course of 8 weeks, one group took 1 000 mg of TMGE twice a day, and the other group took 1 000 mg of placebo twice a day. The effects of the TMGE and the placebo were analyzed using the Korean version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire. A total of 86 patients completed 8 weeks of treatment. The scores on the five domains of the IIEF after medication were significantly higher than the baseline scores in the group treated with TMGE (P < 0.05), whereas no significant improvement was observed in the placebo group (P > 0.05). Erectile function and overall satisfaction scores after medication were significantly higher in the TMGE group than in the placebo group (P < 0.05). Erectile function of patients in the TMGE-treated group significantly improved, suggesting that TMGE could be utilized for improving erectile function in male patients. PMID:19234482

  10. Does renal transplantation improve erectile dysfunction in hemodialysed patients? What is the role of associated factors?

    PubMed

    Pourmand, G; Emamzadeh, A; Moosavi, S; Mehrsai, A; Taherimahmoudi, M; Nikoobakht, M; Saraji, A; Salem, S

    2007-05-01

    To assess the effect of successful renal transplantation on improvement of erectile function in hemodialysis (HD) patients and the relationship between the degree of patient response and other factors. From September 2002 to November 2005, erectile function of 64 patients on HD for at least 6 months was evaluated pretransplantation and 6 months posttransplantation by International Index of Erectile Function, version 5 (IIEF-5). Sixty four age-matched persons without renal impairment were enrolled as control group to compare erectile dysfunction (ED) prevalence with the HD group. We evaluated duration of HD, age, and site of arterial anastomosis. In an attempt to find predictors of improvement of ED, after kidney transplantation, we performed linear regression analysis with a backward method. The prevalence of ED in HD patients was 87.5%. Although there were some differences in the prevalence of ED between patients older versus younger than 50 years, the difference was not statistically significant. There was no relationship between the duration of dialysis and the severity of ED in HD group. Compared to the pretransplant IIEF-5 score (13.59), there was significant improvement (19.16). In an attempt to find predictors of ED improvement, we used a linear regression analysis with backward method. Pretransplant IIEF-5 score, age at the time of transplant, and anastomosis to the common iliac artery showed significant associations with improvement, but the duration of dialysis and anastomosis to internal iliac or external iliac artery did not. The incidence of ED among hemodialyzed patients is high. Kidney transplantation is the key treatment for this complaint. ED has a major negative impact on the quality of life and family relations. Its treatment is associated with improvement of psychogenic factors. ED is a sensitive topic and many patients will not spontaneously discuss it with their physician, so better to include potency evaluation in posttransplantation list evaluations.

  11. Erectile Dysfunction in the Older Adult Male.

    PubMed

    Mola, Joanna R

    2015-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) in the older adult male is a significant problem affecting more than 75% of men over 70 years of age in the United States. Older men have an increased likelihood of developing ED due to chronic disease, comorbid conditions, and age-related changes. Research has demonstrated that while the prevalence and severity of ED increases with age, sexual desire often remains unchanged. This article discusses the clinical picture of ED, including relevant pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and evaluation and treatment options.

  12. Urinary retention, erectile dysfunction and meningitis due to sacral herpes zoster: a case report and review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Erol, B; Avci, A; Eken, C; Ozgok, Y

    2009-01-01

    Zona zoster infection is often associated with painful erythematous vesicular eruptions of the skin or mucous membranes. Varicella zoster virus which stays latent in the sensorial root ganglia causes zona zoster infection. The most recognized feature of zona zoster is the dermatomal distribution of vesicular rashes. In the present case report, we state an unusual presentation of sacral zona zoster with urinary retention, erectile dysfunction and meningitis. Copyright 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  13. Erectile Dysfunction: A Sign of Heart Disease?

    MedlinePlus

    ... e609. Cunningham GR, et al. Overview of male sexual dysfunction. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed July 8, ... G, et al. The second Princeton consensus on sexual dysfunction and cardiac risk: New guidelines for sexual medicine. ...

  14. Pharmacotherapy of Sexual Dysfunctions : Current Status

    PubMed Central

    Avasthi, Ajith; Biswas, Parthasarathy

    2004-01-01

    The sexual dysfunctions are one of the most prevalent conditions. Sexual dysfunctions can have profound effect on the psychological well-being of an individual and the psychosexual relationship of a couple. Management of the sexual dysfunction should be preceded by an accurate diagnosis reached after a complete medical and sexual history and physical examination. Current focus of researchers has been on understanding the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation and other sexual dysfunctions that can help in developing newer pharmacological cures for these conditions. Recently, a number of clinical trials have studied the potential effectiveness of the phosphodiesterase (PDE)-5 inhibitor sildenafil in the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and Premature Ejaculation (PME). The introduction of PDE-5 inhibitors like sildenafil, vardenafil and tadalafil has revolutionized the treatment of sexual dysfunctions. This review focuses on the recent pharmacological advances in the treatment of common sexual dysfunctions like ED and PME with special focus on the role of PDE-5 inhibitors. Also discussed is the pharmacological treatment of other less prevalent and recognized disorders like female sexual dysfunction, drug induced sexual dysfunction etc. PMID:21224902

  15. The effect of methamphetamine on an animal model of erectile function

    PubMed Central

    Tar, Moses T.; Martinez, Luis R.; Nosanchuk, Joshua D.; Davies, Kelvin P.

    2014-01-01

    In the U.S. methamphetamine is considered a first-line treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is also a common drug of abuse. Reports in patients and abusers suggest its use results in impotence. The efficacy of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i) to restore erectile function in these patient groups also has not been determined. In these studies we determined if the rat is a suitable animal model for the physiological effects of methamphetamine on erectile function, and if a PDE5i (tadalafil) has an effect on erectile function following methamphetamine treatment. In acute phase studies, erectile function was measured in male Sprague-Dawley rats, before and after administration of 10 mg/kg methamphetamine i.p. Chronically treated animals received escalating doses of methamphetamine (2.5 mg/kg (1st week), 5 mg/kg (2nd week), and 10 mg/kg (3rd week)) i.p. daily for three weeks and erectile function compared to untreated controls. The effect of co-administration of tadalafil was also investigated in rats acutely and chronically treated with methamphetamine. Erectile function was determined by measuring the intracorporal pressure/blood pressure ratio (ICP/BP) following cavernous nerve stimulation. In both acute and chronic phase studies we observed a significant increase in the rates of spontaneous erections after methamphetamine administration. In addition, following stimulation of the cavernous nerve at 4 and 6mA, there was a significant decrease in the ICP/BP ratio (approximately 50%), indicative of impaired erectile function. Tadalafil treatment reversed this effect. In chronically treated animals the ICP/BP ratio following 4 and 6mA stimulation decreased by approximately 50% compared to untreated animals and erectile dysfunction was also reversed by tadalafil. Overall our data suggests that the rat is a suitable animal model to study the physiological effect of methamphetamine on erectile function. Our work also provides a rationale for treating patients that report erectile dysfunction associated with therapeutics containing methamphetamine or amphetamine with PDE5i. PMID:24706617

  16. Fluoxetine and premature ejaculation: a double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled study.

    PubMed

    Haensel, S M; Klem, T M; Hop, W C; Slob, A K

    1998-02-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of fluoxetine on sexual function in men with premature ejaculation and/or erectile dysfunction and control subjects in a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. There were four groups: (1) premature ejaculation (PE, N = 9); (2) premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction (PE/ED, N = 9); (3) erectile dysfunction (ED, N = 7); and (4) healthy, sexually functional control subjects (N = 15). The study consisted of three 4-week periods: fluoxetine, washout, and placebo (or vice versa). Fluoxetine began at 5 mg/day for 2 weeks, followed by 10 mg/day for 2 weeks. At weeks 0, 4, 8, and 12, subjects visited the laboratory for evaluation of sexual function and assessment of erectile response, ejaculation, and sexual arousal to visual erotic stimulation without and with concomitant vibrotactile stimulation to the penis. At home, daily logs for sexual activities and feelings of well-being were maintained, and nocturnal penile tumescence was measured. The latency to ejaculation increased significantly in the PE/ED group (p = 0.03) and in the PE and the PE/ED group taken together (p = 0.007) but not in the PE group alone. Fluoxetine stimulated objectively but not subjectively measured erectile response during laboratory assessment in all groups. No major side effects were reported. In conclusion, fluoxetine (5-10 mg/day) was effective in increasing latency to ejaculation in patients with PE (PE and PE/ED groups combined).

  17. Flk-1+Sca-1- mesenchymal stem cells: functional characteristics in vitro and regenerative capacity in vivo

    PubMed Central

    Li, Yugang; Pan, Enshan; Wang, Yu; Zhu, Xiaoguang; Wei, Anyang

    2015-01-01

    Objectives: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a powerful tool in regenerative medicine because of their differentiation and migration capacities. We aimed to investigate the possibility of Flk-1+Sca-1- mesenchymal stem cells (Flk-1+Sca-1- MSCs) transplantation to repair erectile function in patients suffering from diabetes mellitus (DM)-associated erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods: In this study, we isolated Flk-1+Sca-1- MSCs from bone marrow (bMSCs). Then, newborn male rats were intraperitoneally injected with 5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine for the purpose of tracking endogenous Flk-1+Sca-1- MSCs. Eight weeks later, 8 of these rats were randomly chosen to serve as normal control (N group). The remaining rats were injected intraperitoneally with 60 mg/kg of streptozotocin (STZ) to induce DM. Eight of these rats were randomly chosen to serve as DM control (DM group) while another 8 rats were subject to Flk-1+Sca-1- MSCs treatment (DM+MSC group). All rats were evaluated for erectile function by intracavernous pressure (ICP) measurement. Afterward, their penile tissues were examined by histology. Results: Flk-1+Sca-1- MSCs could differentiate into skeletal muscle cells and endothelial cells in vivo and in vitro. Engrafted Flk-1+Sca-1- MSCs were shown to home to injured muscle, participate in myofibers repair and could partially reconstitute the sarcolemmal expression of myocardin and ameliorate the level of related specific pathological markers. Conclusion: Flk-1+Sca-1- MSCs could be used in the treatment erectile function in diabetes mellitus associated erectile dysfunction by promoting regeneration of nNOS-positive nerves, endothelium, and smooth muscle in the penis. PMID:26617697

  18. Safety and efficacy of low intensity shockwave (LISW) treatment in patients with erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Ruffo, A.; Capece, M.; Prezioso, D.; Romeo, G.; Illiano, E.; Romis, L.; Lauro, G. Di; Iacono, F.

    2015-01-01

    ABSTRACT The primary goal in the management strategy of a patient with ED would be to determine its etiology and cure it when possible, and not just to treat the symptoms alone. One of the new therapeutic strategies is the use of low intensity extracorporeal shockwave (LISW) therapy. The mechanism of shockwave therapy is not completely clear. It is suggested that LISW induces neovascularization and improvement of cavernosal arterial flow which can lead to an improvement of erectile function by releasing NO, VEGF and PCNA. Materials and Methods: 31 patients between February and June 2013 with mild to severe ED and non-Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors responders were enrolled. Patients underwent four weekly treatment sessions. During each session 3600 shocks at 0.09mJ/ mm2 were given, 900 shocks at each anatomical area (right and left corpus cavernosum, right and left crus). Improvement of the erectile function was evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF), the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) diaries (SEP-Questions 2 and 3) and Global Assessment Questions (GAQ-Q1 and GAQ-Q2). Results: At 3-month follow-up IIEF-EF scores improved from 16.54±6.35 at baseline to 21.03±6.38. Patients answering ‘yes’ to the SEP-Q2 elevated from 61% to 89% and from 32% to 62% in the SEP-Q3. A statistically significant improvement was reported to the Global Assessment Questions (GAQ-Q1 and GAQ-Q2). Conclusion: In conclusion, we can affirm that LISW is a confirmed therapeutic approach to erectile dysfunction that definitely needs more long-term trials to be clarified and further verified. PMID:26689523

  19. Basic Science Evidence for the Link Between Erectile Dysfunction and Cardiometabolic Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Musicki, Biljana; Bella, Anthony J.; Bivalacqua, Trinity J.; Davies, Kelvin P.; DiSanto, Michael E.; Gonzalez-Cadavid, Nestor F.; Hannan, Johanna L.; Kim, Noel N.; Podlasek, Carol A.; Wingard, Christopher J.; Burnett, Arthur L.

    2016-01-01

    Introduction Although clinical evidence supports an association between cardiovascular/metabolic diseases (CVMD) and erectile dysfunction (ED), scientific evidence for this link is incompletely elucidated. Aim This study aims to provide scientific evidence for the link between CVMD and ED. Methods In this White Paper, the Basic Science Committee of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America assessed the current literature on basic scientific support for a mechanistic link between ED and CVMD, and deficiencies in this regard with a critical assessment of current preclinical models of disease. Results A link exists between ED and CVMD on several grounds: the endothelium (endothelium-derived nitric oxide and oxidative stress imbalance); smooth muscle (SM) (SM abundance and altered molecular regulation of SM contractility); autonomic innervation (autonomic neuropathy and decreased neuronal-derived nitric oxide); hormones (impaired testosterone release and actions); and metabolics (hyperlipidemia, advanced glycation end product formation). Conclusion Basic science evidence supports the link between ED and CVMD. The Committee also highlighted gaps in knowledge and provided recommendations for guiding further scientific study defining this risk relationship. This endeavor serves to develop novel strategic directions for therapeutic interventions. PMID:26646025

  20. Nanoparticles as a Novel Delivery Vehicle for Therapeutics Targeting Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Han, George; Tar, Moses; Kuppam, Dwaraka S. R.; Friedman, Adam; Melman, Arnold; Friedman, Joel; Davies, Kelvin P.

    2010-01-01

    Introduction Nanoparticles represent a potential novel mechanism for transdermal delivery of erectogenic agents directly to the penis. Aim To determine if nanoparticles encapsulating known erectogenic agents (tadalafil, sialorphin, and nitric oxide [NO]) can improve erectile function in a rat model of erectile dysfunction (ED) as a result of aging (the Sprague-Dawley retired breeder rat). Methods Nanoparticles encapsulating the erectogenic agents were applied as a gel to the glans and penile shaft of anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats and the intracorporal pressure/blood pressure (ICP/BP) monitored for up to 2 hours with or without stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Control nanoparticles were made without encapsulating erectogenic agents and applied in a similar manner in separate experiments. Results Nanoparticles encapsulating NO caused spontaneous visible erections in the rat, with an average time of onset of 4.5 minutes, duration of 1.42 minutes, and ICP/BP of 0.67 ± 0.14. The sialorphin nanoparticles also caused visible spontaneous erections after an average of 4.5 minutes, with a duration of 8 minutes and ICP/BP ratio of 0.72 ± 0.13. The difference in the erectile response between groups of animals treated with NO or sialorphin nanoparticles was significantly different from the control group treated with empty nanoparticles (P < 0.05) Tadalafil nanoparticles showed a significant increase in the mean ICP/BP (0.737 ± 0.029) following stimulation of the cavernous nerve (4 mA) 1 hour after application of the nanoparticles with a visibly improved erectile response. Conclusions Nanoparticles encapsulating three different erectogenic agents resulted in increased erectile function when applied to the penis of a rat model of ED. Nanoparticles represent a potential novel route for topical delivery of erectogenic agents which could improve the safety profile for existing orally administered drugs by avoiding effects of absorption and first-pass metabolism, and would be less hazardous than injection. PMID:19765204

  1. Incidence of De Novo Erectile Dysfunction after Urethroplasty: A Prospective Observational Study

    PubMed Central

    Sachin, Dharwadkar; ChikkaMoga Siddaiah, Manohar; Chandrashekar Sidaramappa, Ratkal; Ramaiah, Keshavamurthy

    2017-01-01

    Purpose De novo erectile dysfunction (ED) is a known complication after urethroplasty. Incidence and natural history of de novo ED after urethroplasty is underreported. We assessed the incidence of de novo ED after urethroplasty. Materials and Methods Consecutive consenting urethroplasty (n=48) patients aged 21 to 50 years from February 2014 to July 2016 with normal preoperative erectile function as determined by an International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) score ≥22 were included and interviewed at 3, 6, and 12 months. Results In patients with anterior stricture (n=40), substitution urethroplasty (SU) was performed in 22 patients (55.0%) and end-to-end anastomotic urethroplasty (EEAU) in 18 patients (45.0%). Their mean IIEF-5 score was 24.15±0.8 preoperatively, 20.10±4.2 at 3 months (p<0.001), 22.70±2.3 at 6 months (p=0.0012), and 23.70±1.7 at 12 months (p=0.03), showing a recovery of erectile function with time. All 8 patients with pelvic fracture urethral injury (PFUI) underwent progressive perineal urethroplasty. Their mean IIEF score was 24.0±1.2 preoperatively, 18.8±5.4 at 3 months (p=0.002), 20.9±3.5 at 6 months (p=0.37), and 22.0±1.5 at 12 months (p=0.427). The incidence of ED was similar at 1 year postoperatively between patients with anterior stricture and PFUI and between patients who underwent EEAU or SU for anterior stricture. Conclusions Incidence of ED at 1 year after PFUI is similar to that after surgery for anterior stricture in patients with normal preoperative erectile function. Among the cases of anterior stricture, recovery was better with SU at 3 months and was similar between SU and EEAU at 1 year. PMID:28868817

  2. Penile Low-Intensity Shock Wave Therapy: A Promising Novel Modality for Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Kitrey, Noam D.; Gruenwald, Ilan; Appel, Boaz; Vardi, Yoram

    2014-01-01

    Penile extracorporeal low-intensity shock wave therapy (LIST) to the penis has recently emerged as a novel and promising modality in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). LIST has angiogenic properties and stimulates neovascularization. If applied to the corpora cavernosa, LIST can improve penile blood flow and endothelial function. In a series of clinical trials, including randomized double-blind sham-controlled studies, LIST has been shown to have a substantial effect on penile hemodynamics and erectile function in patients with vasculogenic ED. LIST is effective in patients who are responsive to phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) and can also convert PDE5i nonresponders to responders. The response to LIST wanes gradually over time, and after 2 years, about half of the patients maintain their function. Extensive research is needed to understand the effect of LIST on erectile tissue, to modify the treatment protocol to maximize its outcomes, and to identify the patients who will benefit the most from this treatment. PMID:24868332

  3. Penile low-intensity shock wave therapy: a promising novel modality for erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Abu-Ghanem, Yasmin; Kitrey, Noam D; Gruenwald, Ilan; Appel, Boaz; Vardi, Yoram

    2014-05-01

    Penile extracorporeal low-intensity shock wave therapy (LIST) to the penis has recently emerged as a novel and promising modality in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). LIST has angiogenic properties and stimulates neovascularization. If applied to the corpora cavernosa, LIST can improve penile blood flow and endothelial function. In a series of clinical trials, including randomized double-blind sham-controlled studies, LIST has been shown to have a substantial effect on penile hemodynamics and erectile function in patients with vasculogenic ED. LIST is effective in patients who are responsive to phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) and can also convert PDE5i nonresponders to responders. The response to LIST wanes gradually over time, and after 2 years, about half of the patients maintain their function. Extensive research is needed to understand the effect of LIST on erectile tissue, to modify the treatment protocol to maximize its outcomes, and to identify the patients who will benefit the most from this treatment.

  4. [Evaluation of visual stimulation combined with intracavernous injections for the treatment of severe erectile dysfunction].

    PubMed

    Galiano, Marc; Rouprêt, Morgan; Beley, Sébastien; Gattegno, Bernard; Chartier-Kastler, Emmanuel; Richard, François

    2007-04-01

    To assess the value of visual sexual stimulation combined with intracavernous injections (ICI) in patients treated for severe erectile dysfunction. All patients with severe erectile dysfunction were prospectively included in this study between 2005 and 2006. The outpatient protocol consisted of comparing the efficacy of alprostadil ICI alone on D0 and ICI combined with erotic stimulation on D8. End-points were: time to onset and rigidity of erection. A subjective score (1 to 5) was used to quantify erection. Forty patients with a mean age of 64.5 years (range: 52-70 years) were included in the study. All patients had an IIEF5 score less than 15. Erectile dysfunction was secondary to urological surgery in 35% of cases. The mean time to onset of erection was 10 min 18 s (range: 2-20 min) on D0 and 10 min 50 s (range: 2-20 min) on D8. No significant difference for rigidity and quality of erection was observed between D0 and D8 and erections were scored as 5 in 30 cases (75%), 4 in 8 cases (20%) and 3 in 2 cases (5%) at each visit. Visual sexual stimulation has not been demonstrated to be truly effective in the hospital setting in combination with intracavernous injections. In order to increase the patient satisfaction rate, the urologist must above all educate the patient in the intracavernous injection technique in an appropriate environment.

  5. [Nebido in the treatment of hypogonadism syndrome and its complications in men].

    PubMed

    Dedov, I I; Kurbatov, D G; Rozhivanov, R V; Lepetukhin, A E; Dubskiĭ, S A; Goncharov, N P

    2011-01-01

    The article presents original experience with use of undecanoate (nebido, BayerHealthcare Pharmaceuticals, Germany) in androgenic testosteron replacement therapy in males with hypogonadism. Prospective studies of nebido efficacy were made in males with vein-occlusive erectile dysfunction (n = 20), chronic pelvic pain syndrome (n = 77), metabolic syndrome (n = 170). Retrospective studies assessed efficacy of nebido monotherapy in patients with erectile dysfunction and hypogonadism (n = 34), hematological and urological safety of the drug (n = 40). Laboratory monitoring was performed in all the studies according to ISSAM recommendations. The patients were not included in contraindications to androgenic therapy. Nebido treatment significantly improved libido and erectile function, efficacy of phosphodiesterase of type 5 inhibiors used in moderate and severe erectile dysfunction. Depressive, asthenic, pain symptoms declined in males with chronic pelvic pain. Body fat reduced in metabolic syndrome with alleviation of its other components. Insignificant rise of hemoglobin level and packed cell volume was observed in some patients while a PSA level increase was clinically significant in 10% patients who had initial PSA > 2.5 ng/ml and acromegalia. Also, nebido depressed production of gonadotropins and spermatogenesis. Thus, nebido is highly effective in sexual dysfunction and other somatic disorders caused by hypogonadism. Nebido does not induce severe side effects, but clinically significant rise of PSA level requires treatment discontinuation and more careful urological examination. In view of nebido ability to suppress spermatogenesis, the drug should not be used in reproductively active men.

  6. Using gene chips to identify organ-specific, smooth muscle responses to experimental diabetes: potential applications to urological diseases.

    PubMed

    Hipp, Jason D; Davies, Kelvin P; Tar, Moses; Valcic, Mira; Knoll, Abraham; Melman, Arnold; Christ, George J

    2007-02-01

    To identify early diabetes-related alterations in gene expression in bladder and erectile tissue that would provide novel diagnostic and therapeutic treatment targets to prevent, delay or ameliorate the ensuing bladder and erectile dysfunction. The RG-U34A rat GeneChip (Affymetrix Inc., Sunnyvale, CA, USA) oligonucleotide microarray (containing approximately 8799 genes) was used to evaluate gene expression in corporal and male bladder tissue excised from rats 1 week after confirmation of a diabetic state, but before demonstrable changes in organ function in vivo. A conservative analytical approach was used to detect alterations in gene expression, and gene ontology (GO) classifications were used to identify biological themes/pathways involved in the aetiology of the organ dysfunction. In all, 320 and 313 genes were differentially expressed in bladder and corporal tissue, respectively. GO analysis in bladder tissue showed prominent increases in biological pathways involved in cell proliferation, metabolism, actin cytoskeleton and myosin, as well as decreases in cell motility, and regulation of muscle contraction. GO analysis in corpora showed increases in pathways related to ion channel transport and ion channel activity, while there were decreases in collagen I and actin genes. The changes in gene expression in these initial experiments are consistent with the pathophysiological characteristics of the bladder and erectile dysfunction seen later in the diabetic disease process. Thus, the observed changes in gene expression might be harbingers or biomarkers of impending organ dysfunction, and could provide useful diagnostic and therapeutic targets for a variety of progressive urological diseases/conditions (i.e. lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, etc.).

  7. What happened?

    PubMed Central

    Katz, Anne

    2005-01-01

    OBJECTIVE To describe the sexual consequences of prostate cancer and its treatments (prostatectomy, external beam radiation, brachytherapy, androgen deprivation therapy) and to suggest treatments for sexual side effects of these therapies. QUALITY OF EVIDENCE Most studies of the sexual consequences of prostate cancer treatments and studies of therapy for these side effects provide level II evidence. MAIN MESSAGE Diagnosis of prostate cancer in itself can cause sexual dysfunction. All forms of treatment for this cancer cause serious sexual problems for men. Treatments for the erectile dysfunction that results have varying success rates. Prostatectomy has been shown to cause erectile dysfunction in 30% to 98% of men, depending on whether both, one, or neither nerve bundles was spared. Radiation therapy results in erectile dysfunction in more than 70% of those treated; brachytherapy produces the least amount of sexual deficit. Hormone ablation therapy has serious consequences: more than 80% of men report loss of erections at 1 year after therapy in addition to profound loss of libido. CONCLUSION Family physicians are ideally placed to provide anticipatory guidance to men with prostate cancer on the sexual consequences of both the cancer and its treatments. Family physicians can also assist men and their partners in managing these sexual side effects. PMID:16060176

  8. Concurrent relations among cigarette smoking status, resting heart rate variability, and erectile response.

    PubMed

    Harte, Christopher B

    2014-05-01

    Heart rate variability (HRV) is a marker of sympathovagal balance; it has been implicated in erectile function and is also altered by tobacco use. Furthermore, smoking and erectile health are strongly related, given that smokers are at increased risk for erectile dysfunction. Few studies have explored the interrelationships between smoking, HRV, and erectile function concurrently. The aim of this study was to examine potential mechanisms underlying tobacco's effects on penile hemodynamics by exploring the mediating role of HRV. The sample comprised 119 men (smokers = 64; nonsmokers = 55) (mean age 28.90 years; standard deviation (SD) 11.68; range 18-58) selected from the control conditions of three previously published experiments. Participants were free from a history of cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarct, and/or cardiac/cardiovascular medication use. During a laboratory visit, self-report, anthropometric, cardiovascular, and electrocardiographic data were assessed, as well as sexual arousal responses elicited from viewing an erotic film. Objective sexual arousal indices (circumferential change via penile plethysmography), self-reported erectile function (per the erectile function domain score of the International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF-EF]), and time- (SD of beat-to-beat intervals) and frequency-domain parameters of HRV (ratio of low-frequency [LF] power to high-frequency [HF] power [LF/HF ratio]) were assessed. Being a current long-term cigarette smoker was associated with dysregulated sympathovagal balance (higher LF/HF ratios, indicative of sympathetic nervous system dominance), which in turn showed inverse relations with magnitude of erectile tumescence. HRV did not mediate relations between tobacco use and either IIEF-EF scores or resting penile circumference. Findings suggest that dysfunctional cardiac autonomic tone may be an underlying mechanism by which tobacco exerts its deleterious effects on erectile health. Further research is necessary to determine whether this relationship is mechanistic in nature, or whether it is better explained by other health factors. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  9. Is there a link between soft drinks and erectile dysfunction?

    PubMed

    Adamowicz, Jan; Drewa, Tomasz

    2011-01-01

    This review focuses on the potential role of soft drinks, particularly the sugar component, in the pathogenesis of erectile dysfunction (ED). We analyzed the hypothetical link between metabolic disorders, induced by sweetened soft drinks overconsumption, and ED. High caloric intake, high refined-carbohydrates, and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) content and less satiety are main factors responsible for metabolic disorders contributing to ED development. Regular diet mistakes among human males, such as soft drink consumption, may lead to slow and asymptomatic progression of ED, finally resulting in full claimed manifestation of ED.

  10. Visual Stimulation Facilitates Penile Responses to Vibration in Men with and without Erectile Disorder.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Janssen, Erick; And Others

    1994-01-01

    Compared reflexogenic and psychogenic penile responses in men with and without erectile disorder. Hypothesized that men with psychogenic dysfunction respond minimally to vibrotactile stimulation. As predicted, responses were different in the vibration condition. Interpretations are provided in terms of attention and appraisal. (BF)

  11. Radiation dose delivered to the proximal penis as a predictor of the risk of erectile dysfunction after three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wernicke, A. Gabriella; Valicenti, Richard; DiEva, Kelly

    2004-12-01

    Purpose/objective: In this study, we evaluated in a serial manner whether radiation dose to the bulb of the penis is predictive of erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory difficulty (EJ), and overall satisfaction with sex life (quality of life) by using serial validated self-administered questionnaires. Methods and materials: Twenty-nine potent men with AJCC Stage II prostate cancer treated with three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy alone to a median dose 72.0 Gy (range: 66.6-79.2 Gy) were evaluated by determining the doses received by the penile bulb. The penile bulb was delineated volumetrically, and the dose-volume histogram was obtained on each patient. Results: The median follow-upmore » time was 35 months (range, 16-43 months). We found that for D{sub 30}, D{sub 45}, D{sub 60}, and D{sub 75} (doses to a percent volume of PB: 30%, 45%, 60%, and 75%), higher than the corresponding median dose (defined as high-dose group) correlated with an increased risk of impotence (erectile dysfunction firmness score = 0) (odds ratio [OR] = 7.5, p = 0.02; OR = 7.5, p = 0.02; OR = 8.6, p = 0.008; and OR = 6.9, p = 0.015, respectively). Similarly, for EJD D{sub 30}, D{sub 45}, D{sub 60}, and D{sub 75}, doses higher than the corresponding median ones correlated with worsening ejaculatory function score (EJ = 0 or 1) (OR = 8, p = 0.013; OR = 8, p 0.013; OR = 9.2, p = 0.015; and OR = 8, p = 0.026, respectively). For quality of life, low ({<=}median dose) dose groups of patients improve over time, whereas high-dose groups of patients worsen. Conclusions: This study supports the existence of a penile bulb dose-volume relationship underlying the development of radiation-induced erectile dysfunction. Our data may guide the use of inverse treatment planning to maximize the probability of maintaining sexual potency after radiation therapy.« less

  12. Hypercholesterolemia-induced erectile dysfunction: endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) uncoupling in the mouse penis by NAD(P)H oxidase

    PubMed Central

    Musicki, Biljana; Liu, Tongyun; Lagoda, Gwen A.; Strong, Travis D.; Sezen, Sena F.; Johnson, Justin M.; Burnett, Arthur L.

    2010-01-01

    INTRODUCTION Hypercholesterolemia induces erectile dysfunction (ED) mostly by increasing oxidative stress and impairing endothelial function in the penis, but the mechanisms regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the penis are not understood. AIMS We evaluated whether hypercholesterolemia activates nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAD[P]H) oxidase in the penis, providing an initial source of ROS to induce endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) uncoupling and endothelial dysfunction resulting in ED. METHODS Low-density-lipoprotein receptor (LDLR)–null mice were fed Western diet for 4 weeks to induce early-stage hyperlipidemia. Wild type (WT) mice fed regular chow served as controls. Mice received NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitor apocynin (10 mM in drinking water) or vehicle. Erectile function was assessed in response to cavernous nerve electrical stimulation. Markers of endothelial function (phospho [P]-vasodilator-stimulated-protein [VASP]-Ser-239), oxidative stress (4-hydroxy-2-nonenal [HNE]), sources of ROS (eNOS uncoupling and NAD[P]H oxidase subunits p67phox, p47phox, and gp91phox), P-eNOS-Ser-1177, and eNOS were measured by Western blot in penes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Molecular mechanisms of ROS generation and endothelial dysfunction in hypercholesterolemia-induced ED. RESULTS Erectile response was significantly (P<0.05) reduced in hypercholesterolemic LDLR-null mice compared to WT mice. Relative to WT mice, hypercholesterolemia increased (P<0.05) protein expressions of NAD(P)H oxidase subunits p67phox, p47phox and gp91phox, eNOS uncoupling, and 4-HNE-modified proteins, and reduced (P<0.05) P-VASP-Ser-239 expression in the penis. Apocynin treatment of LDLR-null mice preserved (P<0.05) maximal intracavernosal pressure, and reversed (P < 0.05) the abnormalities in protein expressions of gp67phox and gp47phox, 4-HNE, P-VASP-Ser-239, and eNOS uncoupling in the penis. Apocynin treatment of WT mice did not affect any of these parameters. Protein expressions of P-eNOS-Ser-1177 and total eNOS were unaffected by hypercholesterolemia. CONCLUSION Activated NAD(P)H oxidase in the penis is an initial source of oxidative stress resulting in eNOS uncoupling, thus providing a mechanism of eNOS uncoupling and endothelial dysfunction in hypercholesterolemia-induced ED. PMID:20626609

  13. Gas what: NO is not the only answer to sexual function

    PubMed Central

    Yetik-Anacak, G; Sorrentino, R; Linder, A E; Murat, N

    2015-01-01

    The ability to get and keep an erection is important to men for several reasons and the inability is known as erectile dysfunction (ED). ED has started to be accepted as an early indicator of systemic endothelial dysfunction and subsequently of cardiovascular diseases. The role of NO in endothelial relaxation and erectile function is well accepted. The discovery of NO as a small signalling gasotransmitter led to the investigation of the role of other endogenously derived gases, carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. The role of NO and CO in sexual function and dysfunction has been investigated more extensively and, recently, the involvement of H2S in erectile function has also been confirmed. In this review, we focus on the role of these three sister gasotransmitters in the physiology, pharmacology and pathophysiology of sexual function in man, specifically erectile function. We have also reviewed the role of soluble guanylyl cyclase/cGMP pathway as a common target of these gasotransmitters. Several studies have proposed alternative therapies targeting different mechanisms in addition to PDE-5 inhibition for ED treatment, since some patients do not respond to these drugs. This review highlights complementary and possible coordinated roles for these mediators and treatments targeting these gasotransmitters in erectile function/ED. Linked Articles This article is part of a themed section on Pharmacology of the Gasotransmitters. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-6 PMID:24661203

  14. Erectile function post robotic radical prostatectomy: technical tips to improve outcomes?

    PubMed

    Goonewardene, S S; Persad, R; Gillatt, D

    2016-09-01

    Robotic surgery is becoming more and more commonplace. At the same time, so are complications, especially related to erectile function. The population being diagnosed with cancer is younger, with more aggressive cancers and higher expectations for good erectile function postoperatively. We conduct a retrospective analysis of literature over 20 years for Embase and Medline. Search terms used include (Robotic) AND (prostatectomy) AND (erectile function). There are a variety of multifactorial causes, resulting in worsening ED post-robotic radical prostatectomy; however, there are a number of treatments that can support this. There is much we can do to help prevent patients getting postoperative erectile dysfunction post-radical surgery. However, part of this is management of realistic patient expectations.

  15. Mechanistic link between erectile dysfunction and systemic endothelial dysfunction in type 2 diabetic rats

    PubMed Central

    Musicki, Biljana; Hannan, Johanna L.; Lagoda, Gwen; Bivalacqua, Trinity J.; Burnett, Arthur L.

    2016-01-01

    Men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and erectile dysfunction (ED) have greater risk of cardiovascular events than T2DM men without ED, suggesting ED as a predictor of cardiovascular events in diabetic men. However, molecular mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction in the diabetic penis explaining these clinical observations are not known. We evaluated whether the temporal relationship between ED and endothelial dysfunction in the systemic vasculature in T2DM involves earlier redox imbalance and endothelial nitric oxidase synthase (eNOS) dysfunction in the penis than in the systemic vasculature, such as the carotid artery. Rats were rendered T2DM by high-fat diet for 2 weeks, followed by an injection with low-dose streptozotocin. After 3 weeks, erectile function (intracavernosal pressure) was measured and penes and carotid arteries were collected for molecular analyses of eNOS uncoupling, protein S-glutathionylation, oxidative stress (4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, 4-HNE), protein expression of NADPH oxidase subunit gp91phox, endothelium-dependent vasodilation in the carotid artery, and non-andrenergic, non-cholinergic (NANC) mediated cavernosal relaxation. Erectile response to electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve and NANC mediated cavernosal relaxation were decreased (p<0.05), while relaxation of the carotid artery to acetylcholine was not impaired in T2DM rats. eNOS monomerization, protein expressions of 4-HNE and gp91phox, and protein S-glutathionylation, were increased (p<0.05) in the penis, but not in the carotid artery, of T2DM compared to nondiabetic rats. In conclusion, redox imbalance, increased oxidative stress by NADPH oxidase, and eNOS uncoupling, occur early in T2DM in the penis, but not in the carotid artery. These molecular changes contribute to T2DM ED, while vascular function in the systemic vasculature remains preserved. PMID:27153512

  16. Time of Decline in Sexual Function After External Beam Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Siglin, Joshua; Kubicek, Gregory J.; Leiby, Benjamin

    Purpose: Erectile dysfunction is one of the most concerning toxicities for patients in the treatment of prostate cancer. The inconsistent evaluation of sexual function (SF) and limited follow-up data have necessitated additional study to clarify the rate and timing of erectile dysfunction after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for prostate cancer. Methods and Materials: A total of 143 men completed baseline data on SF before treatment and at the subsequent follow-up visits. A total of 1187 validated SF inventories were analyzed from the study participants. Multiple domains of SF (sex drive, erectile function, ejaculatory function, and overall satisfaction) were analyzed formore » <=8 years of follow-up. Results: The median follow-up was 4.03 years. The strongest predictor of SF after EBRT was SF before treatment. For all domains of SF, the only statistically significant decrease in function occurred in the first 24 months after EBRT. SF stabilized 2 years after treatment completion, with no statistically significant change in any area of SF >2 years after the end of EBRT. Conclusion: These data suggest that SF does not have a continuous decline after EBRT. Instead, SF decreases maximally within the first 24 months after EBRT, with no significant changes thereafter.« less

  17. Neuroprotective and Nerve Regenerative Approaches for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction after Cavernous Nerve Injury

    PubMed Central

    Campbell, Jeffrey D.; Burnett, Arthur L.

    2017-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant cause of reduced quality of life in men and their partners. Cavernous nerve injury (CNI) during pelvic surgery results in ED in greater than 50% of patients, regardless of additional patient factors. ED related to CNI is difficult to treat and typically poorly responsive to first- and second-line therapeutic options. Recently, a significant amount of research has been devoted to exploring neuroprotective and neuroregenerative approaches to salvage erectile function in patients with CNI. In addition, therapeutic options such as neuregulins, immunophilin ligands, gene therapy, stem cell therapy and novel surgical strategies, have shown benefit in pre-clinical, and limited clinical studies. In the era of personalized medicine, these new therapeutic technologies will be the future of ED treatment and are described in this review. PMID:28820434

  18. One patient out of four with newly diagnosed erectile dysfunction is a young man--worrisome picture from the everyday clinical practice.

    PubMed

    Capogrosso, Paolo; Colicchia, Michele; Ventimiglia, Eugenio; Castagna, Giulia; Clementi, Maria Chiara; Suardi, Nazareno; Castiglione, Fabio; Briganti, Alberto; Cantiello, Francesco; Damiano, Rocco; Montorsi, Francesco; Salonia, Andrea

    2013-07-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complaint in men over 40 years of age, and prevalence rates increase throughout the aging period. Prevalence and risk factors of ED among young men have been scantly analyzed. Assessing sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of young men (defined as ≤ 40 years) seeking first medical help for new onset ED as their primary sexual disorder. Complete sociodemographic and clinical data from 439 consecutive patients were analyzed. Health-significant comorbidities were scored with the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Patients completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Descriptive statistics tested sociodemographic and clinical differences between ED patients ≤ 40 years and >40 years. New onset ED as the primary disorder was found in 114 (26%) men ≤ 40 years (mean [standard deviation [SD

  19. Ability to Reach Orgasm in Patients With Prostate Cancer Treated With Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy.

    PubMed

    Østby-Deglum, Marie; Axcrona, Karol; Brennhovd, Bjørn; Dahl, Alv A

    2016-06-01

    To study the ability to reach orgasm after robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) in relation to demographic, cancer-related, and surgical variables, and the use of erectile aids. In this cross-sectional study at a mean of 3 years after RALP at Oslo University Hospital, 982 men were invited to complete a mailed questionnaire, and 777 responded. Respondents who reported postoperative radiotherapy or hormone treatment, or did not report on orgasm were omitted, leaving 609 patients for analysis. Ability to reach orgasm was rated on 1 question from The Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite 26-item version, and dichotomized into "good" or "poor." Overall, 27% of the men reported good ability to reach orgasm: 22% among those did not use erectile aids and 34% among those did (P = .001). Univariate analysis of men with good versus poor ability to reach orgasm showed many significant differences. In multivariate analysis, being older, having a reduced physical quality of life, and erectile dysfunction were significantly associated with poor ability to reach orgasm. Erectile dysfunction showed an odds ratio of 4.86 for poor orgasmic ability. The 48% of men who used erectile aids had significantly better orgasmic ability than the nonusers. In our sample, 27% had good ability to reach orgasm at a mean of 3 years after RALP. Poor orgasmic ability was associated with being older, poor erectile function, and a reduced physical quality of life. Using erectile aids increased the rate of good ability to reach orgasm. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. A novel experimental model of erectile dysfunction in rats with heart failure using volume overload

    PubMed Central

    Silva, Fábio Henrique; Veiga, Frederico José Reis; Mora, Aline Gonçalves; Heck, Rodrigo Sader; De Oliveira, Caroline Candida; Gambero, Alessandra; Franco-Penteado, Carla Fernanda; Antunes, Edson; Gardner, Jason D.; Priviero, Fernanda Bruschi Marinho

    2017-01-01

    Background Patients with heart failure (HF) display erectile dysfunction (ED). However, the pathophysiology of ED during HF remains poorly investigated. Objective This study aimed to characterize the aortocaval fistula (ACF) rat model associated with HF as a novel experimental model of ED. We have undertaken molecular and functional studies to evaluate the alterations of the nitric oxide (NO) pathway, autonomic nervous system and oxidative stress in the penis. Methods Male rats were submitted to ACF for HF induction. Intracavernosal pressure in anesthetized rats was evaluated. Concentration-response curves to contractile (phenylephrine) and relaxant agents (sodium nitroprusside; SNP), as well as to electrical field stimulation (EFS), were obtained in the cavernosal smooth muscle (CSM) strips from sham and HF rats. Protein expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) and phosphodiestarese-5 in CSM were evaluated, as well as NOX2 (gp91phox) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) mRNA expression. SOD activity and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) were also performed in plasma. Results HF rats display erectile dysfunction represented by decreased ICP responses compared to sham rats. The neurogenic contractile responses elicited by EFS were greater in CSM from the HF group. Likewise, phenylephrine-induced contractions were greater in CSM from HF rats. Nitrergic response induced by EFS were decreased in the cavernosal tissue, along with lower eNOS, nNOS and phosphodiestarese-5 protein expressions. An increase of NOX2 and SOD mRNA expression in CSM and plasma TBARs of HF group were detected. Plasma SOD activity was decreased in HF rats. Conclusion ED in HF rats is associated with decreased NO bioavailability in erectile tissue due to eNOS/nNOS dowregulation and NOX2 upregulation, as well as hypercontractility of the penis. This rat model of ACF could be a useful tool to evaluate the molecular alterations of ED associated with HF. PMID:29095897

  1. Validity of midday total testosterone levels in older men with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Welliver, R Charles; Wiser, Herbert J; Brannigan, Robert E; Feia, Kendall; Monga, Manoj; Köhler, Tobias S

    2014-07-01

    Based on studies showing the circadian rhythmicity of testosterone the optimal time of day to draw total testosterone in men has classically been reported as between 8 and 11 a.m. However, further studies demonstrated that the testosterone circadian rhythmicity becomes blunted with age. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 2,569 men who presented with erectile dysfunction for total testosterone and draw times. We compared the men by age group, including less than 40 years and 5-year groupings after age 40 years. Total testosterone was analyzed for variability during the most common draw time hours (7 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Mean total testosterone at 7 to 9 a.m. and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. clinically and statistically differed only in men younger than 40 vs 40 to 44 years old (mean difference 207 ng/dl, 95% CI 98-315, p = 0.0004 vs 149 ng/dl, 95% CI 36-262, p = 0.01). No other group showed a clinically and statistically significant difference between those periods. Total testosterone in men with erectile dysfunction who are younger than 45 years should be drawn as close to 7 a.m. as possible because a statistically and clinically relevant decrease in testosterone will occur during the course of the day. Men older than 45 years with erectile dysfunction can have total testosterone drawn at any time before 2 p.m. without misleading results. Copyright © 2014 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Outcome of penile revascularization for arteriogenic erectile dysfunction after pelvic fracture urethral injuries.

    PubMed

    Zuckerman, Jack M; McCammon, Kurt A; Tisdale, Britton E; Colen, Larry; Uroskie, Ted; McAdams, Paul; Jordan, Gerald H

    2012-12-01

    To review our experience with penile revascularization for patients with bilateral occlusion of the deep internal pudendal arteries after pelvic fracture urethral injury (PFUI). We identified 17 patients who had undergone penile revascularization with end-to-side anastomosis of the deep inferior epigastric artery to the dorsal penile artery from July 1991 to December 2010. Success was defined as achieving erections sufficient for intercourse with or without pharmacologic assistance. All patients had had a PFUI causing arterial insufficiency and erectile dysfunction not responsive to pharmacologic intervention. Of the 17 patients, 4 (24%) underwent revascularization before and 13 (76%) after PFUI repair. The mean age at revascularization was 32.7 years (range 17-54). At an average follow-up of 3.1 years, the surgery was successful in 14 of the 17 patients (82%). In patients with erectile dysfunction as an indication for surgery, successful erections were achieved in 11 of 13. For those who underwent revascularization to prevent ischemic stenosis of the urethral repair, 3 of 4 achieved successful erections, and all subsequent urethral surgeries were successful. The penile duplex ultrasound parameters showed clinically and statistically significant improvements after revascularization. No operative complications developed. The average hospital length of stay was 4.7 days. Four patients experienced early postoperative complications, including an abdominal wall hematoma requiring evacuation in one, penile edema in two, and a superficial surgical site infection in one. No late complications occurred. Penile arterial revascularization in select patients can allow for successful treatment of PFUIs and the refractory erectile dysfunction caused by them. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Sexual healing in patients with prostate cancer on hormone therapy.

    PubMed

    Schover, Leslie R

    2015-01-01

    Since prostate cancer becomes more common with age, at least one-third of men have sexual problems at diagnosis. All localized treatments for prostate cancer greatly increase the prevalence of sexual dysfunction, which include loss of desire, erectile dysfunction, and changes in orgasm. Even men on active surveillance have a higher rate of problems than matched peers without prostate cancer. However, men given androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) have the worst rates of sexual dysfunction. Even after 3 to 4 months of ADT, men's desire for sex is decreased and irreversible damage may occur to the erectile tissue in the penis. Erections do not recover in about one-half of men, even if ADT is discontinued. Although intermittent ADT allows some recovery of sexual function, serum testosterone requires 9 to 12 months off ADT to recover. Again, one-half of men have permanent erectile dysfunction. If ADT causes atrophy of the erectile tissue, blood leaks out of the venous system during erection. This syndrome is difficult to treat except with surgery to implant a penile prosthesis. Despite the high rate of sexual problems in men on ADT, a small group stays sexually active and is able to have reliable erections. To improve men's sexual satisfaction on ADT, it may be important to educate them about getting extra mental and physical sexual stimulation, as well as using penile rehabilitation during hormone therapy. Information on reaching orgasm and coping with problems such as dry orgasm, pain with orgasm, and urinary incontinence during sex also should be provided.

  4. Role of nocturnal penile erection test on response to daily sildenafil in patients with erectile dysfunction due to pelvic fracture urethral disruption: a single-center experience.

    PubMed

    Peng, Jing; Zhang, Zhichao; Cui, Wanshou; Yuan, Yiming; Gao, Bing; Song, Weidong; Xin, Zhongcheng

    2014-12-01

    To evaluate the results of nocturnal penile erection test and response to daily sildenafil in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) due to pelvic fracture urethral disruption. From January 2010 to January 2012, we included 38 patients with ED due to pelvic fracture urethral disruption. The mean age was 33.1 years (range, 22-49 years). All were evaluated subjectively and objectively by the International Index of Erectile Function-5, nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR) test, and penile Doppler ultrasonography. Patients received daily sildenafil 50 mg for 3 months. Thirty-one patients were followed up: 54.8% showed response to sildenafil defined as reporting successful vaginal penetration and intercourse. Patients with neurogenic, arterial, and venous EDs did not differ in efficiency rates (P = .587). However, the penile erectile rigidity recorded by NPTR test affected efficiency significantly (P = .046). Patients with tip rigidity >40% had the highest response rate (76.9%), but the response rate for patients with tip rigidity <20% was only 22.2%. NPTR recording can reveal resident erectile function in patients with ED due to trauma and is significant for selecting pharmacologic treatment as optimal therapy. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. The efficacy and safety of on-demand Elonza; a generic product of sildenafil in Thai men with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Wijitsettakul, Udomsak; Pempongkosol, Sompol

    2013-06-01

    To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Elonza (generic product of sildenafil) 100 mg, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, in Thai men with erectile dysfunction (ED). This prospective, Cohort study was conducted for eight weeks. Two hundred ten male patients, older than 20 years of age with ED were enrolled to receive generic product of sildenafil 100 mg taken as needed. Efficacy is evaluated through the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores for the five separate response domains, erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction domain. After sildenafil administration, erectile function domain scores were significantly increased from baseline, 5.02 (p < 0.001) and 7.19 (p < 0.001) in one month and two months, respectively. Intercourse satisfaction domain scores and overall satisfaction domain scores were significantly increased from baseline, 3.17 (p < 0.001) and 1.74 (p < 0.001) in two months, respectively. Most treatment emergent adverse events were mild or moderate. The most frequent treatment-emergent adverse events were flushing (13.2%), nasal congestion (9.8%), abnormal vision (4.9%), headache (4.4%), dizziness (2.9%), and dyspepsia (0.5%). Elonza, a generic product of sildenafil, was an effective and well-tolerated treatment for ED in Thai men.

  6. Oral Health and Erectile Dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Singh, Vijendra P; Nettemu, Sunil K; Nettem, Sowmya; Hosadurga, Rajesh; Nayak, Sangeeta U

    2017-01-01

    Ample evidence strongly supports the fact that periodontal disease is a major risk factor for various systemic diseases namely cardio-vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, etc. Recently, investigators focussed on exploring the link between chronic periodontitis (CP) and erectile dysfunction (ED) by contributing to the endothelial dysfunction. Both the diseases share common risk factors. Various studies conducted in different parts of the world in recent years reported the evidence linking this relationship as well as improvement in ED with periodontal treatment. Systemic exposure to the periodontal pathogen and periodontal infection-induced systemic inflammation was thought to associate with these conditions. The objective of this review was to highlight the evidence of the link between CP and ED and the importance of oral health in preventing the systemic conditions.

  7. Oral Health and Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Singh, Vijendra P.; Nettemu, Sunil K.; Nettem, Sowmya; Hosadurga, Rajesh; Nayak, Sangeeta U.

    2017-01-01

    Ample evidence strongly supports the fact that periodontal disease is a major risk factor for various systemic diseases namely cardio-vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, etc. Recently, investigators focussed on exploring the link between chronic periodontitis (CP) and erectile dysfunction (ED) by contributing to the endothelial dysfunction. Both the diseases share common risk factors. Various studies conducted in different parts of the world in recent years reported the evidence linking this relationship as well as improvement in ED with periodontal treatment. Systemic exposure to the periodontal pathogen and periodontal infection-induced systemic inflammation was thought to associate with these conditions. The objective of this review was to highlight the evidence of the link between CP and ED and the importance of oral health in preventing the systemic conditions. PMID:29142443

  8. Post-Translational Modification of Constitutive Nitric Oxide Synthase in the Penis

    PubMed Central

    Musicki, Biljana; Ross, Ashley E.; Champion, Hunter C.; Burnett, Arthur L.; Bivalacqua, Trinity J.

    2009-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common men's health problem characterized by the consistent inability to sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Basic science research on erectile physiology has been devoted to investigating the pathogenesis of ED and has led to the conclusion that ED is predominately a disease of vascular origin and/or neurogenic dysfunction. The constitutive forms of nitric oxide synthase [NOS; endothelial NOS (eNOS) and neuronal NOS (nNOS)] are important enzymes involved in the production of nitric oxide (NO) and thus regulate penile vascular homeostasis. Given the impact of endothelial- and neuronal-derived NO in penile vascular biology, a great deal of research over the past decade has focused on the role of NO synthesis from the endothelium and nitrergic nerve terminal in normal erectile physiology as well as in disease states. Loss of the functional integrity of the endothelium and subsequent endothelial dysfunction plays an integral role in the occurrence of ED. Therefore, molecular mechanisms involved in dysregulation of these NOS isoforms in the development of ED are essential to discovering the pathogenesis of ED in various disease states. This communication reviews the role of eNOS and nNOS in erectile physiology and discusses the alterations in eNOS and nNOS via post-translation modification in various vascular diseases of the penis. PMID:19342700

  9. [Evaluation of the management of erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction in a series of 90 patients with spinal cord injuries].

    PubMed

    Hadiji, N; Benbouzid, R; Previnaire, J G; Leblond, C; Mieusset, R; Enjalbert, M; Soler, J M

    2013-12-01

    To evaluate the erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory on patients injured in conus medullaris (CMI) and the efficacy of treatment. Ninety patients with injured conus medullaris underwent a retrospective and monocentric study. They have all an assessment of erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) and a clinic scenario. We evaluated the erection by a clinical scoring scale (Shrameck). Seventy-seven out of 90 (85.55%) had therapeutic tests to restore erection: prostaglandin (PGE1), phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5) and Papaverine. Seventy-four out of 90 (82.22%) underwent a penile stimulation tests (VM) more or less associated with Midodrine(®) (alpha mimetic) to cause ejaculation with a systematic search of spermatozoa in urine. Data were entered and analyzed using Microsoft Office Excel. Ninety patients with a complete lesion of the sacral metameres (S2S3S4) were included. They were responding to PGE1, PDE5, respectively 81.63% and 30.76%. The association VM/Midodrine(®) improves ejaculation in 52.63% of cases. Orgasm is absent in all our CMI. In this series of BCM patients, we observed a good efficacy of PGE1 and PDE 5 on erection. We also observed positive results of vibromassage and alpha-agonists on ejaculation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  10. Expression of the apelin-APJ pathway and effects on erectile function in a mouse model of vasculogenic erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Kwon, Mi-Hye; Tuvshintur, Buyankhuu; Kim, Woo Jean; Jin, Hai-Rong; Yin, Guo Nan; Song, Kang-Moon; Choi, Min Ji; Kwon, Ki-Dong; Batbold, Dulguun; Ryu, Ji-Kan; Suh, Jun-Kyu

    2013-12-01

    Much attention has recently been focused on therapeutic angiogenesis as a treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). The apelin and apelin receptor (APJ) system is known to cause endothelium-dependent vasodilatation and to be involved in angiogenesis. To examine the differential expression of apelin and APJ in animal models of vasculogenic ED and to determine whether and how enhancement of apelin-APJ signaling restores erectile function in hypercholesterolemic mice. Acute cavernous ischemia was induced in C57BL/6J mice by bilateral occlusion of internal iliac arteries, and chronic vasculogenic ED was induced by feeding a high-cholesterol diet or by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of apelin and APJ were determined in cavernous tissue of each vasculogenic ED model by semiquantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We evaluated erectile function by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve in hypercholesterolemic mice 1, 3, 7, and 14 days after a single intracavernous injection of apelin protein (5 μg/20 μL). The penis was harvested for histologic examinations and Western blot analysis. The cavernous mRNA expression of apelin and APJ was up-regulated in acute ischemia model and down-regulated in chronic vasculogenic ED models. A significant restoration of erectile function was noted 1 day after injection of apelin protein into the penis of hypercholesterolemic mice; however, erectile function returned to baseline values thereafter. The beneficial effects of apelin on erectile function resulted mainly from an activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and increase in nitric oxide bioavailability through reduction in reactive oxygen species-mediated endothelial apoptosis rather than through direct endothelial cell proliferation. These findings suggest that apelin-APJ signaling is a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of vasculogenic ED. Further studies are needed to develop a potent agonist for APJ and to determine the role of repeated dosing of apelin on long-term recovery of erectile function. © 2013 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  11. Seventeen years' experience of penile fracture: conservative vs. surgical treatment.

    PubMed

    Yapanoglu, Turgut; Aksoy, Yilmaz; Adanur, Senol; Kabadayi, Bariş; Ozturk, Gurkan; Ozbey, Isa

    2009-07-01

    Penile fracture is the rupture of the tunica of one or both corpora cavernosa due to direct blunt trauma to the erected penis. Partial or complete rupture of the urethra or injury to the deep dorsal vein may accompany penile fracture. To compare conservative and surgical treatment modalities in terms of duration of hospitalization, early and late complications such as penile nodule and curvature, erectile dysfunction, and painful erection. Treatment results and complications in two groups were evaluated with history and physical examination, and International Index of Erectile Function-5 Questionnaire was used for erectile function assessment. Methods. The charts of 42 men diagnosed with penile fracture were retrospectively reviewed, and two treatment modalities were compared: conservative (Group I) and surgical (Group II). Results. Between 1991 and 2008, a total of 42 patients with penile fracture were followed in our clinic for a mean of 18 months (range: 6-30 months). Five men who refused surgical treatment were treated conservatively, and the other 37 patients underwent surgical treatment. In Group II, the most common complication was painful erection (in 4 of 37 patients, 10.8 %), whereas in Group I, 80 % (4/5 patients) suffered complications such as wound infection, painful erection, penile nodule and curvature, and erectile dysfunction. Conclusion. Diagnosis of penile fracture can be based on history and physical examination; diagnostic tests such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging are generally not required. Fractures must be repaired either immediately or delayed. Because management with emergency surgical repair is the most effective approach, with the lowest complication rate, surgical treatment should be preferred compared to a conservative approach.

  12. Cardiovascular Implications of Erectile Dysfunction

    MedlinePlus

    ... the penis are not able to dilate during sexual stimulation because of endothelial dysfunction, the penis cannot fill ... blood to the penis to dilate better during sexual stimulation. The PDE5-Is decrease blood pressure a little ...

  13. Current concepts in the management of pelvic fracture urethral distraction defects

    PubMed Central

    Manikandan, Ramanitharan; Dorairajan, Lalgudi N.; Kumar, Santosh

    2011-01-01

    Objectives: Pelvic fracture urethral distraction defect (PFUDD) may be associated with disabling complications, such as recurrent stricture, urinary incontinence, and erectile dysfunction. In this article we review the current concepts in the evaluation and surgical management of PFUDD, including redo urethroplasty. Materials and Methods: A PubMed™ search was performed using the keywords “pelvic fracture urethral distraction defect, anastomotic urethroplasty, pelvic fracture urethral stricture, pelvic fracture urethral injuries, and redo-urethroplasty.” The search was limited to papers published from 1980 to March 2010 with special focus on those published in the last 15 years. The relevant articles were reviewed with regard to etiology, role of imaging, and the techniques of urethroplasty. Results: Pelvic fracture due to accidents was the most common etiology of PFUDD that usually involved the membranous urethra. Modern cross-sectional imaging, such as sonourethrography and magnetic resonance imaging help assess stricture pathology better, but their precise role in PFUDD management remains undefined. Surgical treatment with perineal anastomotic urethroplasty yields a success rate of more than 90% in most studies. The most important complication of surgical reconstruction is restenosis, occurring in less than 10% cases, most of which can be corrected by a redo anastomotic urethroplasty. The most common complication associated with this condition is erectile dysfunction. Urinary incontinence is a much rarer complication of this surgery in the present day. Conclusions: Anastomotic urethroplasty remains the cornerstone in the management of PFUDD, even in previously failed repairs. Newer innovations are needed to address the problem of erectile dysfunction associated with this condition. PMID:22022064

  14. Association between neuropathic pain, pregabalin treatment, and erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Bozkurt, Mehtap; Gocmez, Cuneyt; Soylemez, Haluk; Daggulli, Mansur; Em, Serda; Yildiz, Mehmet; Atar, Murat; Bozkurt, Yasar; Ozbey, Isa

    2014-07-01

    The pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction (ED) may be vasculogenic, hormonal, anatomical, neurogenic, drug-induced and/or psychogenic in origin. Neuropathic pain (NP) may facilitate ED, because it is frequently associated with anxiety, depression, and its drug, pregabalin, may also contribute ED. The objective of this study was to determine whether pregabalin treatment for patients with neuropathic pain promotes erectile dysfunction. The study sample consisted of a total of 102 male subjects that were subdivided into three groups. Group 1 patients (n = 31) had a pre-existing diagnosis of NP and was treated with 300 mg/day of pregabalin for at least 3 months. Group 2 patients (n = 34) were diagnosed with NP for at least 3 months; however, neither were they treated with pregabalin nor did they received physical therapy throughout the study. Lastly, healthy age-matched control subjects comprised group 3 (n = 37). Patients in all groups completed the International Index for Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire. Mean age and mean body mass index did not differ significantly between each of the three groups. The cause of NP and the mean duration of having a diagnosis of NP did not differ significantly in groups 1 and 2. However, IIEF scores were significantly lower for group 1 when compared to group 2 in terms of erectile function, orgasmic function, overall satisfaction and total score. Yet groups 1 and 2 did not diverge significantly in the intercourse satisfaction and sexual desire scores. Overall IIEF scores for group 3 were significantly higher than those of group 2 except for mean erectile function scores. Taking pregabalin for the treatment of neuropathic pain poses an increased risk for developing ED in male patients. Thus, clinicians prescribing pregabalin to patients diagnosed with neuropathic pain should assess for ED before and during treatment with this medication. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  15. Nonpharmacologic Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Montague, Drogo K

    2002-01-01

    Nonpharmacologic treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) includes sex therapy, the use of vacuum erection devices, penile prosthesis implantation, and penile vascular surgery. Sex therapy is indicated for psychogenic ED and is at times a useful adjunct for other treatments in men with mixed psychogenic and organic ED. Vacuum erection devices produce usable erections in over 90% of patients; however, patient and partner acceptability is an issue. Three-piece inflatable penile prostheses create flaccidity and an erection that comes close to that which occurs naturally. Penile vascular surgery has shown greatest efficacy in young men with vasculogenic ED resulting from pelvic or perineal trauma. PMID:16986016

  16. Pharmacologic Therapy in Men's Health: Hypogonadism, Erectile Dysfunction, and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

    PubMed

    Berkseth, Kathryn E; Thirumalai, Arthi; Amory, John K

    2016-07-01

    This article reviews current pharmacologic treatment options for 3 common men's health concerns: hypogonadism, erectile dysfunction (ED), and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Specific topics addressed include: management of male hypogonadism using testosterone replacement therapy, use of oral phosphodiesterase inhibitors as first-line therapy for men with ED and the utility of intraurethral and intrapenile alprostadil injections for patients who do not respond to oral medications, and the role of alpha1-adrenergic antagonists, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, anticholinergic agents, and herbal therapies in the management of BPH. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Sexuality and sexual dysfunction in spinal cord-injured men in Turkey.

    PubMed

    Akman, Ramazan Yavuz; Coşkun Çelik, Evrim; Karataş, Metin

    2015-01-01

    To provide a comprehensive evaluation of sexual function and dysfunction in spinal cord-injured men based on self-reports of patients. Forty-seven spinal cord-injured men who completed the spinal shock and rehabilitation period were included. Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire developed to assess social status, sexual activities, abilities, and sexuality education after injury. Neurologic levels of patients were classified according to American Spinal Cord Injury Association protocol. Erectile function was evaluated by International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire. Patients were aged between 20 and 62 years (mean: 35.2). Twenty-eight patients had T10 and above, 15 between T11 and L2, and 4 cauda conus injury. While 61.7% of the patients declared sexual activity, 93.6% declared some degree of erection. Mean IIEF-5 score was 5.3 and 87.3% of the patients had moderate to severe erectile dysfunction. Continuation of sexual activity after injury is very important and has a great impact on quality of life and interpersonal relationships for spinal cord-injured men. More attention must be given to sexuality after spinal cord injury. A very high rate of sexual dysfunction in spinal cord-injured patients was found and the importance of sexual education was emphasized in this study.

  18. Infertility in Men with Spinal Cord Injury: Research and Treatment

    PubMed Central

    Brackett, Nancy L.

    2012-01-01

    Spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs most often to young men. Following SCI, most men are infertile due to a combination of erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction and semen abnormalities. Erectile dysfunction may be treated by the same therapies that are used in the general population. Similarly, the same treatments that are effective to assist conception in couples with non-SCI male factor patients are effective in assisting conception in SCI male-factor patients. The most apparent differences in male-factor symptoms between SCI and non-SCI patients are the high occurrences of anejaculation and atypical semen profiles in men with SCI. Methods available to assist ejaculation in men with SCI include penile vibratory stimulation and EEJ. Use of surgical sperm retrieval as the first line of treatment for anejaculation in men with SCI is controversial. Most men with SCI have a unique semen profile characterized by normal sperm concentration, but abnormally low sperm motility. Toxic substances in the semen contribute to this problem. Despite impaired sperm parameters, pregnancy outcomes using sperm from men with SCI are similar to pregnancy outcomes using sperm from non-SCI men. Future studies should focus on improving natural ejaculation and improving semen quality in these men. PMID:24278717

  19. Erectile function profiles in men with Peyronie's disease.

    PubMed

    Deveci, Serkan; Palese, Michael; Parker, Marilyn; Guhring, Patricia; Mulhall, John P

    2006-05-01

    In this study we investigated the erectile function status of men presenting with Peyronie's disease. Demographics of patients regarding age, duration of PD, nature of deformity and comorbidities were compared between the patients with PD, with and without erectile dysfunction. Patients with erectile dysfunction underwent dynamic infusion cavernosometry/cavernosography. The hemodynamic profile of patients presenting with combined PD and ED were analyzed and compared between those with onset of ED before and after diagnosis of PD. Of the 222 patients 78 had ED (35%) by self-report at presentation. The mean age of patients with PD and ED was 52 +/- 22 years old. Hypertension (71.5%), hyperlipidemia (60.4%) and smoking (49.2%) were the leading comorbidities in the entire group. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups with and without ED for hypertension (p = 0.02) and cigarette smoking (p = 0.009). Of 222 patients 45 (20%) had ED that predated PD onset (group 1) and 33 (15%) had ED that postdated the onset of PD (group 2). DICC showed normal hemodynamics in 14 of 78 patients (18%), arteriogenic insufficiency in 50 (64%) and corporoveno-occlusive dysfunction in 16 (20%). CVOD was evenly distributed between groups 1 and 2, whereas arteriogenic ED was significantly higher in group 1 (82%). Site specific leak was seen in 4 of 33 (12%), all group 2 patients. Patients in whom ED postdates the onset of PD are more likely to have normal erectile hemodynamics. Site specific leak is an uncommon contributor to PD and is seen only in the patients with PD in whom ED postdated PD onset. The leading vascular etiology of ED in PD is arteriogenic in older patients and those with greater associated comorbidities.

  20. Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Vascular Disease and Erectile Dysfunction: Theory and Outcomes.

    PubMed

    Gruenwald, Ilan; Kitrey, Noam D; Appel, Boaz; Vardi, Yoram

    2013-07-01

    Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) to the penis has recently emerged as a new and promising modality in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). To review the published literature on the mechanism of action of LI-ESWT; and to report our clinical data on its efficacy in men with vasculogenic ED. A Medline search using the relevant keywords on this topic has been done. From the results of numerous preclinical and animal studies that have been done to date, sufficient evidence shows that the underlying mechanism of action of LI-ESWT is probably neovascularization. Therefore, local application of LI-ESWT to the corpora cavernosa may potentially act in the same mechanism and increase corporal blood flow. We found that the application of LI-ESWT to patients who responded to oral therapy (PDE5i) eliminated their dependence on PDE5i and they were able to successfully achieve erections and vaginal penetration (60-75%). Furthermore, PDE5i non-responders became responders and capable of vaginal penetration (72%). Additionally, LI-ESWT resulted in long-term improvement of the erectile mechanism. LI-ESWT has the potential to improve and permanently restore erectile function by reinstating the penile blood flow. Although these results on LI-ESWT are promising, further multi- centered studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm these findings. Gruenwald I, Kitrey ND, Appel B, and Vardi Y. Stem low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy in vascular disease and erectile dysfunction: Theory and outcomes. Sex Med Rev 2013;1:83-90. Copyright © 2013 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Sexual function and practice in elderly men of lower socioeconomic status.

    PubMed

    Cogen, R; Steinman, W

    1990-08-01

    Normal aging plus certain prevalent diseases are believed to render many elderly men impotent. Recent studies have suggested that educated middle-class and upper-class elderly men continue sexual activity, despite erectile dysfunction, by employing alternative practices such as mutual masturbation and oral sex. Few elderly men of lower socioeconomic background have been included in these studies, however. Using physician-administered interviews, 87 men attending an urban Veterans Administration geriatric clinic were studied to determine (1) the prevalence of erectile dysfunction, and (2) the sexual practices and attitudes of this group. Of the 87 men, 28% reported complete loss of erectile function, while 31% had frequent difficulties achieving vaginal intromission. Unlike economically advantaged groups, only 29% used mutual masturbation and 16% used oral sex. Attitudes toward these practices were negative. With one exception, men unable to perform coitus ceased all heterosexual activities.

  2. MicroRNA-200a is up-regulated in aged rats with erectile dysfunction and could attenuate endothelial function via SIRT1 inhibition

    PubMed Central

    Pan, Feng; Qiu, Xue-Feng; Yu, Wen; Zhang, Qi-Peng; Chen, Qun; Zhang, Chen-Yu; Chen, Yun; Pan, Lian-Jun; Zhang, Ai-Xia; Dai, Yu-Tian

    2016-01-01

    MiR-200a was shown to be upregulated in the corpus cavernosum (CC) of rats with aging-related erectile dysfunction (A-ED) in our previous study. Among its target genes, SIRT1 was also reported as a protective factor in erectile function by our groups previously. Thus, miR-200a might attenuate the erectile function in A-ED via SIRT1 inhibition. In the present study, three animal groups were included: aged rats with ED (group AE, n = 8), aged rats with normal erectile function (group AN, n = 8), and young rats as normal controls (group YN, n = 8). CCs from each group were collected for histological and molecular measurements to validate the dysregulation of miR-200a and SIRT1. After that, the cavernous endothelial cells (CECs) from CC of aged rats with normal erectile function were transfected with miR-200a in vitro. Then the expression of SIRT1 and molecules within the eNOS/NO/PKG pathway were measured to investigate whether the transfection could imitate the attenuated process of erectile function in the aged. As a result, miR-200a was upregulated while the SIRT1, the levels of eNOS and cGMP were all downregulated in the CCs from AE group. After transfection in vitro, the miR-200a was upregulated while the SIRT1 and levels of eNOS and cGMP were obviously downregulated. Finally, based on the results of our previous study, we further verify that up-regulation of miR-200a could participate in the mechanisms of A-ED via SIRT1 inhibition, and mainly attenuate endothelial function via influencing the eNOS/NO/PKGpathway. PMID:25966629

  3. Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial of Treating Erectile Dysfunction with Sildenafil After Radiotherapy and Short-Term Androgen Deprivation Therapy: Results of RTOG 0215

    PubMed Central

    Bruner, Deborah Watkins; James, Jennifer L.; Bryan, Charlene J.; Pisansky, Thomas M.; Rotman, Marvin; Corbett, Thomas; Speight, Joycelyn; Byhardt, Roger; Sandler, Howard; Bentzen, Søren; Kachnic, Lisa; Berk, Lawrence

    2013-01-01

    Introduction Erectile dysfunction (ED) may be the most commonly observed adverse event (AE) associated with the combination of radiation therapy (RT) and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). A significant number of men are trying phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5s) such as sildenafil to treat ED, yet sildenafil studies to date shed little light on the response to ED after ADT. Aim The purpose of this trial was to evaluate sildenafil in the treatment of ED in prostate cancer patients previously treated with external beam RT and neoadjuvant and concurrent ADT. Methods In this randomized, double-blinded crossover trial, eligible patients received RT/ADT for intermediate risk prostate cancer and currently had ED as defined by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Patients were randomized to 12 weeks of sildenafil or placebo followed by 1 week of no treatment then 12 weeks of the alternative. Treatment differences were evaluated using a marginal model for binary crossover data. Main Outcome Measures The primary end point was improved erectile function, as measured by the IIEF. Results The study accrued 115 patients and 61 (55%) completed all three IIEF assessments. Sildenafil effect was significant (P = 0.009) with a difference in probabilities of erectile response of 0.17 (95% confidence interval: 0.06, 0.29), and 0.21 (0.06, 0.38) for patients receiving ≤120 days of ADT. However, as few as 21% of patients had a treatment-specific response, only improving during sildenafil but not during the placebo phase. Conclusions This is the first controlled trial to suggest a positive sildenafil response for ED treatment in patients previously treated with RT/ADT, however, only a minority of patients responded to treatment. ADT duration may be associated with response and requires further study. The overall low response rate suggests the need for study of additional or preventative strategies for ED after RT/ADT for prostate cancer. PMID:21235716

  4. Effect of Mucuna pruriens (Linn.) on oxidative stress-induced structural alteration of corpus cavernosum in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat.

    PubMed

    Suresh, Sekar; Prakash, Seppan

    2011-07-01

    Erectile dysfunction is one of the major secondary complications of diabetes. Mucuna pruriens (M. pruriens), a leguminous plant identified for its antidiabetic, aphrodisiac, and fertility enhancing properties, has been the choice of Indian traditional medicine. The objective of the present study was to analyze the efficacy of M. pruriens on free radicals-mediated penile tissue alterations in hyperglycemic male rats. Methods.  Male albino rats were divided as group I (sham) control, group II (STZ) diabetes-induced (streptozotocin 60 mg/kg of body weight [bw] in 0.1 M citrate buffer), group III (STZ + MP) diabetic rats administered with 200 mg/kg bw of ethanolic extract of M. pruriens seed, group IV (STZ + SIL) diabetic rats administered with 5 mg/kg bw of sildenafil citrate, group V (sham + MP) administered with 200 mg/kg bw of extract alone, and group VI (sham + SIL) administered with 5 mg/kg bw of sildenafil citrate. The M. pruriens and sildenafil citrate were given (gavage) once daily for a period of 60 days. At the end of 60 days, the animals were sacrificed and subjected to analysis of reactive oxygen species levels, enzymic and nonenzymic antioxidant levels, levels of NOx, histological, and histomorphometrical study of penile tissue. Remedial use of M. pruriens seed extract on diabetes-induced erectile tissue damage. Significantly high levels of oxidative stress and low levels of antioxidants in the penile tissue seem to contribute to the increased collagen deposition and fibrosis of erectile tissue in STZ rats. Relatively, there was increased damage in STZ + SIL group. Supplementation of M. pruriens in STZ + MP group has revealed the potency to overcome oxidative stress, and good preservation of penile histoarchitecture.  The ethanolic extract of M. pruriens seed significantly recovered or protected erectile tissue from the oxidative stress-induced degeneration by its antioxidant potentials. These findings propound to serve mankind by the treatment of diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction. © 2011 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  5. Short-term efficacy and safety of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy in erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

    PubMed Central

    Zou, Zi-jun; Tang, Liang-you; Liu, Zhi-hong; Liang, Jia-yu; Zhang, Ruo-chen; Wang, Yu-jie; Tang, Yong-quan; Gao, Rui; Lu, Yi-ping

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT Aim: The role of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) in erectile dysfunction (ED) is not clearly determined. The purpose of this study is to investigate the short-term efficacy and safety of LI-ESWT for ED patients. Materials and Methods: Relevant studies were searched in Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WANFANG and VIP databases. Effective rate in terms of International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function Domain (IIEF-EF) and Erectile Hardness Score (EHS) at about 1XSmonth after LI-ESWT was extracted from eligible studies for meta-analysis to calculate risk ratio (RR) of effective treatment in ED patients treated by LI-ESWT compared to those receiving sham-treatment. Results: Overall fifteen studies were included in the review, of which four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were for meta-analysis. Effective treatment was 8.31 [95°/o confidence interval (CI): 3.88-17.78] times more effective in the LI-ESWT group (n=176) than in the sham-treatment group (n= 101) at about 1 month after the intervention in terms of EHS, while it was 2.50 (95% CI: 0.74–8.45) times more in the treatment group (n= 121) than in the control group (n=89) in terms of IIEF-EF. Nine-week protocol with energy density of 0.09mJ/mm2 and 1500 pluses seemed to have better therapeutic effect than five-week protocol. No significant adverse event was reported. Conclusion: LI-ESWT, as a noninvasive treatment, has potential short-term therapeutic effect on patients with organic ED irrespective of sensitivity to PDE5is. Owing to the limited number and quality of the studies, more large-scale, well-designed and longterm follow-up time studies are needed to confirm our analysis. PMID:28379665

  6. Alga Ecklonia bicyclis, Tribulus terrestris, and Glucosamine Oligosaccharide Improve Erectile Function, Sexual Quality of Life, and Ejaculation Function in Patients with Moderate Mild-Moderate Erectile Dysfunction: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Blinded Study

    PubMed Central

    Sansalone, Salvatore; Leonardi, Rosario; Antonini, Gabriele; Vitarelli, Antonio; Vespasiani, Giuseppe

    2014-01-01

    We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of oral therapy with alga Ecklonia bicyclis, Tribulus terrestris, and glucosamine oligosaccharide (Tradamix TX1000) in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) at 3 months of follow-up. From January 2013 to September 2013, 177 patients diagnosed with mild-moderate ED (IIEF-EF < 26) were enrolled in this multicenter, single-blinded, placebo-controlled study and randomized in Group A (Tradamix, n = 87) and Group B (placebo, n = 90). Penile color Doppler ultrasound measures, IIEF-15 questionnaire, male sexual health questionnaire-ejaculation disorder (MSHQ-EjD), and sexual quality of life (SQoL-M) were collected. We observed significant changes of the IIEF-15 in Group A (mean difference: 11.54; P < 0.05) at 3 months versus Group B (P < 0.05). PSV (P < 0.05), IIEF-intercourse satisfaction (P < 0.05), IIEF-orgasmic function (mean P < 0.05), IIEF-sexual desire (P < 0.05), IIEF-overall satisfaction (P < 0.05), MSHQ-EjD (mean difference: 1.21; P < 0.05), and SQoL-M (mean difference: 10.2; P < 0.05) were significantly changed in Group A versus baseline and Group B. Patients with moderate arterial dysfunction showed significant increase of PSV (P < 0.05), IIEF-EF (P < 0.05), MSHQ-EjD (P < 0.05), and SQoL-M (P < 0.05) in Group A. Therapy with Tradamix improves erectile and ejaculation function and sexual quality of life in patients with mild-moderate ED and in particular for those with moderate arterial dysfunction. PMID:25136552

  7. Alga Ecklonia bicyclis, Tribulus terrestris, and glucosamine oligosaccharide improve erectile function, sexual quality of life, and ejaculation function in patients with moderate mild-moderate erectile dysfunction: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blinded study.

    PubMed

    Sansalone, Salvatore; Leonardi, Rosario; Antonini, Gabriele; Vitarelli, Antonio; Vespasiani, Giuseppe; Basic, Dragoslav; Morgia, Giuseppe; Cimino, Sebastiano; Russo, Giorgio Ivan

    2014-01-01

    We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of oral therapy with alga Ecklonia bicyclis, Tribulus terrestris, and glucosamine oligosaccharide (Tradamix TX1000) in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) at 3 months of follow-up. From January 2013 to September 2013, 177 patients diagnosed with mild-moderate ED (IIEF-EF < 26) were enrolled in this multicenter, single-blinded, placebo-controlled study and randomized in Group A (Tradamix, n = 87) and Group B (placebo, n = 90). Penile color Doppler ultrasound measures, IIEF-15 questionnaire, male sexual health questionnaire-ejaculation disorder (MSHQ-EjD), and sexual quality of life (SQoL-M) were collected. We observed significant changes of the IIEF-15 in Group A (mean difference: 11.54; P < 0.05) at 3 months versus Group B (P < 0.05). PSV (P < 0.05), IIEF-intercourse satisfaction (P < 0.05), IIEF-orgasmic function (mean P < 0.05), IIEF-sexual desire (P < 0.05), IIEF-overall satisfaction (P < 0.05), MSHQ-EjD (mean difference: 1.21; P < 0.05), and SQoL-M (mean difference: 10.2; P < 0.05) were significantly changed in Group A versus baseline and Group B. Patients with moderate arterial dysfunction showed significant increase of PSV (P < 0.05), IIEF-EF (P < 0.05), MSHQ-EjD (P < 0.05), and SQoL-M (P < 0.05) in Group A. Therapy with Tradamix improves erectile and ejaculation function and sexual quality of life in patients with mild-moderate ED and in particular for those with moderate arterial dysfunction.

  8. Buttock Claudication and Erectile Dysfunction After Internal Iliac Artery Embolization in Patients Prior to Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rayt, H. S., E-mail: hsrayt@hotmail.com; Bown, M. J.; Lambert, K. V.

    2008-07-15

    Coil embolization of the internal iliac artery (IIA) is used to extend the application of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in cases of challenging iliac anatomy. Pelvic ischemia is a complication of the technique, but reports vary as to the rate and severity. This study reports our experience with IIA embolization and compares the results to those of other published series. The vascular unit database of the Leicester Royal Infirmary was used to identify patients who had undergone IIA coil embolization prior to EVAR. Data were collected from hospital case notes and by telephone interviews. Thirty-eight patients were identified; 29 ofmore » these were contactable by telephone. A literature search was performed for other studies of IIA embolization and the results were pooled. In this series buttock claudication occurred in 55% (16 of 29 patients) overall: in 52% of unilateral embolizations (11 of 21) and 63% of bilateral embolizations (5 of 8). New erectile dysfunction occurred in 46% (6 of 13 patients) overall: in 38% of unilateral embolizations (3 of 8) and 60% of bilateral embolizations (3 of 5). The literature review identified 18 relevant studies. The results were pooled with our results, to give 634 patients in total. Buttock claudication occurred in 28% overall (178 of 634 patients): in 31% of unilateral embolizations (99 of 322) and 35% of bilateral embolizations (34 of 98) (p = 0.46, Fisher's exact test). New erectile dysfunction occurred in 17% overall (27 of 159 patients): in 17% of unilateral embolizations (16 of 97) and 24% of bilateral embolizations (9 of 38) (p = 0.33). We conclude that buttock claudication and erectile dysfunction are frequent complications of IIA embolization and patients should be counseled accordingly.« less

  9. Efficacy and safety of tadalafil in men with erectile dysfunction with a high prevalence of comorbid conditions: results from MOMENTUS: multiple observations in men with erectile dysfunction in National Tadalafil Study in the US.

    PubMed

    Goldstein, Irwin; Kim, Edward; Steers, William D; Pryor, Jon L; Wilde, Dixon W; Natanegara, Fanni; Wong, David G; Ahuja, Sanjeev

    2007-01-01

    Limited efficacy and safety data exist from open-label clinical trials of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and multiple comorbid (MCM) conditions, historically a difficult group to treat. A multicenter study (Multiple Observations in Men with Erectile Dysfunction in National Tadalafil Study in the US) assessed efficacy and safety of tadalafil in men with ED and MCM conditions. The primary end point was change from baseline in the erectile function (EF) domain of the International Index of Erectile Function. Secondary end points included the Sexual Encounter Profile, Global Assessment Questions, and Sexual Self-Confidence and Spontaneity Domains of the Psychological and Interpersonal Relationship Scales. This was an open-label, multicenter study in men with ED. Tadalafil 20 mg was administered as needed prior to sexual activity, up to once/day, for 12 weeks following a 4-week ED-treatment-free period. The MCM group was 155 of 1,911 men enrolled in this study. Men in the MCM group met eligibility criteria but could not be included in other predefined groups: (i) Caucasian; (ii) Black American; (iii) Hispanic (groups 1-3, < or =65 years, no diabetes or depression); (iv) depression, < or =65 years, no diabetes; (v) diabetes, < or =65 years, no depression; (vi) >65 years, no diabetes or depression; and (vii) ED subsequent to traumatic spinal cord injury. Mean baseline EF domain score in MCM (mean age 65 +/- 9 years) was 12.2 +/- 6.5; 52% of subjects had severe ED; 72% diabetes mellitus; 67% cardiovascular disease (including hypertension); 49% hyperlipidemia; 38% depression; 84% had two or more comorbidities. At end point, there was a significant (P < 0.001) mean change of 7.6 from baseline in mean EF domain score. Among men with severe ED, 22% achieved an EF domain score > or =26. Most common adverse events were headache 5.2%; flushing 3.9% and nasal congestion 3.2%; 3% discontinued use because of an adverse event. In this open-label clinical trial of older men with ED and MCMs, tadalafil 20 mg significantly increased all efficacy end points and was well-tolerated.

  10. Asymptomatic prostatic inflammation in men with clinical BPH and erectile dysfunction affects the positive predictive value of prostate-specific antigen.

    PubMed

    Agnihotri, Shalini; Mittal, Rama Devi; Kapoor, Rakesh; Mandhani, Anil

    2014-10-01

    To test the hypothesis that sexual dysfunction in elderly men with benign prostatic hyperplasia leads to prostatic inflammation, diagnosed by prostatic fluid interleukin-8 (IL-8), which lowers the positive predictive value of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Overall, 160 men with lower urinary tract symptoms between 50 and 75 years of age with an elevated PSA level of more than 4 ng/ml with normal digital rectal examination and 50 age-matched controls with normal PSA level were prospectively evaluated for prostatic fluid IL-8 levels. Erectile dysfunction was measured by self-administered questionnaire of the Sexual Health Inventory for Men. Total and free serum PSA levels and IL-8 in prostatic fluid were measured 6 to 8 weeks after a course of 400mg of ofloxacin and 20mg of piroxicam given daily for 2 weeks. Transrectal ultrasonography-guided biopsy was done only when PSA level did not decrease less than 4 ng/ml. Mean ages of patients and controls were 63.18 (standard deviation [SD]±7.10) and 60.18 (SD+6.02) years, respectively. Mean concentration of IL-8 in prostatic fluid of the patients was significantly higher, i.e., 6678 pg/ml (SD±1985.7) than in control, i.e., 1543 pg/ml (SD±375.7) (P<0.001). Following anti-inflammatory treatment, there was a significant decrease in the mean level of IL-8 from baseline to 5622 pg/ml (SD±1870.66) (P<0.001). Corresponding to this, a significant decrease was noted in total PSA levels to less than 4 ng/ml in 105 (65.62%) patients. Men with the highest levels of IL-8 had a greater degree of erectile dysfunction. Men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction had significant inflammation of the prostate to cause spurious rise in PSA level resulting in an unnecessary biopsy. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Diabetes-Induced Changes in the Alternative Splicing of the Slo Gene in Corporal Tissue

    PubMed Central

    Davies, Kelvin P.; Zhao, Weixin; Tar, Moses; Figueroa, Johanna C.; Desai, Pratik; Verselis, Vytas K.; Kronengold, Jack; Wang, Hong-Zhan; Melman, Arnold; Christ, George J.

    2007-01-01

    Objectives Erectile dysfunction is a common diabetic complication. Preclinical studies have documented that the Slo gene (encoding the BK or Maxi-K channel α-subunit) plays a critical role in erectile function. Therefore, we determined whether diabetes induces changes in the splicing of the Slo gene relevant to erectile function. Methods Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was used to compare Slo splice variant expression in corporal tissue excised from control and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Fischer F-344 rats. Splice variants were sequenced, characterized by patch clamping, and fused to green fluorescent protein to determine cellular localization. The impact of altered Slo expression on erectile function was further evaluated in vivo. Results A novel Slo splice variant (SVcyt, with a cytoplasmic location) was predominantly expressed in corporal tissue from control rats. STZ-diabetes caused upregulation of a channel-forming transcript SV0. Preliminary results suggest that SV0 was also more prevalent in the corporal tissue of human diabetic compared with nondiabetic patients. The change in isoform expression in STZ-treated rats was partially reversed by insulin treatment. Intracorporal injection of a plasmid expressing the SV0 transcript, but not SVcyt, restored erectile function in STZ-diabetic rats. Conclusions Alternative splicing of the Slo transcript may represent an important compensatory mechanism to increase the ease with which relaxation of corporal tissue may be triggered as a result of a diabetes-related decline in erectile capacity. PMID:17150299

  12. Phenolic-rich extracts of Eurycoma longifolia and Cylicodiscus gabunensis inhibit enzymes responsible for the development of erectile dysfunction and are antioxidants.

    PubMed

    Oboh, Ganiyu; Adebayo, Adeniyi A; Ademosun, Ayokunle O

    2018-05-19

    Herbs have been used from ages to manage male sexual dysfunction. Hence, this study sought to investigate the effects of Eurycoma longifolia (EL) and Cylicodiscus gabunensis (CG) stem bark extracts on some enzymes implicated in erectile dysfunction in vitro. The extracts were prepared, and their effects on phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5), arginase, and angiotensin-1-converting enzyme (ACE) as well as pro-oxidant-induced lipid peroxidation were assessed. Furthermore, phenolic contents were determined, and their components were characterized and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). The results revealed that the extracts inhibited PDE-5, arginase, and ACE in a concentration-dependent manner. However, IC50 values revealed that CG had higher inhibitory potential on PDE-5 (IC50=204.4 μg/mL), arginase (IC50=39.01 μg/mL), and ACE (IC50=48.81 μg/mL) than EL. In addition, the extracts inhibited pro-oxidant-induced lipid peroxidation in penile tissue homogenate. HPLC-DAD analysis showed that CG is richer in phenolic compounds than EL, and this could be responsible for higher biological activities observed in CG than EL. Hence, the observed antioxidant property and inhibitory action of CG and EL on enzymes relevant to erectile dysfunction in vitro could be part of possible mechanisms underlying their involvement in traditional medicine for the management of male sexual dysfunction.

  13. Sacral neuromodulation for lower urinary tract dysfunction and impact on erectile function.

    PubMed

    Lombardi, Giuseppe; Mondaini, Nicola; Giubilei, Gianluca; Macchiarella, Angelo; Lecconi, Filippo; Del Popolo, Giulio

    2008-09-01

    The first sacral nerve stimulators were for urinary urgency incontinence, urgency-frequency, and nonobstructive urinary retention. Since then, observations have been made for benefits beyond voiding disorders. To evaluate if sacral neuromodulation (SNM) using the InterStim system (Medtronic Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA) improves erectile function. From January 1999 to January 2007, 54 males, mean age 42.8, underwent a permanent SNM for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Pre-SNM only subjects with concomitant erectile impairment according to the five-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), with normal blood sexual hormonal status, and responding to an intracavernous injection test 10 microg were enrolled in our study. Three months after permanent implantation, the IIEF-5 was completed again. Those who benefited significantly in erectile function completed the IIEF-5 semiannually. A final checkup was performed in July 2007. A score of IIEF-5 equal to or higher than 25% compared to baseline indicated remarkable clinical enhancement. Presurgery, two patients were excluded. Overall, 22 subjects (42.3%) showed erectile impairment (14 were neurogenic). In the first visit post-SNM, five retentionists of neurogenic origin and two with overactive bladder syndrome of idiopathic origin achieved noticeable erectile improvement. Their median IIEF-5 score shifted from 14.6 to 22.2, and 15.5 to 22.5, respectively. During follow-up, two neurogenics lost the benefits concerning voiding and erection and recovered them after a new implant in the contralateral sacral S3 root. In the final visit, the seven responders reached an IIEF-5 score of at least 22. Our study showed a clinically important benefit of sexual function mainly for neurogenic retentionists. Future research should test SNM in a larger sample of subjects, exclusively with sexual dysfunctions, in order to better understand the mechanism of action of SNM on erectile function.

  14. Losartan improves erectile dysfunction in diabetic patients: a clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Chen, Y; Cui, S; Lin, H; Xu, Z; Zhu, W; Shi, L; Yang, R; Wang, R; Dai, Y

    2012-01-01

    The activation of cavernous local renin-angiotensin system has an important role in pathogenesis of diabetic erectile dysfunction (ED). In our primary study, we found that angiotensin Type 1 receptor blocker improved the erectile function of diabetic rats. Therefore we explored the losartan in clinical treatment for diabetic patients suffering with ED. A total of 124 diabetic patients with ED were included in this study and treated with losartan or tadalafil or losartan plus tadalafil or watch for waiting as control for 12 weeks. Erectile function was assessed by International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire, the percentage of positive responses to sexual encounter profile questions 2 (SEP2), 3 (SEP3) and the global assessment question (GAQ). Losartan or tadalafil or losartan plus tadalafil significantly improved the mean IIEF-5 scores, the percentage of successful penetrations (SEP2), the successful intercourse completions (SEP3) and GAQ (P<0.05). The combination of losartan and tadalafil is more effective than the single-use of losartan or tadalafil (P<0.05). The patients with moderate and mild ED had better response rates to losartan than patients with severe ED. This is the first clinical trial in losartan therapy on diabetic patients suffering from ED. Losartan seems to be effective and well-tolerated in diabetic ED patients, especially for mild to moderate ones. The combination therapy of losartan and tadalafil appeared to be more effective than monotherapy.

  15. Sexual and relationship characteristics among an internet-based sample of U.S. men with and without erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Cameron, Ann; Rosen, Raymond C; Swindle, Ralph W

    2005-01-01

    Sexual and relationship characteristics of men in the general population, particularly those with erectile dysfunction (ED), are not well established. This Internet-based survey (N = 700) examined demographic, sexual, and relationship characteristics of two groups of men aged 40-70: those with no ED (n = 589) and those with probable ED (n = 111). Compared to men without ED, men in the ED sample were significantly older, had more medical conditions, and had significantly worse sexual, psychological, and relationship function. Sexual function and relationship and psychological characteristics were significant predictors of overall sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction.

  16. A state-of-art review of low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy and lithotripter machines for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Chung, Eric; Wang, Juan

    2017-12-01

    Current treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) mostly attempts to improve erectile function with limited impact on altering the underlying pathophysiology of ED. Recent animal experiments have supported the notion that low intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LIESWT) significantly improves penile hemodynamics and might induce structural changes that regenerate penile tissue. Areas covered: This review article provides an overview of the basic mechanics and clinical studies pertaining to LIESWT and its use in the field of ED. We identify several key aspects of LIESWT and compare contemporary LIESWT machines and their clinical outcomes. Expert commentary: There is emerging and strong literature to support the use of LIESWT in men with ED, with many clinical studies reported encouraging results in the use of LIESWT with improved erectile function, good safety records, and short-term durability. However, there is a need to define which subgroup of ED population is best suited and the LIESWT treatment protocol including LIESWT template, modality of shock waves energy, emission frequency, and total energy delivery. More stringent randomised controlled trials are warranted before there is widespread acceptance of this LIESWT technology as the standard of care in ED.

  17. Treatment profile and complications associated with cryotherapy for localized prostate cancer: a population-based study.

    PubMed

    Roberts, C B; Jang, T L; Shao, Yu-Hsuan; Kabadi, S; Moore, D F; Lu-Yao, G L

    2011-12-01

    The aim of this study was to assess the treatment patterns and 3-12-month complication rates associated with receiving prostate cryotherapy in a population-based study. Men >65 years diagnosed with incident localized prostate cancer in Surveillance Epidemiology End Results (SEER)-Medicare-linked database from 2004 to 2005 were identified. A total of 21,344 men were included in the study, of which 380 were treated initially with cryotherapy. Recipients of cryotherapy versus aggressive forms of prostate therapy (ie, radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy) were more likely to be older, have one co-morbidity, low income, live in the South and be diagnosed with indolent cancer. Complication rates increased from 3 to 12 months following cryotherapy. By the twelfth month, the rates for urinary incontinence, lower urinary tract obstruction, erectile dysfunction and bowel bleeding reached 9.8, 28.7, 20.1 and 3.3%, respectively. Diagnoses of hydronephrosis, urinary fistula or bowel fistula were not evident. The rates of corrective invasive procedures for lower urinary tract obstruction and erectile dysfunction were both <2.9% by the twelfth month. Overall, complications post-cryotherapy were modest; however, diagnoses for lower urinary tract obstruction and erectile dysfunction were common.

  18. Sexual Health of Polish Athletes with Disabilities.

    PubMed

    Plinta, Ryszard; Sobiecka, Joanna; Drosdzol-Cop, Agnieszka; Nowak-Brzezińska, Agnieszka; Kobiołka, Agnieszka; Skrzypulec-Plinta, Violetta

    2015-06-30

    The purpose of this study was to determine sexual functioning of Polish athletes with disabilities (including paralympians). The study encompassed 218 people with physical disabilities, aged between 18 and 45 (149 men and 69 women). The entire research population was divided into three groups: Polish paralympians (n = 45), athletes with disabilities (n = 126) and non-athletes with disabilities (n = 47). The quality of sexual life of Polish paralympians was measured by using the Polish version of Female Sexual Function Index and International Index of Erectile Function. Clinically significant erectile dysfunctions were most often diagnosed in non-athletes (83.33%) with 50% result of severe erectile dysfunctions, followed by athletes and paralympians with comparable results of 56.98% and 54.17% respectively (p = 0.00388). Statistically significant clinical sexual dysfunctions concerned lubrication, orgasm as well as pain domains, and prevailed among female non-athletes (68.42%, 68.42% and 57.89%). Practising sports at the highest level has a favourable effect on the sexuality of men and women with physical disabilities. Men with physical disabilities manifest more sexual disorders than women, an aspect which should be considered by health-care professionals working with people with disabilities.

  19. Combination of low-energy shock-wave therapy and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation to improve the erectile function of diabetic rats

    PubMed Central

    Shan, Hai-Tao; Zhang, Hai-Bo; Chen, Wen-Tao; Chen, Feng-Zhi; Wang, Tao; Luo, Jin-Tai; Yue, Min; Lin, Ji-Hong; Wei, An-Yang

    2017-01-01

    Stem cell transplantation and low-energy shock-wave therapy (LESWT) have emerged as potential and effective treatment protocols for diabetic erectile dysfunction. During the tracking of transplanted stem cells in diabetic erectile dysfunction models, the number of visible stem cells was rather low and decreased quickly. LESWT could recruit endogenous stem cells to the cavernous body and improve the microenvironment in diabetic cavernous tissue. Thus, we deduced that LESWT might benefit transplanted stem cell survival and improve the effects of stem cell transplantation. In this research, 42 streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were randomized into four groups: the diabetic group (n = 6), the LESWT group (n = 6), the bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation group (n = 15), and the combination of LESWT and BMSC transplantation group (n = 15). One and three days after BMSC transplantation, three rats were randomly chosen to observe the survival numbers of BMSCs in the cavernous body. Four weeks after BMSC transplantation, the following parameters were assessed: the surviving number of transplanted BMSCs in the cavernous tissue, erectile function, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and penile immunohistochemical assessment. Our research found that LESWT favored the survival of transplanted BMSCs in the cavernous body, which might be related to increased stromal cell-derived factor-1 expression and the enhancement of angiogenesis in the diabetic cavernous tissue. The combination of LESWT and BMSC transplantation could improve the erectile function of diabetic erectile function rats more effectively than LESWT or BMSC transplantation performed alone. PMID:27427555

  20. Combination of low-energy shock-wave therapy and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation to improve the erectile function of diabetic rats.

    PubMed

    Shan, Hai-Tao; Zhang, Hai-Bo; Chen, Wen-Tao; Chen, Feng-Zhi; Wang, Tao; Luo, Jin-Tai; Yue, Min; Lin, Ji-Hong; Wei, An-Yang

    2017-01-01

    Stem cell transplantation and low-energy shock-wave therapy (LESWT) have emerged as potential and effective treatment protocols for diabetic erectile dysfunction. During the tracking of transplanted stem cells in diabetic erectile dysfunction models, the number of visible stem cells was rather low and decreased quickly. LESWT could recruit endogenous stem cells to the cavernous body and improve the microenvironment in diabetic cavernous tissue. Thus, we deduced that LESWT might benefit transplanted stem cell survival and improve the effects of stem cell transplantation. In this research, 42 streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were randomized into four groups: the diabetic group (n = 6), the LESWT group (n = 6), the bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation group (n = 15), and the combination of LESWT and BMSC transplantation group (n = 15). One and three days after BMSC transplantation, three rats were randomly chosen to observe the survival numbers of BMSCs in the cavernous body. Four weeks after BMSC transplantation, the following parameters were assessed: the surviving number of transplanted BMSCs in the cavernous tissue, erectile function, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and penile immunohistochemical assessment. Our research found that LESWT favored the survival of transplanted BMSCs in the cavernous body, which might be related to increased stromal cell-derived factor-1 expression and the enhancement of angiogenesis in the diabetic cavernous tissue. The combination of LESWT and BMSC transplantation could improve the erectile function of diabetic erectile function rats more effectively than LESWT or BMSC transplantation performed alone.

  1. Increased Risk of Osteoporosis in Depressive Patients with Erectile Dysfunction: A Cross-sectional Study from Malaysia

    PubMed Central

    Nahas, Abdul Rahman Fata; Sulaiman, Syed Azhar Syed

    2017-01-01

    Background: Depression imposes numerous changes on depressive men, promoting for low bone mineral density (BMD) and erectile dysfunction (ED), yet no published data on exploring the possible association between these two disorders among depressive men. We therefore investigated whether low BMD is associated with ED among depressive men and highlighted the possible mutual underlying factors that might give rise to these two disorders in this specific group of patients. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 119 depressive men were recruited and their sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were obtained. Erectile function was evaluated using the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function. All patients received a calcaneal BMD scanning. Chi-square test was conducted to determine if a significant association exists between ED and low BMD. Results: Of the study participants, ninety patients reported ED, while 29 patients reported no ED. Within the ED group, there was a significantly higher proportion of patients with low BMD compared to the non-ED group (85.6% vs. 62.1%, P = 0.006). In addition, among younger participants (i.e., aged < 50 years old), the difference in T-score between ED patients (Md = −2.2, n = 41) and non-ED patients (Md = −1.3, n = 20) was significant (P = 0.001); but held no significance among older participants. Conclusions: While our findings are considered prefatory, we reported that low BMD was significantly associated with ED in depressive men and that only among young depressive patients, BMD was significantly lower in ED patients compared to non-ED patients. More research investigating these findings and the possible underlying mechanisms for such association are warranted. PMID:28979072

  2. Metabolic syndrome: An independent risk factor for erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Sanjay, Saran; Bharti, Gupta Sona; Manish, Gutch; Rajeev, Philip; Pankaj, Agrawal; Puspalata, Agroiya; Keshavkumar, Gupta

    2015-01-01

    Objective: The objective was to determine the role of various components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) as independent risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). Materials and Methods: A total of 113 subjects of MetS, as recommended by recent IDF and AHA/NHLBI joint interim statement were selected for study who presented for ED. After doing Anthropometric examination, fasting laboratory assay for fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting insulin, hemoglobin A1c, triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and 2 h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was done. Erectile function was assessed by completing questions one through five of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). A multiple linear regression analysis was carried out on 66 subjects with IIEF-5 score as dependent variable and components of MetS FPG, 2 h OGTT, TG, HDL, and waist circumference as independent variables. Results: Using a multiple linear regression analysis, we observed that presence of the various components of MetS was associated with ED and a decrease IIEF-5 score and this effect was greater than the effect associated with any of the individual components. Of the individual components of the MetS, HDL (B = 0.136; P = 0.004) and FPG (B = −0.069; P = 0.007) conferred the strongest effect on IIEF-5 score. However, overall age had most significant effect on IIEF-5 score. Conclusion: It is crucial to formulate strategies and implement them to prevent or control the epidemic of the MetS and its consequences. The early identification and treatment of risk factors might be helpful to prevent ED and secondary cardiovascular disease, including diet and lifestyle interventions. PMID:25729692

  3. Prostate cancer outcomes in France: treatments, adverse effects and two-year mortality

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background This very large population-based study investigated outcomes after a diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) in terms of mortality rates, treatments and adverse effects. Methods Among the 11 million men aged 40 years and over covered by the general national health insurance scheme, those with newly managed PCa in 2009 were followed for two years based on data from the national health insurance information system (SNIIRAM). Patients were identified using hospitalisation diagnoses and specific refunds related to PCa and PCa treatments. Adverse effects of PCa treatments were identified by using hospital diagnoses, specific procedures and drug refunds. Results The age-standardised two-year all-cause mortality rate among the 43,460 men included in the study was 8.4%, twice that of all men aged 40 years and over. Among the 36,734 two-year survivors, 38% had undergone prostatectomy, 36% had been treated by hormone therapy, 29% by radiotherapy, 3% by brachytherapy and 20% were not treated. The frequency of treatment-related adverse effects varied according to age and type of treatment. Among men between 50 and 69 years of age treated by prostatectomy alone, 61% were treated for erectile dysfunction and 24% were treated for urinary disorders. The frequency of treatment for these disorders decreased during the second year compared to the first year (erectile dysfunction: 41% vs 53%, urinary disorders: 9% vs 20%). The frequencies of these treatments among men treated by external beam radiotherapy alone were 7% and 14%, respectively. Among men between 50 and 69 years with treated PCa, 46% received treatments for erectile dysfunction and 22% for urinary disorders. For controls without PCa but treated surgically for benign prostatic hyperplasia, these frequencies were 1.5% and 6.0%, respectively. Conclusions We report high survival rates two years after a diagnosis of PCa, but a high frequency of PCa treatment-related adverse effects. These frequencies remain underestimated, as they are based on treatments for erectile dysfunction and urinary disorders and do not reflect all functional outcomes. These results should help urologists and general practitioners to inform their patients about outcomes at the time of screening and diagnosis, and especially about potential treatment-related adverse effects. PMID:24927850

  4. Percutaneous Perineal Electrostimulation Induces Erection: Clinical Significance in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury and Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Shafik, Ahmed; Shafik, Ali A; Shafik, Ismail A; Sibai, Olfat El

    2008-01-01

    Objectives: Approximately one third to one half of the penis is embedded in the pelvis and can be felt through the scrotum and in the perineum. The main arteries and nerves enter the penis through this perineal part of the penis, which seems to represent a highly sensitive area. We investigated the hypothesis that percutaneous perineal stimulation evokes erection in patients with neurogenic erectile dysfunction. Methods: Percutaneous electrostimulation of the perineum (PESP) with synchronous intracorporeal pressure (ICP) recording was performed in 28 healthy volunteers (age 36.3 ± 7.4 y) and 18 patients (age 36.6 ± 6.8 y) with complete neurogenic erectile dysfunction (NED). Current was delivered in a sine wave summation fashion. Average maximal voltages and number of stimulations delivered per session were 15 to 18 volts and 15 to 25 stimulations, respectively. Results: PESP of healthy volunteers effected an ICP increase (P < 0.0001), which returned to the basal value upon stimulation cessation. The latent period recorded was 2.5 ± 0.2 seconds. Results were reproducible on repeated PESP in the same subject but with an increase of the latent period. Patients with NED recorded an ICP increase that was lower (P < 0.05) and a latent period that was longer (P < 0.0001) than those of healthy volunteers. Conclusion: PESP effected ICP increase in the healthy volunteers and patients with NED. The ICP was significantly higher and latent period shorter in the healthy volunteers than in the NED patients. PESP may be of value in the treatment of patients with NED, provided that further studies are performed to reproduce these results. PMID:18533410

  5. Patient-Reported Outcomes After Radiation Therapy in Men With Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review of Prognostic Tool Accuracy and Validity

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    O'Callaghan, Michael E., E-mail: elspeth.raymond@health.sa.gov.au; Freemasons Foundation Centre for Men's Health, University of Adelaide; Urology Unit, Repatriation General Hospital, SA Health, Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer

    Purpose: To identify, through a systematic review, all validated tools used for the prediction of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in patients being treated with radiation therapy for prostate cancer, and provide a comparative summary of accuracy and generalizability. Methods and Materials: PubMed and EMBASE were searched from July 2007. Title/abstract screening, full text review, and critical appraisal were undertaken by 2 reviewers, whereas data extraction was performed by a single reviewer. Eligible articles had to provide a summary measure of accuracy and undertake internal or external validation. Tools were recommended for clinical implementation if they had been externally validated and foundmore » to have accuracy ≥70%. Results: The search strategy identified 3839 potential studies, of which 236 progressed to full text review and 22 were included. From these studies, 50 tools predicted gastrointestinal/rectal symptoms, 29 tools predicted genitourinary symptoms, 4 tools predicted erectile dysfunction, and no tools predicted quality of life. For patients treated with external beam radiation therapy, 3 tools could be recommended for the prediction of rectal toxicity, gastrointestinal toxicity, and erectile dysfunction. For patients treated with brachytherapy, 2 tools could be recommended for the prediction of urinary retention and erectile dysfunction. Conclusions: A large number of tools for the prediction of PROMs in prostate cancer patients treated with radiation therapy have been developed. Only a small minority are accurate and have been shown to be generalizable through external validation. This review provides an accessible catalogue of tools that are ready for clinical implementation as well as which should be prioritized for validation.« less

  6. Evaluation of a multi-herb supplement for erectile dysfunction: a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

    PubMed

    Shah, Gaurang R; Chaudhari, Manojkumar V; Patankar, Suresh B; Pensalwar, Shrikant V; Sabale, Vilas P; Sonawane, Navneet A

    2012-09-15

    Evidence is lacking for multi-ingredient herbal supplements claiming therapeutic effect in sexual dysfunction in men. We examined the safety and efficacy of VigRX Plus (VXP) - a proprietary polyherbal preparation for improving male sexual function, in a double blind, randomized placebo-controlled, parallel groups, multi-centre study. 78 men aged 25-50 years of age; suffering from mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED), participated in this study. Subjects were randomized to receive VXP or placebo at a dose of two capsules twice daily for 12 weeks. The international index of erectile function (IIEF) was the primary outcome measure of efficacy. Other efficacy measures were: Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS), Serum testosterone, Semen analysis, Investigator's Global assessment and Subjects' opinion. In subjects receiving VXP, the IIEF-Erectile Function (EF) scores improved significantly as compared to placebo. After 12 weeks of treatment, the mean (sd) IIEF-EF score at baseline increased from 16.08 (2.87) to 25.08 (4.56) in the VXP group versus 15.86 (3.24) to 16.47 (4.25) in the placebo group (P < 0.0001). Similar results were observed in each of the remaining four domains of the IIEF (orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction).There was a significant difference for VXP versus placebo comparison of mean (sd) EDITS scores of patients: 82.31(20.23) vs 36.78(22.53) and partners :(82.75(9.8) vs 18.50(9.44);P < 0.001. Thirty-five out of 39 (90%) subjects from the VXP group and one (3%) from the placebo group wished to continue with the treatment they received. Investigator's global assessment rated VXP therapy as very good to excellent in more than 50% patients and placebo therapy as fair to good in about 25% of patients. Incidence of side effects and subject's rating for tolerability of treatment was similar in both groups. VigRX Plus was well tolerated and more effective than placebo in improving sexual function in men. Clinical Trial Registry India, CTRI/2009/091/000099, 31-03-2009.

  7. Erectile dysfunction in chronic kidney disease: From pathophysiology to management

    PubMed Central

    Papadopoulou, Eirini; Varouktsi, Anna; Lazaridis, Antonios; Boutari, Chrysoula; Doumas, Michael

    2015-01-01

    Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is encountered in millions of people worldwide, with continuously rising incidence during the past decades, affecting their quality of life despite the increase of life expectancy in these patients. Disturbance of sexual function is common among men with CKD, as both conditions share common pathophysiological causes, such as vascular or hormonal abnormalities and are both affected by similar coexisting comorbid conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The estimated prevalence of erectile dysfunction reaches 70% in end stage renal disease patients. Nevertheless, sexual dysfunction remains under-recognized and under-treated in a high proportion of these patients, a fact which should raise awareness among clinicians. A multifactorial approach in management and treatment is undoubtedly required in order to improve patients’ quality of life and cardiovascular outcomes. PMID:26167462

  8. Hypogonadism as a possible link between metabolic diseases and erectile dysfunction in aging men.

    PubMed

    Corona, Giovanni; Bianchini, Silvia; Sforza, Alessandra; Vignozzi, Linda; Maggi, Mario

    2015-01-01

    There is evidence demonstrating that sexual complaints represent the most specific symptoms associated with late onset hypogonadism, while central obesity is the most specific sign. In obese men, hypogonadism can further worsen the metabolic profile and increase abdominal fat. In addition, although hypogonadism can exacerbate obesity-associated erectile dysfunction (ED), recent data suggest that a direct contribution of fat-derived factors could be hypothesized. In particular, an animal model recently documented that fat accumulation induces several hepatic pro-inflammatory genes closely linked to corpora cavernosa endothelial dysfunction. Lifestyle modifications and weight loss are the first steps in the treatment of ED patients with obesity or metabolic diseases. In symptomatic hypogonadal men with metabolic impairment and obesity, combining the effect of testosterone substitution with lifestyle modifications could result in better outcomes.

  9. Penile Low Intensity Shock Wave Treatment is Able to Shift PDE5i Nonresponders to Responders: A Double-Blind, Sham Controlled Study.

    PubMed

    Kitrey, Noam D; Gruenwald, Ilan; Appel, Boaz; Shechter, Arik; Massarwa, Omar; Vardi, Yoram

    2016-05-01

    We performed sham controlled evaluation of penile low intensity shock wave treatment effect in patients unable to achieve sexual intercourse using PDE5i (phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor). This prospective, randomized, double-blind, sham controlled study was done in patients with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction who stopped using PDE5i due to no efficacy. All patients had an erection hardness score of 2 or less with PDE5i. A total of 58 patients were randomized, including 37 treated with low intensity shock waves (12 sessions of 1,500 pulses of 0.09 mJ/mm(2) at 120 shock waves per minute) and 18 treated with a sham probe. In the sham group 16 patients underwent low intensity shock wave treatment 1 month after sham treatment. All patients were evaluated at baseline and 1 month after the end of treatment using validated erectile dysfunction questionnaires and the flow mediated dilatation technique for penile endothelial function. Erectile function was evaluated while patients were receiving PDE5i. In the low intensity shock wave treatment group and the sham group 54.1% and 0% of patients, respectively, achieved erection hard enough for vaginal penetration, that is an EHS (Erection Hardness Score) of 3 (p <0.0001). According to changes in the IIEF-EF (International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function) score treatment was effective in 40.5% of men who received low intensity shock wave treatment but in none in the sham group (p = 0.001). Of patients treated with shock waves after sham treatment 56.3% achieved erection hard enough for penetration (p <0.005). Low intensity shock wave treatment is effective even in patients with severe erectile dysfunction who are PDE5i nonresponders. After treatment about half of them were able to achieve erection hard enough for penetration with PDE5i. Longer followup is needed to establish the place of low intensity shock wave treatment in these challenging cases. Copyright © 2016 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. The Beneficial Effect of Fesoterodine, a Competitive Muscarinic Receptor Antagonist on Erectile Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats.

    PubMed

    Yilmaz-Oral, Didem; Bayatli, Nur; Gur, Serap

    2017-09-01

    To investigate the possible role of fesoterodine (a competitive muscarinic receptor antagonist) on erectile dysfunction in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. A total of 16 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into control and diabetic groups. Diabetes was induced by a single intravenous injection of streptozotocin (25-35 mg/kg). In vivo erectile responses were evaluated by the stimulation of cavernosal nerves, and measurements were repeated after the intracavernosal injection of fesoterodine (1 µM) in rats. The relaxation responses to fesoterodine were examined via incubation with various inhibitors. The relaxant responses of corpus cavernosum (CC) strips were observed in the presence or the absence of fesoterodine (10 µM). Intracavernous administration of fesoterodine restored in vivo erectile response at 5.0- and 7.5-V levels, except for 2.5 V in diabetic rats. Basal intracavernosal pressure (5.4 ± 0.9 mm Hg) in diabetic rats was markedly increased after injection of fesoterodine (33.9 ± 7.9 mm Hg, P <.001). In bath studies, fesoterodine resulted in a relaxation of CC in a concentration-dependent manner, which was reduced in diabetic rats. Nifedipine (l-type Ca 2+ channel blocker) inhibited maximum fesoterodine-induced relaxation by 58%. The nonselective K + channel blocker tetraethylammonium and glibenclamide incubation did not change the relaxant response to fesoterodine. The relaxant responses to acetylcholine (10 µM), electrical field stimulation (10 Hz), and sodium nitroprusside (0.01 µM) in diabetic rats were increased after incubation with fesoterodine (10 µM). Fesoterodine improved erectile function and relaxation of isolated strips of rat CC. The underlying mechanism of fesoterodine is likely due to the blocking of l-type calcium channels independent of the nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway. Further investigations are warranted to fully elucidate the restorative effects of fesoterodine on overactive bladder-induced diabetic erectile dysfunction. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. [Sexuality in the elderly].

    PubMed

    Wilk, Bartosz

    2015-03-01

    Sustaining and strengthening the ability of the elderly to continue their sexual needs can be realized as part of improving their quality of life, health and well-being. There is no age at which ends the expression of sexuality and intimacy. Through education, quality of life and advances in medicine, the average life expectancy is still increasing. Sexual activity of older people society usually describe using pejorative terms as an inappropriate, bizarre or obscene, but these labels are different than reality. Hormonal changes and other physiological changes associated with aging affect sexual interest. Erectile dysfunction is a problem in men increasing with age. There is no evidence that premature ejaculation is more common in older age. Cross-sectional studies showed no difference in sexual dysfunction between older and younger women. Age is not a barrier to sexually transmitted diseases. The most common pathogenetic factors for male erectile dysfunction are vascular diseases. In women, the most important symptoms of sexual dysfunction are lack of emotional wellbeing and a sense of intimacy during sexual intercourse. © 2015 MEDPRESS.

  12. Burden of Sexual Dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Balon, Richard

    2017-01-02

    Similar to the burden of other diseases, the burden of sexual dysfunction has not been systematically studied. However, there is growing evidence of various burdens (e.g., economic, symptomatic, humanistic) among patients suffering from sexual dysfunctions. The burden of sexual dysfunction has been studied a bit more often in men, namely the burden of erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE) and testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS). Erectile dysfunction is frequently associated with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and depression. These conditions could go undiagnosed, and ED could be a marker of those diseases. The only available report from the United Kingdom estimated the total economic burden of ED at £53 million annually in terms of direct costs and lost productivity. The burden of PE includes significant psychological distress: anxiety, depression, lack of sexual confidence, poor self-esteem, impaired quality of life, and interpersonal difficulties. Some suggest that increase in female sexual dysfunction is associated with partner's PE, in addition to significant interpersonal difficulties. The burden of TDS includes depression, sexual dysfunction, mild cognitive impairment, and osteoporosis. One UK estimate of the economic burden of female sexual dysfunctions demonstrated that the average cost per patient was higher than the per annum cost of ED. There are no data on burden of paraphilic disorders. The burden of sexual dysfunctions is underappreciated and not well studied, yet it is significant for both the patients and the society.

  13. Vcsa1 Acts as a Marker of Erectile Function Recovery After Gene Therapeutic and Pharmacological Interventions

    PubMed Central

    Calenda, Giulia; Tong, Yuehong; Tar, Moses; Lowe, Daniel; Siragusa, Joseph; Melman, Arnold; Davies, Kelvin P.

    2010-01-01

    Purpose We identified molecular markers of erectile function, particularly those responding to erectile dysfunction treatment. Materials and Methods Sprague-Dawley retired breeder rats were intracorporeally injected with pVAX-hSlo, pSMAA-hSlo or the control plasmid pVAX. One week later the intracorporeal pressure-to-blood pressure ratio and gene expression were determined by microarray analysis and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Rat corporeal cells were transfected in vitro with pVAX-hSlo, pSMAA-hSlo or pVAX and the change in gene expression was determined. We also determined whether Vcsa1 expression was changed after pharmacotherapy using tadalafil. Results Animals treated with vectors expressing hSlo had significantly improved erectile function compared to that in controls, accompanied by changed expression of a subset of genes. Vcsa1 was one of the genes that was most changed in expression (the third of approximately 31,000 with greater than 10-fold up-regulation). Changes in gene expression were different than those observed in corporeal cells transfected in vitro, distinguishing gene expression changes that were a direct effect of hSlo over expression. When tadalafil was administered in retired breeder rats, the Vcsa1 transcript increased 4-fold in corporeal tissue compared to that in untreated controls. Conclusions Our study identifies a set of genes that are changed in response to improved erectile function, rather than as a direct effect of treatment. We noted Vcsa1 may act as marker of the restoration of erectile function after gene transfer and pharmacotherapy. PMID:19375734

  14. Combined technetium radioisotope penile plethysmography and xenon washout: A technique for evaluating corpora cavernosal inflow and outflow during early tumescence

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Schwartz, A.N.; Graham, M.M.

    1991-03-01

    Combined technetium radioisotope penile plethysmography and xenon washout is a new technique that measures both corporal arterial inflow and venous sinusoidal outflow during early tumescence in patients with erectile dysfunction. Fourteen patients were studied using 99mTc-RBCs to measure inflow and 133Xe or 127Xe in saline to measure outflow. Tumescence was induced by injecting papaverine intracorporally. Peak corporal rates corrected for inflow (r = 0.88) and uncorrected for outflow (r = 0.91) and change in volume over 2 min centered around peak inflow (r = 0.96) all correlated with angiography. Outflow measurements did not correlate with intracorporal resistance. Thus, outflow ratesmore » alone could not be used to predict venous sinusoidal competence. Normal inflow rate is greater than 20 ml/min; probable normal 12-20; indeterminate inflow 7-12; and abnormal inflow less than 7 ml/min. Technetium-99m radioisotope penile plethysmography and xenon washout can be performed together and both provide a method for simultaneously evaluating the relationship between corporal inflow and outflow rates in patients with erectile dysfunction.« less

  15. The multinational Men's Attitudes to Life Events and Sexuality (MALES) Study Phase II: understanding PDE5 inhibitor treatment seeking patterns, among men with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Fisher, William A; Rosen, Raymond C; Eardley, Ian; Niederberger, Craig; Nadel, Andrea; Kaufman, Joel; Sand, Michael

    2004-09-01

    The aim of Phase II of the Men's Attitudes to Life Events and Sexuality (MALES) Study is to explore PDE5 inhibitor treatment seeking among men with erectile dysfunction (ED). Phase II of the MALES study involved 2,912 men, aged 20-75 years, from 8 countries (U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and Brazil), who reported ED. Participants were recruited from the MALES Phase I sample [1] and via booster methods (e.g., physician referral, street interception), and completed self-report questionnaires concerning the characteristics of their ED, their efforts to seek PDE5 inhibitor treatment for their sexual dysfunction, and attitudinal and referent influences that potentially affect treatment-seeking. Statistical analyses focus on identification of correlates of PDE5 inhibitor treatment seeking. PDE5 inhibitor utilization is strongly associated with ED sufferers' assessment of the severity of their sexual dysfunction, with their belief that medication for ED is dangerous, and with their perceptions of whether physicians, other professionals, and spouses or family members are supportive of their seeking treatment. ED sufferers who evaluate their sexual dysfunction as severe, who believe that medication for ED is not dangerous, and who perceive support for treatment seeking from referent others, are more likely to utilize PDE5 inhibitor treatment. Findings indicate that perceived ED severity, beliefs about ED medication, and referent influences are strongly correlated with utilization of PDE5 inhibitor therapy. These findings aid our understanding of factors that may incline men with ED to seek-or to avoid-PDE5 inhibitor therapy for their sexual dysfunction, and provide a basis for clinical and educational interventions to assist men with ED to seek appropriate treatment.

  16. Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review

    PubMed Central

    2010-01-01

    Background Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is an Andean plant of the brassica (mustard) family. Preparations from maca root have been reported to improve sexual function. The aim of this review was to assess the clinical evidence for or against the effectiveness of the maca plant as a treatment for sexual dysfunction. Methods We searched 17 databases from their inception to April 2010 and included all randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of any type of maca compared to a placebo for the treatment of healthy people or human patients with sexual dysfunction. The risk of bias for each study was assessed using Cochrane criteria, and statistical pooling of data was performed where possible. The selection of studies, data extraction, and validations were performed independently by two authors. Discrepancies were resolved through discussion by the two authors. Results Four RCTs met all the inclusion criteria. Two RCTs suggested a significant positive effect of maca on sexual dysfunction or sexual desire in healthy menopausal women or healthy adult men, respectively, while the other RCT failed to show any effects in healthy cyclists. The further RCT assessed the effects of maca in patients with erectile dysfunction using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction-5 and showed significant effects. Conclusion The results of our systematic review provide limited evidence for the effectiveness of maca in improving sexual function. However, the total number of trials, the total sample size, and the average methodological quality of the primary studies were too limited to draw firm conclusions. More rigorous studies are warranted. PMID:20691074

  17. Penile fracture: outcomes of early surgical intervention.

    PubMed

    Swanson, Daniel E W; Polackwich, A Scott; Helfand, Brian T; Masson, Puneet; Hwong, James; Dugi, Daniel D; Martinez Acevedo, Ann C; Hedges, Jason C; McVary, Kevin T

    2014-11-01

    To report a series of penile fractures, describing preoperative evaluation, surgical repair, and long-term outcomes. Medical records from Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Oregon Health & Science University from 2002 to 2011 were reviewed. Clinical presentation, preoperative evaluation, time from injury, mechanism and site of injury, and presence of urethral injury were assessed. Outcomes including erectile dysfunction, penile curvature, and voiding symptoms were evaluated using International Prostate Symptom Score and International Index of Erectile Function scores. Twenty-nine patients with 30 separate episodes of penile fractures presenting to the emergency room were identified. Mean patient age was 43 ± 9.6 years. The time from presentation to the initiation of surgery was 5.5 ± 4.4 hours. Mechanism of injury was intercourse in 26 of 30 fractures with the remaining attributed to masturbation or "rolling over." Immediate surgical repair was offered to all patients. Twenty-seven patients underwent surgery. Urethral injury was noted in 5 of the 27. The site of fracture was at the proximal shaft in 11, mid shaft in 12, and distal shaft in 4 patients. The mean follow-up period was 14.3 ± 15.8 weeks. Nine patients reported new mild erectile dysfunction or penile curvature. One patient reported new irritative voiding symptoms. The most common mechanism of penile fracture was from sexual intercourse, and frequent concomitant urethral injuries were observed. The frequency of concomitant urethral injury was higher than in previous studies. Although we observed high incidence of erectile dysfunction or penile curvature with early surgical repair, we retain it as the favored approach. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Uroflowmetric assessment of acute effects of sildenafil on the voiding of men with erectile dysfunction and symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia.

    PubMed

    Guven, Esref O; Balbay, Mevlana D; Mete, Kilciler; Serefoglu, Ege C

    2009-01-01

    To evaluate the acute effects of sildenafil (50 mg) on the micturation of men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and concomitant benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) using uroflowmetric parameters. A total of 68 male patients randomized into two groups (36 treatment, 32 control groups) with International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) greater than 7 and International Index of Erectile Dysfunction-erectile function domain score lower than 26 were enrolled in the study. Patients in the treatment group received a single dose of 50 mg of oral sildenafil. Patients in the control group received no treatment. Prevoiding urine volumes determined ultrasonographically and voided urine volumes were also recorded. Statistical comparisons were made with the use of analysis of variance (ANOVA). Mean ages were similar between treatment and control groups (60.4 +/- 9.8 and 58.6 +/- 8.3 years, respectively, P = 0.430). In the treatment group the maximum and average flow rates increased significantly (Q (max) from 15.6 +/- 6.8 cc/s to 19.3 +/- 7.2 cc/s, P < 0.0001; Q (avg) from 7.3 +/- 3.0 cc/s to 9.1 +/- 3.0 cc/s, P < 0.0001) with sildenafil administration, while other parameters studied remained unchanged. Despite the limitations of variations of uroflowmetry, this study showed that sildenafil improves Q (max) and Q (avg) in patients suffering from ED with concomitant BPH-LUTS. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate the effects on IPSS, side effects, and drug interactions.

  19. Hypercaloric Diet Establishes Erectile Dysfunction in Rat: Mechanisms Underlying the Endothelial Damage

    PubMed Central

    de Souza, Iara L. L.; Barros, Bárbara C.; de Oliveira, Giuliana A.; Queiroga, Fernando R.; Toscano, Lydiane T.; Silva, Alexandre S.; Silva, Patrícia M.; Interaminense, Leylliane F. L.; Cavalcante, Fabiana de Andrade; da Silva, Bagnólia A.

    2017-01-01

    Obesity is characterized by an excessive increase in body mass, leading to endothelial damage that may favor the development of erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection long enough to have a sexual intercourse. In this context, different ED models were developed, however the high price of special animals or the long period to establish the disease has limited studies in this field. Therefore, this study proposed to establish and characterize a novel model of ED in rats associated to a hypercaloric diet consumption. Animals were randomly divided into control group (CG), which received a standard diet, and obese group (OG), fed with a hypercaloric diet during 8 weeks. Rat's erectile function was evaluated in vivo and in vitro. Food and caloric intake of OG were reduced compared to CG, due to an increased diet energy efficiency. However, OG presented an increased body mass, inguinal, retroperitoneal and epididymal adipose tissues, as well as body adiposity index at the end of experimental protocol. In erectile function analysis, there was a decrease in the number and the latency of penile erections in OG. Additionally, the contractile reactivity of corpus cavernosum was increased in OG, favoring penile detumescence and related to a reduced nitric oxide bioavailability and an increased in contractile prostaglandins levels as a consequence of endothelial damage. Moreover, the endothelium-relaxation reactivity of corpus cavernosum was attenuated in OG associated to the oxidative stress. Thus, it was provided a model for advances in sexual dysfunction field and drug discovery for ED treatment. PMID:29085300

  20. Comparison of the effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy and a vacuum erectile device on penile erectile dysfunction: a randomized clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Qi, Tao; Ye, Lei; Wang, Bo; Zhang, Bin; Chen, Jun

    2017-11-01

    This randomized clinical trial (October 2012-December 2013) compared extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and a vacuum erectile device (VED) for management of erectile dysfunction (ED). Consecutive Chinese patients (20-55 years) with ED, abnormal nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR), and international index of erectile function-5 items (IIEF-5) score <22 were randomized to receive ESWT or VED (twice weekly, 4 weeks). Primary outcomes were treatment efficacy and success rate 4 weeks after completion of therapy. Secondary outcomes included changes in IIEF-5 score, sex encounter profile (SEP) score, erection hardness score (EHS) and NPTR assessments 4 weeks post-therapy. All enrolled patients (n = 30 per group) completed the study. At baseline, age, IIEF-5 score, SEP score, EHS, and NPTR assessments were similar between groups. Four weeks post-therapy, IIEF-5 score increased in the ESWT (15.03 ± 3.00 vs. 11.60 ± 2.28) and VED (15.10 ± 3.06 vs. 11.53 ± 2.27) groups, as did SEP score, EHS, and NPTR measures (all P < .05). Efficacy in the ESWT and VED groups was excellent in 10% and 13.3%, respectively, and moderate in 63.3% and 53.3%, respectively. Treatment success rate in the ESWT and VED groups was 73.3% and 67.7%, respectively. VED use and ESWT have comparable efficacies in the treatment of ED in Chinese patients.

  1. Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave as a Novel Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Pan, Michael M; Raees, Ayman; Kovac, Jason R

    2016-03-01

    The paradigm of erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment was fundamentally altered following the introduction of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Unfortunately, a significant number of men exhibit a suboptimal response and require additional management strategies. One of the novel, minimally invasive strategies being developed is low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy. Used in the hope of delaying placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis, the final phase of ED treatment, low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy is a unique application of an established technology that may hopefully one day expand the medical options for patients with ED. This commentary will highlight the physiology underlying this technique and summarize the most recent studies. © The Author(s) 2015.

  2. Evaluation of the efficacy of once-daily use of tadalafil vs. on-demand use. Is there a cumulative effect?

    PubMed

    Jamshidian, Hasan; Borhan, Armin; Kooraki, Soheil; Borhan, Arash

    2012-11-01

    To assess and compare the efficacy of on-demand versus daily dosages of tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The case-control double-blind study was conducted at the Department of Urology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Imam Khomeini Hospital, from March 2008 to January 2010. It comprised 100 males suffering from erectile dysfunction who were randomised into two groups; one receiving on-demand tadalafil (10mg), and the other receiving once-daily dose of tadalafil (10mg). The erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function was evaluated initially at the baseline and then at 24 weeks after treatment. To evaluate the possible cumulative effect of tadalafil, the index was measured in the group taking daily tadalafil at 12 weeks after the initiation of the treatment. SPSS 13 was used for statistical analysis. The study showed significant improvement in the mean erectile function domain measured after 24 weeks in both daily (17.08+/-3.896 vs baseline 12.64+/-2.92; p<0.001) and on-demand (15.46+/-3.64 vs baseline 13.48+/-2.86; p<0.001) groups. Data showed significant difference in mean scores between on-demand and daily groups (p = 0.03). In daily group, the mean domain measured at the 24th week showed significant improvement compared to the mean score of the 12th week (p <0.001). Treatment with daily tadalafil was associated with a significantly higher erectile function domain score compared to the on-demand use. The significant difference between mean scores of 12th week and 24th week in the daily group points towards the possible cumulative effect of tadalafil.

  3. Superoxide dismutase analog (TEMPOL: 4-hydroxy-2, 2, 6, 6-tetramethylpiperidine 1-oxyl) treatment restores erectile function in diabetes-induced impotence

    PubMed Central

    Kawakami, Toshifumi; Urakami, Shinji; Hirata, Hiroshi; Tanaka, Yuichiro; Nakajima, Koichi; Enokida, Hideki; Shiina, Hiroaki; Ogishima, Tatsuya; Tokizane, Takashi; Kawamoto, Ken; Miura, Kazukiyo; Ishii, Nobuhisa; Dahiya, Rajvir

    2014-01-01

    We hypothesized that administration of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic Tempol (4-hydroxy-2, 2, 6, 6-tetramethylpiperidine 1-oxyl) may reverse diabetes induced ED(erectile dysfunction). To test this hypothesis, ROS related genes (SOD1, SOD2, GPx1, CAT, NOS2, NOS3), erectile functional studies, and immunohistochemical analysis were performed in diabetic rats treated with or without Tempol. Thirty Sprague-Dawley (3–4 months old) rats were divided into 3 groups (n=10 each), 20 with diabetes (diabetic control and Tempol treatment) and 10 healthy controls. Twelve weeks after induction of diabetes by streptozotocin and Tempol treatment, all groups underwent in vivo cavernous nerve stimulation. Rat crura were harvested and expression of antioxidative defense enzymes examined by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. To confirm the RT-PCR results, we performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) for catalase (CAT) and iNOS (NOS2). Nitration of tyrosine groups in proteins was also examined by IHC. Mean intracavernous pressure in the diabetic group was significantly lower than in healthy controls (p<0.001) and was reversed by Tempol treatment (p<0.0108). NOS2 protein expression was significantly increased in diabetic animals compared to healthy controls and Tempol restored NOS2 protein level. Nitrotyrosine was also higher in diabetic animals and though Tempol treatment decreased its formation, it remained higher than that found in healthy controls. This study suggests that Tempol treatment increased erectile function through modulating oxidative stress related genes in diabetic rats. This is the first report about the relationship between diabetes induced erectile dysfunction and oxidative stress, and anti-oxidative therapy using the superoxide dismutase mimetic, Tempol to restore erectile function. PMID:19554009

  4. Self-Esteem, Confidence, and Relationships in Men Treated with Sildenafil Citrate for Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Althof, Stanley E; O' Leary, Michael P; Cappelleri, Joseph C; Glina, Sidney; King, Rosie; Tseng, Li-Jung; Bowler, Jessica L

    2006-01-01

    BACKGROUND Men with erectile dysfunction (ED) often have low self-esteem, confidence, and sexual relationship satisfaction. OBJECTIVE We evaluated the impact of sildenafil citrate and its generalizability across cultures on self-esteem, confidence, and sexual relationship satisfaction in men with ED using the Self-Esteem And Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire. DESIGN Pooled analysis of 2 double-blind, placebo-controlled, flexible-dose trials of sildenafil with identical protocols: 1 was conducted in the United States and the other in Mexico, Brazil, Australia, and Japan. PATIENTS Men ≥18 years old with ED. MEASUREMENTS The impact of treatment on psychosocial factors associated with ED was determined by patient responses to the SEAR questionnaire. Erectile function was determined using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and a global efficacy question. Successful sexual intercourse attempts were derived from event logs of sexual activity. Treatment effect sizes were calculated for all study outcomes. RESULTS Compared with patients who received placebo (n = 274), patients who received sildenafil (n = 279) reported significantly greater improvements (P<.0001) in self-esteem, confidence, sexual relationship satisfaction, and in all sexual function domains of the IIEF. Treatment effect sizes were large (range, 0.7 to 1.2) for all SEAR components, and improvement in psychosocial measures showed moderate to high correlations (range, 0.50 to 0.83, P<.0001) with improvement in erectile function, percentage of successful intercourse attempts, and global efficacy. CONCLUSIONS In men with ED from 5 different nations, sildenafil produced substantial improvements in self-esteem, confidence, and sexual relationship satisfaction. Improvements in these psychosocial factors were observed crossculturally and correlated significantly and tangibly with improvements in erectile function. PMID:16836626

  5. The Association of Body Size and Composition with Erectile Dysfunction in Older Men: Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study

    PubMed Central

    Garimella, Pranav S.; Paudel, Misti L.; Ensrud, Kristine E.; Marshall, Lynn M.; Taylor, Brent C.; Fink, Howard A.

    2012-01-01

    Objectives To examine the association of body size and composition with erectile dysfunction (ED) in older men. Design Cross-sectional analysis of the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men study. Setting Six U.S. clinical sites. Participants Community-dwelling men aged 65 years and older. Measurements Body composition measures using anthropometry (body weight, body mass index [BMI]) and dual x-ray absorptiometry (total body fat percent, trunk fat percent, ratio of trunk and total body fat). Erectile dysfunction was assessed using the single item Massachusetts Male Aging Study (MMAS) scale and the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF-5). Results Among men completing the MMAS scale (n=4108), prevalence of complete ED was 42%. Among sexually active men completing the IIEF-5 questionnaire (n=1659), prevalence of moderate to severe ED was 56%. In multivariate-adjusted analyses reporting prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), the prevalence of MMAS-defined complete ED was significantly increased in men in the highest quartile of increased body weight PR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.16-1.34), total body fat percentage (PR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.13-1.40), and trunk fat percentage (PR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.15-1.38), and in men with BMI >30.0 kg/m2 compared to those with BMI 22.0-24.9 kg/m2 (PR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.05-1.31). Associations appeared similar for IIEF-5 defined moderate to severe ED in analyses adjusted for age and study site. Conclusion In a cohort of older men, increased body weight, BMI, and total body fat percent were independently associated with increased prevalence of moderate to severe and complete ED. Future studies should investigate whether interventions to promote weight loss and fat loss will improve erectile function in older men. PMID:23311552

  6. Evaluation of erectile dysfunction risk factors in young male survivors of colorectal cancer.

    PubMed

    Sendur, Mehmet A N; Aksoy, Sercan; Ozdemir, Nuriye Y; Yaman, Sebnem; Yazici, Ozan; Bulent Akinci, Muhammed; Uncu, Dogan; Zengin, Nurullah; Altundag, Kadri

    2014-01-01

    Improved long-term survival of colorectal cancer patients (CRC) treated with surgery and/or chemotherapy ± radiotherapy (RT) has led to increased awareness of long-term side effects, including effecting sexual life, which can ultimately affect the quality of life in these patients. Because the absolute risk factors of erectile dysfunction (ED) have not been defined in CRC patients, the aim of this research was to identify the severity and the absolute risk factors of ED in male CRC survivors. The medical records of 61 male survivors of CRC treated with surgery and/or chemotherapy ± RT were retrieved from the medical oncology outpatient clinics during routine follow-up visits in 2011-2012. Patients older than 55 years and those with ED history before diagnosis were excluded. International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire was filled in by the patients. The patient mean age was 47.6±6.7 years (range 18-55) at the time of filling in the questionnaire. According to the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score, 83.6% of the patients had some degree of ED. The risk factors of erectile dysfunction were advancing age (p=0.01), tumor location (p=0.01), type of surgery (p=0.02), presence of stoma (p=0.03)) and RT (p=0.005). Chemotherapy didn't impact ED (p=0.46). Also, there was no significant correlation between smoking status, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, stage of the tumor and ED. Also hormonal disturbances such as serum FSH, LH and testesterone levels did not affect the presence of ED. Overall, 83.6% of the male CRC survivors had some degree of ED according to the IIEF. The risk factors of ED were advancing age, tumor location, type of operation, presence of stoma and RT. Clinicians should be aware of these risk factors to offer their patients adequate treatment options and also come up with new treatment strategies necessary to reduce further ED in CRC survivors.

  7. [Sodium ferulate treatment and interventional mechanism reverse erectile dysfunction in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats].

    PubMed

    Xu, Xiao-Hong; Tan, Fu-Qing; Zhao, Tong-Feng; Hu, Hua; Xiao, Kun; Gu, Wei

    2009-06-23

    To investigate the effect and mechanism of sodium ferulate (SF) on reversing erectile dysfunction in diabetes mellitus (DM) rats. Forty-four male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were induced for diabetes by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Then the successful models were randomly divided into DM + SF group and DM group (22 rats each respectively). The rats in DM +SF group were treated with sodium ferulate (100 mg x kg(-1) x d(-1)) through a daily gastric lavage. At Week 12, the erectile function of all rats was evaluated and serum samples were harvested. The SOD, CAT, NOS, MDA and NO levels in corpus cavernosum and serum were all measured. The pathologic change in penile cavernous body was observed microscopically. The diabetic rat models were successfully established. The erectile function was much better in normal control group and DM + SF group than that in DM group. And the penile erection rates in three groups were 100%, 66% and 22% respectively. The activity levels of SOD, CAT and NOS were markedly decreased in DM group as compared to those in normal control group and DM + SF group (P < 0.01). The NO content was approximately equal in normal control group and DM + SF group (112 +/- 28) nmol/ml vs (137 +/- 25) nmol/ml. But both were much higher than that in DM group (56 +/- 10) nmol/ml, both P < 0.01. The MDA content was markedly increased in DM group as compared to those in normal control group and DM + SF group (both P < 0.01). Microscopically, muscle fibers in penile cavernous body arranged disorderly, muscular mantle damaged and desmoplasia scattered among muscle fibers in DM group. Sodium ferulate may play interventional roles in reversing diabetic erectile dysfunction through metabolic regulation of free radicals, antagonism of oxidative insults and enhancement of NO production.

  8. Constitutive NOS uncoupling and NADPH oxidase upregulation in the penis of type 2 diabetic men with erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Musicki, Biljana; Burnett, Arthur L.

    2016-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) involves dysfunctional nitric oxide (NO) signaling and increased oxidative stress in the penis. However, the mechanisms of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) dysregulation, and the sources of oxidative stress, are not well defined, particularly at the human level. The objective of this study was to define whether uncoupled eNOS and nNOS, and NADPH oxidase upregulation, contribute to the pathogenesis of ED in T2DM men. Penile erectile tissue was obtained from 9 T2DM patients with ED who underwent penile prosthesis surgery for ED, and from 6 control patients without T2DM or ED who underwent penectomy for penile cancer. The dimer-to-monomer protein expression ratio, an indicator of uncoupling for both eNOS and nNOS, total protein expressions of eNOS and nNOS, as well as protein expressions of NADPH oxidase catalytic subunit gp91phox (an enzymatic source of oxidative stress) and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal [4-HNE] and nitrotyrosine (markers of oxidative stress) were measured by Western blot in this tissue. In the erectile tissue of T2DM men, eNOS and nNOS uncoupling and protein expressions of NADPH oxidase subunit gp91phox, 4-HNE- and nitrotyrosine-modified proteins were significantly (p<0.05) increased compared to control values. Total eNOS and nNOS protein expressions were not significantly different between the groups. In conclusion, mechanisms of T2DM-associated ED in the human penis may involve uncoupled eNOS and nNOS and NADPH oxidase upregulation. Our description of molecular factors contributing to the pathogenesis of T2DM-associated ED at the human level is relevant for advancing clinically therapeutic approaches to restore erectile function in T2DM patients. PMID:28076881

  9. Treatment of Sexual Disorders in the 1990s: An Integrated Approach.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rosen, Raymond C.; Leiblum, Sandra R.

    1995-01-01

    Reviews existing data regarding the etiology and treatment of male and female sexual dysfunctions. Discusses the use of multidimensional assessment models, especially in the evaluation of erectile dysfunction and sexual pain disorders. Despite the conceptual and technological sophistication of current approaches, treatment outcomes are…

  10. Correlation of the erectile dysfunction with lesions of cerebrovascular accidents.

    PubMed

    Jeon, Sang-Wohn; Yoo, Koo Han; Kim, Tae-Hwan; Kim, Jin Il; Lee, Choong-Hyun

    2009-01-01

    The recent human and animal studies indicate that the central supraspinal systems controlling penile erection, which are localized predominantly in the parts of the frontal lobe and limbic system, are reported to be involved in erection. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the correlation of the erectile dysfunction (ED) with lesions of cerebrovascular accidents (CVA). Forty-four men were selected among the CVA patients who had visited our hospital between March and July 2006. The audiovisual sexual stimulation (AVSS) test was conducted using Rigiscan device on the patients, whose erectile domain score of the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire (IIEF) was less than 22. The criteria for adequate erectile function was the erectile events of > 60% rigidity for > or = 5 minutes. The CVA lesions were classified into frontal lobe, cortex except frontal lobe, basal ganglia, thalamus, and other area. Each CVA lesions of ED group and non-ED group were compared. IIEF, AVSS using Rigiscan. Thirty-eight patients' erectile domain score of IIEF were less than 22, and the AVSS test was conducted on them. Eighteen patients showed no ED, and 20 patients showed ED. The mean age of the ED group was 60.40 +/- 2.2, and the mean age of non-ED group was 55.29 +/- 1.85. There was no statistically significant difference between the mean age of both groups (P = 0.081). As each CVA lesions of both groups were compared, the CVA lesions of the thalamic area in the ED group were significantly more than in the non-ED group (P = 0.010). Patients (47.4%) who were suggestive of ED in the IIEF has no ED in the AVSS test. The patients who had CVA lesions in the thalamic area more commonly showed ED than the patients with CVA lesions of any other areas.

  11. Variable coding sequence protein A1 as a marker for erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Tong, Yuehong; Tar, Moses; Davelman, Felix; Christ, George; Melman, Arnold; Davies, Kelvin P

    2006-08-01

    To investigate whether variable coding sequence protein A1 (Vcsa1) is down-regulated in rat models of diabetes and ageing, and to investigate the role of Vcsa1 in erectile function, as Vcsa1 is the most down-regulated gene in the corpora of a rat model of neurogenic erectile dysfunction (ED). Quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase-chain reaction was used to determine Vcsa1 expression in the corpora of rats in three models of ED, i.e. streptozotocin-induced diabetes, retired breeder (old), and neurogenic (bilaterally ligated cavernosal nerves), and in control rats. To confirm a physiological role of Vcsa1 in erectile function, we carried out gene transfer studies using a plasmid in which Vcsa1 was expressed from a cytomegalovirus promoter (pVAX-Vcsa1). This plasmid was injected intracorporally into old rats, and the effect on physiology of corporal tissue was analysed by intracorporal/blood pressure (ICP/BP) measurement and histological analysis, and compared with the effects of a positive control plasmid (pVAX-hSlo, which we previously reported to restore erectile function in diabetic and ageing rats) and a negative control plasmid (pVAX). In each rat model of ED there was a significant down-regulation of the Vcsa1 transcript of at least 10-fold in corporal tissue. Remarkably, intracorporal injection with 80 microg pVAX-Vcsa1 caused priapism, as indicated by visible prolonged erection, histological appearance, and elevated resting ICP/BP. Lower doses of pVAX-Vcsa1 (5 and 25 microg) increased ICP/BP over that in untreated controls. These results show that Vcsa1 has a role in erectile function and might be a molecular marker for organic ED. The role of Vcsa1 in erectile function suggests that it could represent a novel therapeutic target for treating ED.

  12. Psychological determinants of erectile dysfunction among middle-aged men.

    PubMed

    Aghighi, A; Grigoryan, V H; Delavar, A

    2015-01-01

    We describe psychological determinants of erectile dysfunction (ED) among middle-aged men with no identifiable medical risk factors and compare them with a sample of young individuals. Two groups of young (⩽ 30 years, n = 59) and middle-aged men (⩾ 40 years, n = 63) who scored ⩽ 25 on the erectile functioning domain of the International Index of Erectile Functioning were enrolled. Patients were included if they had no metabolic diseases, prostate problems or external genitalia abnormalities. Patients were not included if they were smokers, excessive drinkers or took medications known to cause ED. To assess psychopathology, symptom check list 90-revised (SCL-90-R) was administered. Structural equation modeling was performed to assess the relationship between psychopathology and ED. One in five men had severe ED, and the proportion was not different between the two groups. Middle-aged men had lower scores on different SCL-90-R domains. In both age groups, somatization and interpersonal sensitivity contributed to ED. Among younger individuals, anxiety and psychosis-related domains were also associated with ED. Unique contributors to ED in middle-aged men were depression and additional questions. In conclusion, among middle-aged men, psychological factors significantly contribute to ED when no medical risk factors are present. The pattern and composition of distress depicts distinct features, not seen in young age.

  13. The vascular and neurogenic factors associated with erectile dysfunction in patients after pelvic fractures.

    PubMed

    Guan, Yong; Wendong, Sun; Zhao, Shengtian; Liu, Tongyan; Liu, Yuqiang; Zhang, Xiulin; Yuan, Mingzhen

    2015-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication of pelvic fractures. To identify the vascular and neurogenic factors associated with ED, 120 patients admitted with ED after traumatic pelvic fracture between January 2009 and June 2013 were enrolled in this study. All patients answered the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire. Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) testing confirmed the occurrence of ED in 96 (80%) patients on whom penile duplex ultrasound and neurophysiological testing were further performed. Of these ED patients 29 (30%) were demonstrated only with vascular abnormality, 41 (42.7%) were detected only with neural abnormality, 26 (27.1%) revealed mixed abnormalities. Of the 55 patients (29+26) with vascular problems, 7 patients (12.7%) with abnormal arterial response to intracavernous injection of Bimix (15mg papaverine and 1mg phentolamine), 31 (56.4%) with corporal veno-occlusive dysfunction and 17 (30.9%) had both problems. Of the 67 (41+26) patients with abnormal neurophysiological outcomes, 51 (76.1%) with abnormal bulbocavernosus re?ex (BCR), 20 (29.9%) with pathological pudendal nerve evoked potentials (PDEPs) and 25 (37.3%) with abnormal posterior tibial somatosensory nerve evoked potentials (PTSSEPs). Our observation indicated that neurogenic factors are important for the generation of ED in patients with pelvic fracture; venous impotence is more common than arteriogenic ED.

  14. Treatment profile and complications associated with cryotherapy for localized prostate cancer: A population-based study

    PubMed Central

    Roberts, Calpurnyia B.; Jang, Thomas L.; Shao, Yu-Hsuan; Kabadi, Shaum; Moore, Dirk F.; Lu-Yao, Grace L.

    2011-01-01

    The aim of this study was to assess the treatment patterns and 3 to 12-month complication rates associated with receiving prostate cryotherapy in a population-based study. Men > 65 years diagnosed with incident localized prostate cancer in Surveillance Epidemiology End Results (SEER) - Medicare linked database from 2004 to 2005 were identified. A total of 21,344 men were included in the study, of which 380 were treated initially with cryotherapy. Recipients of cryotherapy versus aggressive forms of prostate therapy (i.e. radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy) were more likely to be older, have one co-morbidity, low income, live in the South, and be diagnosed with indolent cancer. Complication rates increased from 3 to 12 months following cryotherapy. By the twelfth month, the rates for urinary incontinence, lower urinary tract obstruction, erectile dysfunction, and bowel bleeding reached 9.8%, 28.7%, 20.1%, and 3.3%, respectively. Diagnoses of hydronephrosis, urinary fistula, or bowel fistula were not evident. The rates of corrective invasive procedures for lower urinary tract obstruction and erectile dysfunction were both <2.9% by the twelfth month. Overall, complications post cryotherapy were modest; however, diagnoses for lower urinary tract obstruction and erectile dysfunction were common. PMID:21519347

  15. Diagnosing erectile dysfunction: the penile dynamic colour duplex ultrasound revisited.

    PubMed

    Aversa, A; Bruzziches, R; Spera, G

    2005-12-01

    A number of disease processes of the penis including Peyronie's disease, priapism, penile fractures and tumors are clearly visualized with ultrasound. Diagnostic evaluation of erectile dysfunction (ED) by penile dynamic colour-duplex Doppler ultrasonography (D-CDDU) is actually considered a second level approach to ED patients because of the fact that intracavernous injections test IV with prostaglandin-E(1) may provide important information about the patients' erectile capacity. However, no direct vascular imaging and a high percentage of false negative diagnoses of vasculogenic ED are its major pitfalls and subsequent treatment decisions remain quite limited. The occurrence of ED and its sentinel relationship to cardiovascular disease has prompted more accurate vascular screening in all patients even in the absence of cardiovascular risk factors. The sonographic evaluation of the intima-media thickness of the carotid arteries may sometimes represent an early manifestation of diffuse atherosclerotic disease and endothelial damage. This latter finding is often the cause of failure to oral agents, i.e. phosphodiesterase inhibitors, because of inability of the dysfunctional endothelium to release nitric oxide. D-CDDU represents an accurate tool to investigate cavernous artery inflow and venous leakage when compared with more invasive diagnostic techniques i.e. selective arteriography and dynamic infusion cavernosometry along with cavernosography.

  16. Treatment with CB2 Agonist JWH-133 Reduces Histological Features Associated with Erectile Dysfunction in Hypercholesterolemic Mice

    PubMed Central

    Fraga-Silva, Rodrigo Araujo; Costa-Fraga, Fabiana Pereira; Faye, Younouss; Savergnini, Silvia Quintao; Lenglet, Sébastien; Mach, François; Steffens, Sabine; Stergiopulos, Nikolaos; Souza dos Santos, Robson Augusto; da Silva, Rafaela Fernandes

    2013-01-01

    Hypercholesterolemia is one of the most important risk factors for erectile dysfunction, mostly due to the impairment of oxidative stress and endothelial function in the penis. The cannabinoid system might regulate peripheral mechanisms of sexual function; however, its role is still poorly understood. We investigated the effects of CB2 activation on oxidative stress and fibrosis within the corpus cavernosum of hypercholesterolemic mice. Apolipoprotein-E-knockout mice were fed with a western-type diet for 11 weeks and treated with JWH-133 (selective CB2 agonist) or vehicle during the last 3 weeks. CB2 receptor expression, total collagen content, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production within the penis were assessed. In vitro corpus cavernosum strips preparation was performed to evaluate the nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. CB2 protein expression was shown in cavernosal endothelial and smooth muscle cells of wild type and hypercholesterolemic mice. Treatment with JWH-133 reduced ROS production and NADPH-oxidase expression in hypercholesterolemic mice penis. Furthermore, JWH-133 increased endothelial NO synthase expression in the corpus cavernosum and augmented NO bioavailability. The decrease in oxidative stress levels was accompanied with a reduction in corpus cavernosum collagen content. In summary, CB2 activation decreased histological features, which were associated with erectile dysfunction in hypercholesterolemic mice. PMID:24302957

  17. Therapeutic effects of adipose-derived stem cells-based microtissues on erectile dysfunction in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

    PubMed Central

    Zhou, Feng; Hui, Yu; Xin, Hua; Xu, Yong-De; Lei, Hong-En; Yang, Bi-Cheng; Guan, Rui-Li; Li, Meng; Hou, Jian-Quan; Xin, Zhong-Cheng

    2017-01-01

    This study aimed to explore the therapeutic effects of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs)-based microtissues (MTs) on erectile dysfunction (ED) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Fifty-six 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats received intraperitoneal injection of STZ (60 mg kg−1), and 8 weeks later, the determined diabetic rats randomly received intracavernous (IC) injection of phosphate buffer solution (PBS), ADSCs, or MTs. Another eight normal rats equally got IC injection of PBS. MTs were generated with a hanging drop method, and the injected cells were tracked in ADSC- and MT-injected rats. Four weeks after the treatments, intracavernous pressure (ICP), histopathological changes in corpus cavernosum (CC), and functional proteins were measured. Rat cytokine antibody array was used to detect ADSCs or MTs lysate. The results showed that MTs expressed vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), nerve growth factor (NGF), and tumor necrosis factor-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6). MTs injection had a higher retention than ADSCs injection and MTs treatment improved ICP, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression, smooth muscle, and endothelial contents in diabetic rats, ameliorated local inflammation in CC better. Thus, our findings demonstrate that IC injection of MTs improves erectile function and histopathological changes in STZ-induced diabetic rats and appears to be more promising than traditional ADSCs. The underlying mechanisms involve increased cell retention accompanied with neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory behaviors of the paracrine factors. PMID:27345005

  18. Sexual dysfunction in subjects treated with inhibitors of 5α-reductase for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a comprehensive review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Corona, G; Tirabassi, G; Santi, D; Maseroli, E; Gacci, M; Dicuio, M; Sforza, A; Mannucci, E; Maggi, M

    2017-07-01

    Despite their efficacy in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, the popularity of inhibitors of 5α-reductase (5ARIs) is limited by their association with adverse sexual side effects. The aim of this study was to review and meta-analyze currently available randomized clinical trials evaluating the rate of sexual side effects in men treated with 5ARIs. An extensive Medline Embase and Cochrane search was performed including the following words: 'finasteride', 'dutasteride', 'benign prostatic hyperplasia'. Only placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials evaluating the effect of 5ARI in subjects with benign prostatic hyperplasia were considered. Of 383 retrieved articles, 17 were included in this study. Randomized clinical trials enrolled 24,463 in the active and 22,270 patients in the placebo arms, respectively, with a mean follow-up of 99 weeks and mean age of 64.0 years. No difference was observed between trials using finasteride or dutasteride as the active arm considering age, trial duration, prostate volume or International Prostatic Symptoms Score at enrollment. Overall, 5ARIs determined an increased risk of hypoactive sexual desire [OR = 1.54 (1.29; 1.82); p < 0.0001] and erectile dysfunction [OR = 1.47 (1.29; 1.68); p < 0.0001]. No difference between finasteride and dutasteride regarding the risk of hypoactive sexual desire and erectile dysfunction was observed. Meta-regression analysis showed that the risk of hypoactive sexual desire and erectile dysfunction was higher in subjects with lower Q max at enrollment and decreased as a function of trial follow-up. Conversely, no effect of age, low urinary tract symptom or prostate volume at enrollment as well as Q max at end-point was observed. In conclusion, present data show that the use of 5ARI significantly increases the risk of erectile dysfunction and hypoactive sexual desire in subjects with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Patients should be adequately informed before 5ARIs are prescribed. © 2017 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

  19. In men with erectile dysfunction, satisfaction with quality of erections correlates with erection hardness, treatment satisfaction, and emotional well-being.

    PubMed

    Kaminetsky, Jed C; Depko, Andrzej J; Ströberg, Peter; Buvat, Jacques; Tseng, Li-Jung; Stecher, Vera J

    2009-03-01

    The validated Quality of Erection Questionnaire (QEQ) evaluates satisfaction with erection quality. To collate QEQ data, including correlations between QEQ outcomes and outcomes assessing emotional well-being, treatment satisfaction, and erection hardness after sildenafil citrate treatment. In four trials, men older than 18 years and with erectile dysfunction, a stable sexual partner, and no recent phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor use were randomized to double-blind flexible-dose sildenafil or placebo (1:1 ratio) for 6 or 10 weeks (two trials), fixed-dose 50 mg, 100 mg, and placebo (1:1:1 ratio) for 8 weeks (one trial), and 50 mg and 100 mg (1:1 ratio) for 4 weeks after 4 weeks of single-blind sildenafil 50 mg. Exclusion criteria included recent significant cardiovascular disease, use of nitrates, nitric oxide donors, cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors, or other erectile dysfunction treatment, and sildenafil hypersensitivity or previous severe or serious treatment-related adverse event. Scores on the QEQ, QEQ Question 5 (satisfaction with erection hardness), the Self-Esteem and Relationship Questionnaire, and the Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction; the percentage of occasions with Erection Hardness Score 3 (EHS 3, hard enough for penetration but not completely hard) and/or EHS 4 (completely hard and fully rigid); and Pearson correlation coefficients. 1,296 men (18-80 years) were randomized. Except for the percentage of occasions with EHS 3, all outcomes improved in men treated with sildenafil and correlated positively with the change in QEQ scores in all trials. Satisfaction with the quality of erections, which is easily monitored with the QEQ, correlated positively with measures of emotional well-being and treatment satisfaction and with the change in percentage of erections that were completely hard and fully rigid, but not with the change in percentage of erections that were hard enough for penetration but not completely hard.

  20. Cardiovascular risk and sildenafil.

    PubMed

    Kloner, R A

    2000-07-20

    Sildenafil citrate is the first oral agent approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED); other oral agents are in the process of development. Because the mechanism of action of many of these agents involves vasodilation, there is a potential for interaction with the cardiovascular system. Sildenafil inhibits phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) which is found in the corpus cavernosum and in the systemic vasculature. Sildenafil causes a mild decrease in systemic arterial pressure ( approximately -8/-5.5 mm Hg); it causes a synergistic and often major decrease in systemic arterial pressure in the presence of organic nitrates (nitric oxide donors). Sildenafil is therefore contraindicated in patients taking organic nitrates. A review was made of clinical trials in populations of men with (1) erectile dysfunction; (2) chronic stable ischemic heart disease and erectile dysfunction; and (3) hypertension and erectile dysfunction. This review showed that sildenafil was effective and not associated with an increase in serious cardiovascular adverse events, myocardial infarction (MI), or death compared with placebo. Although there have been spontaneous reports of death among men using sildenafil, there are limitations to spontaneous-event reporting. In addition. the numbers of such reports are well below the expected numbers of deaths when considering the number of men who have received prescriptions for sildenafil and their age and cardiovascular risk factor profile. Because there is a small but finite risk of having a cardiac event with sexual activity, physicians should discuss with their cardiac patients the risks of sexual activity before prescribing any treatment for ED. In addition, they should evaluate their patients' cardiac status when considering the safety of administering any ED treatment that may have systemic vasodilatory properties and can potentially lower blood pressure. In some cases, exercise treadmill testing may be warranted to determine whether ED patients with coronary artery disease can achieve the physiologic workload (4-6 metabolic equivalents) associated with sexual intercourse.

  1. A spontaneous, double-blind, double-dummy cross-over study on the effects of daily vardenafil on arterial stiffness in patients with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Aversa, Antonio; Letizia, Claudio; Francomano, Davide; Bruzziches, Roberto; Natali, Marco; Lenzi, Andrea

    2012-10-18

    It is known that the incidence of endothelial dysfunction in patients with vascular erectile dysfunction (ED) is increased. The effects of daily vardenafil on endothelial function and arterial stiffness in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) have never been investigated. 20 men complaining vascular ED (mean IIEF5=12 ± 6 and peak systolic velocity-PSV=24 ± 2 cm/s) were enrolled in a 4-week, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, crossover study (mean age 59 ± 11) and received either vardenafil 10mg daily or 20mg on-demand with a two-week washout interval. Primary endpoints were variation from baseline of reactive hyperemia (RH) and augmentation index (AI) calculated by fingertip peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT) device. Secondary endpoints were variations of IIEF-5 and SEP3 scores from baseline and plasma surrogate markers of endothelial function, i.e. endothelin-1 (ET-1) and adrenomedullin (ADM). Patients who took daily vardenafil (vs. on-demand) reported significant (P<0.01) improvements in arterial stiffness as evaluated by AI and reduction of plasma ADM levels (p<0.05) but no improvement in average RH. When corrected for heart rate, ADM showed a strong direct relationship with AI (r(2)=0.22; p<0.005). The proportion of patients with an IIEF5 score of ≥ 22 or in SEP3 percentage of success rates were similar. Each treatment resulted in significantly greater IIEF5 scores (p<0.001) and better SEP3 response rates (p<0.0001) compared with baseline. We demonstrated that daily vardenafil improves arterial stiffness and erectile function measurements in men with severe vasculogenic ED. This effect may be mediated, at least in part, by a reduction in ADM circulating levels. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Vardenafil improves ejaculation success rates and self-confidence in men with erectile dysfunction due to spinal cord injury.

    PubMed

    Giuliano, Francois; Rubio-Aurioles, Eusebio; Kennelly, Michael; Montorsi, Francesco; Kim, Edward D; Finkbeiner, Alex E; Pommerville, Peter J; Colopy, Michael W; Wachs, Barton H

    2008-04-01

    Multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study. To assess the effect of the oral phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor, vardenafil, on ejaculation rates and self-confidence in men with spinal cord injury (SCI). Spinal command of male sexual functions is often seriously impaired by traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). A high proportion of men with SCI cannot ejaculate during sexual intercourse. SCI-related ejaculatory disorders are often responsible for male infertility. Sexual dysfunction associated with SCI can also affect men's self-confidence. In this 12-week study, 418 men aged >or=18 years with erectile dysfunction >6 months resulting from a traumatic SCI were randomized to vardenafil (n = 207) or placebo (n = 211) 10 mg for 4 weeks, then maintained or titrated to 5 or 20 mg at weeks 4 and 8. Assessments included questions of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) about ejaculation success and orgasmic perception; the Global Confidence Question; and quality-of-life scales to measure psychological well-being, self-esteem, depression, and mental health status. Overall per patient ejaculation success rates were significantly greater with vardenafil than placebo over 12 weeks of treatment (19% vs. 10%; P < 0.001). At last observation carried forward, the IIEF "orgasmic function" score increased from 2.9 at baseline to 4.0 for vardenafil and from 3.0 at baseline to 3.4 for placebo. Sixteen percent of men receiving vardenafil and 8% receiving placebo felt orgasm "almost always" or "always" at weeks 8-12, compared with 4% and 6%, respectively, at baseline. Significant improvements in confidence scores were observed with vardenafil compared with placebo (P < 0.0001). There were no clinically significant differences between vardenafil and placebo in the quality-of-life measures at the study endpoint, but these had been in the normal range at baseline. Vardenafil significantly improved ejaculation and self-confidence in men with erectile dysfunction due to SCI.

  3. Erectile dysfunction and correlated factors in Brazilian men aged 18-40 years.

    PubMed

    Martins, Fernando Gonini; Abdo, Carmita Helena Najjar

    2010-06-01

    Few population-based studies in erectile dysfunction (ED) included subjects less than 40 years old and analyzed the several factors and consequences potentially associated with this condition. Evaluation of the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and associated factors in a sample of Brazilian men aged 18 to 40 years old. Cross-sectional study in which subjects were contacted in public places of 18 major Brazilian cities and interviewed using an anonymous questionnaire. Survey data were submitted to chi-squared, student's t-test and logistic regression analyses. The data were collected by means of a self-administered questionnaire with 87 questions about sociodemographic variables, general health, habits and lifestyle-related factors, sexual behavior and sexual difficulties, including ED which was assessed by a single question. Prevalence of ED in 1,947 men was 35.0% (73.7% mild, 26.3% moderate/complete). Greater frequency of ED was seen in subjects that never had information about sex, experienced difficulties in the beginning of sexual life and have never masturbated. ED was associated to lower level of education, but not to race, sexual orientation, employment or marital status. Also, no association was found between ED and smoking, alcoholism, obesity, sedentary life, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia, depression or anxiety. ED caused negative impact in men's self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, work and leisure activities, and in sexual life satisfaction. Less than 10% of men with ED had received medical treatment for this problem. Prevalence of ED in this young population was high, mostly of mild severity. Low education and psychosocial problems were associated to ED and, due probably to the sample subjects' young age, no association was found with organic problems. Measures in the fields of education and psychosocial difficulties prevention would have a positive impact in the control of erectile dysfunction in the young population.

  4. Effects of ageing and streptozotocin–induced diabetes on connexin43 and P2 purinoceptor expression in the rat corpora cavernosa and urinary bladder

    PubMed Central

    Suadicani, Sylvia O.; Urban–Maldonado, Marcia; Tar, Moses T.; Melman, Arnold; Spray, David C.

    2012-01-01

    OBJECTIVE To investigate whether ageing and diabetes alter the expression of the gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) and of particular purinoceptor (P2R) subtypes in the corpus cavernosum and urinary bladder, and determine whether changes in expression of these proteins correlate with development of erectile and bladder dysfunction in diabetic and ageing rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Erectile and bladder function of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic, insulin-treated and age-matched control Fischer-344 rats were evaluated 2, 4 and 8 months after diabetes induction by in vivo cystometry and cavernosometry. Corporal and bladder tissue were then isolated at each of these sample times and protein expression levels of Cx43 and of various P2R subtypes were determined by Western blotting. RESULTS In the corpora of control rats ageing was accompanied by a significant decrease in Cx43 and P2X1R, and increase in P2X7R expression. There was decreased Cx43 and increased P2Y4R expression in the ageing control rat bladder. There was a significant negative correlation between erectile capacity and P2X1R expression levels, and a positive correlation between bladder spontaneous activity and P2Y4R expression levels. There was already development of erectile dysfunction and bladder overactivity at 2 months after inducing diabetes, the earliest sample measured in the study. The development of these urogenital complications was accompanied by significant decreases in Cx43, P2Y2R, P2X4R and increase in P2X1R expression in the corpora, and by a doubling in Cx43 and P2Y2R, and significant increase in P2Y4R expression in the bladder. Changes in Cx43 and P2R expression were largely prevented by insulin therapy. CONCLUSION Ageing and diabetes mellitus markedly altered the expression of the gap junction protein Cx43 and of particular P2R subtypes in the rat penile corpora and urinary bladder. These changes in Cx43 and P2R expression provide the molecular substrate for altered gap junction and purinergic signalling in these tissues, and thus probably contribute to the early development of erectile dysfunction and higher detrusor activity in ageing and in diabetic rats. PMID:19154470

  5. Long-term follow-up of treatment of erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy using nerve grafts and end-to-side somatic-autonomic neurorraphy: a new technique.

    PubMed

    Souza Trindade, José Carlos; Viterbo, Fausto; Petean Trindade, André; Fávaro, Wagner José; Trindade-Filho, José Carlos Souza

    2017-06-01

    To study a novel penile reinnervation technique using four sural nerve grafts and end-to-side neurorraphies connecting bilaterally the femoral nerve and the cavernous corpus and the femoral nerve and the dorsal penile nerves. Ten patients (mean [± sd; range] age 60.3 [± 4.8; 54-68] years), who had undergone radical prostatectomy (RP) at least 2 years previously, underwent penile reinnervation in the present study. Four patients had undergone radiotherapy after RP. All patients reported satisfactory sexual activity prior to RP. The surgery involved bridging of the femoral nerve to the dorsal nerve of the penis and the inner part of the corpus cavernosum with sural nerve grafts and end-to-side neurorraphies. Patients were evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire and pharmaco-penile Doppler ultrasonography (PPDU) preoperatively and at 6, 12 and 18 months postoperatively, and using a Clinical Evolution of Erectile Function (CEEF) questionnaire, administered after 36 months. The IIEF scores showed improvements with regard to erectile dysfunction (ED), satisfaction with intercourse and general satisfaction. Evaluation of PPDU velocities did not reveal any difference between the right and left sides or among the different time points. The introduction of nerve grafts neither caused fibrosis of the corpus cavernosum, nor reduced penile vascular flow. CEEF results showed that sexual intercourse began after a mean of 13.7 months with frequency of sexual intercourse varying from once daily to once monthly. Acute complications were minimal. The study was limited by the small number of cases. A total of 60% of patients were able to achieve full penetration, on average, 13 months after reinnervation surgery. Patients previously submitted to radiotherapy had slower return of erectile function. We conclude that penile reinnervation surgery is a viable technique, with effective results, and could offer a new treatment method for ED after RP. © 2017 The Authors BJU International © 2017 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  6. α1A-Adrenergic Receptor Antagonism Improves Erectile and Cavernosal Responses in Rats With Cavernous Nerve Injury and Enhances Neurogenic Responses in Human Corpus Cavernosum From Patients With Erectile Dysfunction Secondary to Radical Prostatectomy.

    PubMed

    Martínez-Salamanca, Juan I; La Fuente, José M; Martínez-Salamanca, Eduardo; Fernández, Argentina; Pepe-Cardoso, Augusto J; Louro, Nuno; Carballido, Joaquín; Angulo, Javier

    2016-12-01

    Cavernous nerve injury (CNI) in rats and radical prostatectomy (RP) in men result in loss of nitrergic function and increased adrenergic-neurogenic contractions of cavernosal tissue. To evaluate the modulation of the α-adrenergic system as a strategy to relieve erectile dysfunction (ED) and functional cavernosal alterations induced by CNI. A non-selective α-blocker (phentolamine 1 mg/kg daily), a selective α 1A -blocker (silodosin [SILOD] 0.1 mg/kg daily), or vehicle was orally administered for 4 weeks after bilateral crush CNI (BCNI). Erectile and neurogenic responses of the corpus cavernosum (CC) were evaluated. The acute effects of SILOD also were evaluated in vivo (0.03 mg/kg intravenously) and ex vivo (10 nmol/L). The effects of SILOD and tadalafil (TAD) on nitrergic relaxations were determined in human CC from patients with ED with a vascular etiology or ED secondary to RP. Erectile responses in vivo in rats and neurogenic contractions and relaxations of rat and human CC. Long-term treatment with SILOD significantly improved erectile responses and allowed for the potentiation of erectile responses by acute treatment with TAD (0.3 mg/kg intravenously) in rats with BCNI. SILOD partly recovered nitrergic relaxations and normalized neurogenic contractions in CC from rats with BCNI. Long-term treatment with SILOD partly prevented BCNI-induced decreases in neuronal nitric oxide synthase expression. Acute administration of SILOD (0.03 mg/kg intravenously) improved erectile responses in vivo and potentiated nitrergic relaxation and decreased neurogenic contractions ex vivo in CC from rats with BCNI. In human CC from patients with ED with a vascular etiology, TAD (30 nmol/L), SILOD (10 nmol/L), or their combination increased nitrergic relaxations. Potentiation by TAD was lost in human CC from patients with ED after RP but was recovered after co-treatment with SILOD. α-Adrenergic modulation, especially selective α 1A -blockade, improves erectile and cavernosal functions after BCNI. Modulation of the adrenergic system, mainly in combination strategies, could have a role in the management of ED after RP. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Low-energy Shock Wave Therapy-A Novel Treatment Option for Erectile Dysfunction in Men With Cardiovascular Disease.

    PubMed

    Kałka, Dariusz; Gebala, Jana; Smoliński, Ryszard; Rusiecki, Lesław; Pilecki, Witold; Zdrojowy, Romuald

    2017-11-01

    Patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) are prone to developing erectile dysfunction (ED) owing to the common risk factors and pathogenesis underlying ED and CVD. As a result, ED affects nearly 80% of male patients with CVD. The efficacy of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, vacuum erection devices, or intracavernosal injection of vasodilating agents is well established in the treatment of ED; however, their use is limited. Low-energy shock wave therapy is a novel modality that may become a causative treatment for ED. This review aims to assess the efficacy and safety of low-energy shock wave therapy in the treatment of ED in men with CVD. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Quality of life, depression, and sexual dysfunction in spouses of female patients with fibromyalgia.

    PubMed

    Tutoglu, Ahmet; Boyaci, Ahmet; Koca, Irfan; Celen, Esra; Korkmaz, Nurdan

    2014-08-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the quality of life and psychological condition of female patients with fibromyalgia and their spouses on sexual function. A total of 32 female patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia and their spouses were analyzed. Thirty married couples were included in the study as the control group. The demographic data of the fibromyalgia patients were recorded, a visual analog scale was used to evaluate the level of pain, and the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire was used to evaluate the impact of the symptoms on the quality of life of the patients. The quality of life of both the patients and the control group were evaluated using the Short Form 36 (SF-36), and psychological variables were evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory. Sexual function was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index for female participants and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) for male participants. The IIEF erectile dysfunction scores were significantly lower in the spouses of female patients with fibromyalgia than in the control group (p < 0.05), and the BDI scores were significantly higher in the spouses of the female patients with fibromyalgia (p < 0.05). Among the SF-36 scores, the emotional and physical roles were significantly lower in the spouses of the female patients with fibromyalgia (p = 0.003 and p = 0.004, respectively). In all spouses of FMS patients and controls, there was a significantly negative correlation between erectile function, the BDI score, and to be married with FMS patient and positive correlations between erectile function and emotional role, social function, mental health, SF-36 pain score, and general health (p < 0.05 for all). In a linear regression model, BDI, to be married with FMS patient and general health were found to affect erectile function (beta regression coefficient = -0.572, SE = 0.082, p = 0.001; beta regression coefficient = -0.332, SE = 1.619, p = 0.007; beta regression coefficient = 0.445, SE = 0.065, p = 0.005, respectively). Being a spouse of a patient with fibromyalgia might significantly interfere with quality of life and lead to a high rate of sexual dysfunction. Spouses of patients with fibromyalgia might also be investigated for sexual dysfunction and quality of life. Treatment programs for this group should be considered.

  9. Efficacy and treatment satisfaction with on-demand tadalafil (Cialis) in men with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Skoumal, René; Chen, Juza; Kula, Krzysztof; Breza, Jan; Calomfirescu, Nicolae; Basson, Bruce R; Kopernicky, Vladimir

    2004-09-01

    Tadalafil (Cialis) is an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type 5, which mediates relaxation of vascular smooth muscle in the corpus cavernosum thus facilitating erection. The purpose of this multicentre, randomized, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate efficacy and treatment satisfaction of on-demand Cialis in men with mild-to-severe erectile dysfunction (ED). Following a 4-week treatment-free run in period, patients stratified into three severity groups by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) Erectile Function (EF) domain score were randomized to receive either placebo or Cialis 20 mg taken on demand over a 12-week period. Efficacy endpoints were change from baseline in IIEF EF domain scores, responses to Sexual Encounter Profile diary (SEP) questions, and responses to the Global Assessment Questions (GAQ). Treatment satisfaction was evaluated using the Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) questionnaire in two of seven participating countries where validated translations were available. Of the 443 men who entered the trial, 409 (mean age, 52 years) formed the intent-to-treat population. Mean baseline demographics and ED severity measures were balanced between treatment groups except for a higher percentage of patients naïve to sildenafil in the tadalafil group compared to placebo (50% versus 36%). The percentage of patients in each IIEF EF severity class (mild, moderate and severe) was 47%, 30% and 23% for placebo patients and 48%, 29% and 23% for tadalafil patients, respectively. Tadalafil was significantly superior to placebo on all primary efficacy measures (IIEF EF domain scores, SEP15, GAQ1; p < 0.001); notably 64% of tadalafil patients achieved a normal IIEF EF domain score at endpoint compared to 16% of placebo patients (p < 0.001). Of the 185 patients completing the EDITS questionnaire (137 receiving Cialis and 48 receiving placebo), tadalafil-treated patients had a median EDITS score of 84 (95%CI 80, 86), which was significantly higher than the median score for placebo-treated patients of 41 (95%CI 32, 59; p < 0.001; Wilcoxon test). The proportion of patients satisfied with treatment (defined as final EDITS score greater than 50) was 87% for the tadalafil-treated group and 46% for the placebo-treated group (p < 0.001; exact test). Adverse events were significantly more common with tadalafil than placebo (p < 0.01) and included primarily headache (7.2% versus 1.9%) and flushing (4.6% versus 0%). One patient discontinued tadalafil treatment due to back pain. In men with mild-to-severe ED, tadalafil 20 mg significantly improves erectile function, demonstrates superior treatment satisfaction relative to placebo, and is well tolerated. This is the first study to yield efficacy data on tadalafil in an Eastern European population of men with erectile dysfunction, and the first to measure satisfaction with the EDITS questionnaire in any study population of men with this condition using tadalafil.

  10. Sialorphin (the mature peptide product of Vcsa1) relaxes corporal smooth muscle tissue and increases erectile function in the ageing rat

    PubMed Central

    Davies, Kelvin P.; Tar, Moses; Rougeot, Catherine; Melman, Arnold

    2007-01-01

    OBJECTIVE To determine if the mature peptide product of the Vcsa1 gene, sialorphin, could restore erectile function in ageing rats, and whether these effects are mediated through relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue, as we recently reported that Vcsa1 is one of the most down-regulated genes in the corpora of rats in three distinct models of erectile dysfunction, and gene transfer of plasmids expressing Vcsa1 into the corpora of ageing rats restored erectile function. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sialorphin was injected intracorporeally into retired breeder rats, and the effect on the physiology of corporal tissue was analysed by intracorporal/blood pressure (ICP/BP) measurement at different times after injection. In organ-bath studies, the ability of sialorphin (1 μg/mL) to enhance C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue strips was investigated after pre-contraction with 1 μM phenylephrine. RESULTS Intracorporal injection of 100 μg sialorphin into retired breeder rats resulted in a time-dependent increase in the ICP/BP response to electrostimulation of the cavernosal nerve. After 55–65 min the ICP/BP ratio increased to ≈ 0.6, a value associated with normal erectile function. In organ-bath studies after pre-contraction with 1 μM phenylephrine, 1 μM CNP significantly (67%) increased the relaxation rate of corporal tissue. This rate of relaxation was increased by 2.5-fold after incubation with sialorphin (1 μg/mL) compared with carrier alone. CONCLUSION These results show that sialorphin has a role in erectile function, probably through a mechanism that involves relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue. PMID:17026587

  11. A randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled comparative clinical trial of arginine aspartate plus adenosine monophosphate for the intermittent treatment of male erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Neuzillet, Y; Hupertan, V; Cour, F; Botto, H; Lebret, T

    2013-03-01

    Efficacy and safety of l-arginine aspartate 8 g combined with 200 mg of adenosine monophosphate (AA) with placebo (PL) alone for intermittent treatment of mild-to-moderate erectile dysfunction (ED) were compared. The study design was a double-blind, PL-controlled, two-way crossover randomized clinical trial with 26 patients. Efficacy was assessed by International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and two additional validated questionnaires [the Erection Hardness Score (EHS) and the Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS). During each crossover period, separated by a 2-week wash-out period, drugs were administered orally, 1-2 h before sexual intercourse. Primary endpoint was a change in the IIEF. Secondary endpoints were patient and investigator assessments of treatment success. Investigators' and patients' assessment of efficacy was significantly improved by the combination vs. PL (p = 0.01 and p = 0.04 respectively]. EHS and EDITS questionnaires were both improved by the combination (p = 0.015 and p = 0.017 respectively). There was no significant difference in terms of tolerance between AA and PL or severe adverse events. ED patients demonstrated significant improvements in all IIEF domains with the exception of the Sexual Desire and Orgasmic Domains when treated with AA compared with PL. This pilot phase II study showed that the on-demand oral administration at a high dosage of l-arginine aspartate-adenosine monophosphate combination may be effective in patients with mild-to-moderate ED, is very well tolerated and could be tested as a safe first-line therapy in a larger size phase III study. © 2012 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

  12. Clinical and biopsychosocial determinants of sexual dysfunction in middle-aged and older Australian men.

    PubMed

    Martin, Sean; Atlantis, Evan; Wilson, David; Lange, Kylie; Haren, Matthew T; Taylor, Anne; Wittert, Gary

    2012-08-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) and other related sexual dysfunctions in men have recently been shown to associate with a range of conditions and biopsychosocial factors. However, few studies have been able to control for these related factors simultaneously. To determine the prevalence of and associated risk factors for ED and low solitary and dyadic sexual desire. Erectile function (International Index of Erectile Function-erectile function) and sexual desire (Sexual Desire Inventory 2), as well as associated sociodemographic, lifestyle, biological, and clinical risk factors. Data were collected from 1,195 randomly selected, community-dwelling men as part of the Florey Adelaide Male Ageing Study. The prevalence of ED, low solitary, and dyadic sexual desire was 17.7%, 67.7%, and 13.5%, respectively. Increasing age, abdominal fat mass, obstructive sleep apnea risk, and the absence of a regular partner were associated with both degrees of ED severity. Insufficient physical activity, low alcohol consumption, and hypertension were associated with mild ED only, and voiding lower urinary tract symptoms, diabetes, and lower plasma testosterone were independently associated with moderate to severe ED. Increasing age, lower alcohol consumption, insufficient physical activity, and a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, or insomnia were associated with both low dyadic and solitary sexual desire. Postschool qualifications and lower plasma testosterone were associated with low dyadic desire, whereas lower education and income, unemployment, and migration were associated with low solitary sexual desire. The absence of a regular partner and postschool qualifications were associated with higher solitary sexual desire. While ED and low dyadic and solitary sexual desire share some risk factors, we were able to demonstrate that unique factors exist for each of these domains. Attention should first be given to addressing these modifiable risk factors. © 2012 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  13. Erectile dysfunction is frequent in systemic sclerosis and associated with severe disease: a study of the EULAR Scleroderma Trial and Research group.

    PubMed

    Foocharoen, Chingching; Tyndall, Alan; Hachulla, Eric; Rosato, Edoardo; Allanore, Yannick; Farge-Bancel, Dominique; Caramaschi, Paola; Airó, Paolo; Nikolaevna, Starovojtova M; Pereira da Silva, José António; Stamenkovic, Bojana; Riemekasten, Gabriela; Rednic, Simona; Sibilia, Jean; Wiland, Piotr; Tarner, Ingo; Smith, Vanessa; Onken, Anna T; Abdel Atty Mohamed, Walid Ahmed; Distler, Oliver; Morović-Vergles, Jadranka; Himsel, Andrea; de la Peña Lefebvre, Paloma Garcia; Hügle, Thomas; Walker, Ulrich A

    2012-02-20

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common in men with systemic sclerosis (SSc) but the demographics, risk factors and treatment coverage for ED are not well known. This study was carried out prospectively in the multinational EULAR Scleroderma Trial and Research database by amending the electronic data-entry system with the International Index of Erectile Function-5 and items related to ED risk factors and treatment. Centres participating in this EULAR Scleroderma Trial and Research substudy were asked to recruit patients consecutively. Of the 130 men studied, only 23 (17.7%) had a normal International Index of Erectile Function-5 score. Thirty-eight per cent of all participants had severe ED (International Index of Erectile Function-5 score ≤ 7). Men with ED were significantly older than subjects without ED (54.8 years vs. 43.3 years, P < 0.001) and more frequently had simultaneous non-SSc-related risk factors such as alcohol consumption. In 82% of SSc patients, the onset of ED was after the manifestation of the first non-Raynaud's symptom (median delay 4.1 years). ED was associated with severe cutaneous, muscular or renal involvement of SSc, elevated pulmonary pressures and restrictive lung disease. ED was treated in only 27.8% of men. The most common treatment was sildenafil, whose efficacy is not established in ED of SSc patients. Severe ED is a common and early problem in men with SSc. Physicians should address modifiable risk factors actively. More research into the pathophysiology, longitudinal development, treatment and psychosocial impact of ED is needed.

  14. Erectile dysfunction post-radical prostatectomy – a challenge for both patient and physician

    PubMed Central

    Bratu, O; Oprea, I; Marcu, D; Spinu, D; Niculae, A; Geavlete, B; Mischianu, D

    2017-01-01

    Post-radical prostatectomy erectile dysfunction (post RP ED) is a major postoperative complication with a great impact on the quality of life of the patients. Until present, no proper algorithm or guideline based on the clinical trials has been established for the management of post RP ED. According to literature, it is better to initiate a penile rehabilitation program as soon as possible after surgery than doing nothing, in order to prevent and limit the postoperative local hypoxygenation and fibrosis. The results of numerous clinical trials regarding the effectiveness of the phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors therapy on post RP ED have made them the gold standard treatment. Encouraging results have been achieved in studies with vacuum erectile devices, intraurethral suppositories with alprostadil and intracavernosal injections, but due to their side effects, especially in the cases of intracavernosal injections and intraurethral suppositories, their clinical use was limited therefore making them a second line option for the post RP ED treatment. What should not be forgotten is that penile implant prosthesis has proven very effective, numerous studies confirming high rates of satisfaction for both patients and partners. PMID:28255370

  15. Review of the pathophysiological aspects involved in urological disease associated with metabolic syndrome.

    PubMed

    Sáenz Medina, J; Carballido Rodríguez, J

    2016-06-01

    Metabolic syndrome is a constellation of disorders that includes insulin resistance, central obesity, arterial hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. These disorders can have implications for the genitourinary apparatus. To conduct a review on the pathophysiological aspects that explain the relationship between metabolic syndrome and sexual dysfunction, lower urinary tract syndrome, prostate cancer and stone disease. We performed a qualitative, narrative literature review through a literature search on PubMed of articles published between 1997 and 2015, using the terms pathophysiology, metabolic syndrome, endothelial dysfunction, lipotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, kidney stones, hypogonadism, erectile dysfunction, lower urinary tract syndrome and prostate cancer. Metabolic syndrome constitutes an established complex of symptoms, defined as the presence of insulin resistance, central obesity, hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. Endothelial dysfunction secondary to lipotoxicity generates an inflammatory state, which involves renal cell metabolism, vascularisation of the pelvis and androgen production. These facts explain the relationship between metabolic syndrome, nephrolithiasis, lower urinary tract syndrome, hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction in men. Strategies such as proper diet, regular exercise, insulin treatment, testosterone-replacement therapy, therapy with antioxidants and free-radical inhibitors and urological treatments classically used for lower urinary tract syndrome have shown promising results in this syndrome. Copyright © 2015 AEU. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  16. Measurement of endothelial dysfunction via peripheral arterial tonometry predicts vasculogenic erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Kovac, Jason R.; Gomez, Lissette; Smith, Ryan P.; Coward, Robert M.; Gonzales, Marshall A.; Khera, Mohit; Lamb, Dolores J.; Lipshultz, Larry I.

    2014-01-01

    Introduction Endothelial cell dysfunction is associated with cardiovascular disease and vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (ED). Measured via Peripheral Artery Tonometry (PAT), endothelial dysfunction in the penis is an independent predictor of future cardiovascular events. Aim Determine whether measurement of endothelial dysfunction differentiates men with vasculogenic ED identified by duplex ultrasound from those without. Methods A total of 142 men were retrospectively assessed using patient history, penile duplex ultrasonography (US) and PAT (EndoPAT 2000). ED was self reported and identified on history. Vasculogenic ED was identified in men who exhibited a peak systolic velocity (PSV) of ≤25 cm/s obtained 15 minutes following vasodilator injection. The reactive hyperemia index (RHI), a measurement of endothelial dysfunction in medium/small arteries and the Augmentation Index (AI), a measurement of arterial stiffness, were recorded via PAT. Results Penile duplex US separated men into those with ED (n=111) and without (n=31). The cohort with ED had a PSV of 21±1 cm/s (left cavernous artery) and 22±1 cm/s (Right). The control group without ED had values of 39±2 cm/s (Left) and 39±2 (Right). Given the potential for altered endothelial function in diabetes mellitus, we confirmed that hemoglobin A1c, urinary microalbumin, and vibration pulse threshold were not different in men with vasculogenic ED and those without. RHI in patients with ED (1.85±0.06) was significantly decreased compared to controls (2.15±0.2) (p<0.05). The AI was unchanged when examined in isolation, and when standardized to heart rate. Conclusions Measurement of endothelial function with EndoPAT differentiates men with vasculogenic ED from those without. RHI could be used as a non-invasive surrogate in the assessment of vasculogenic ED and to identify those patients with higher cardiovascular risk. PMID:24784889

  17. Autonomic Neuropathy

    MedlinePlus

    ... achieving or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction) or ejaculation problems in men. In women, problems include vaginal dryness, low libido and difficulty reaching orgasm. Difficulty digesting food, such as feeling full after ...

  18. There Is No Correlation Between Erectile Dysfunction and Dose to Penile Bulb and Neurovascular Bundles Following Real-Time Low-Dose-Rate Prostate Brachytherapy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Solan, Amy N.; Cesaretti, Jamie A.; Stone, Nelson N.

    2009-04-01

    Purpose: We evaluated the relationship between the onset of erectile dysfunction and dose to the penile bulb and neurovascular bundles (NVBs) after real-time ultrasound-guided prostate brachytherapy. Methods and Materials: One hundred forty-seven patients who underwent prostate brachytherapy met the following eligibility criteria: (1) treatment with {sup 125}I brachytherapy to a prescribed dose of 160 Gy with or without hormones without supplemental external beam radiation therapy, (2) identification as potent before the time of implantation based on a score of 2 or higher on the physician-assigned Mount Sinai Erectile Function Score and a score of 16 or higher on the abbreviatedmore » International Index of Erectile Function patient assessment, and (3) minimum follow-up of 12 months. Median follow-up was 25.7 months (range, 12-47 months). Results: The 3-year actuarial rate of impotence was 23% (34 of 147 patients). An additional 43% of potent patients (49 of 113 patients) were using a potency aid at last follow-up. The penile bulb volume receiving 100% of the prescription dose (V{sub 100}) ranged from 0-0.05 cc (median, 0 cc), with a dose to the hottest 5% (D{sub 5}) range of 12.5-97.9 Gy (median, 40.8 Gy). There was no correlation between penile bulb D{sub 5} or V{sub 100} and postimplantation impotency on actuarial analysis. For the combined right and left NVB structures, V{sub 100} range was 0.3-5.1 cc (median, 1.8 cc), and V{sub 150} range was 0-1.5 cc (median, 0.31 cc). There was no association between NVB V{sub 100} or V{sub 150} and postimplantation impotency on actuarial analysis. Conclusion: Penile bulb doses are low after real-time ultrasound-guided prostate brachytherapy. We found no correlation between dose to either the penile bulb or NVBs and the development of postimplantation impotency.« less

  19. Can thromboembolic risk be associated with erectile dysfunction in atrial fibrillation patients?

    PubMed

    Szymański, Filip M; Filipiak, Krzysztof J; Płatek, Anna E; Kotkowski, Marcin; Opolski, Grzegorz

    2015-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is highly prevalent in patients with diseases of cardiovascular system, including patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Reasons for this high co-prevalence include endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative and emotional stress associated with AF. Association of AF-induced prothrombotic state and possible microthrombi in penile arteries with ED remains unclear. The present study aims to assess if probability of AF-associated risk of peripheral thromboembolism may be associated with ED in AF patients. Probability of thromboembolic complications was assessed with two commonly used risk scores CHADS₂ and CHA2DS₂-VASc in a group of continuous AF patients. All patients were also asked to fill an IIEF-5 questionnaire designed for screening for ED. Mean CHADS₂ score in the whole study group was 1.1 ± 1.0 points and CHA₂DS₂- -VASc was 1.5 ± 1.4 points. ED was present in 57.4% of the 129-person study population. In patients with ED, both CHADS₂ (0.9 ± 1.0 vs. 1.3 ± 1.1; p = 0.03) and CHA₂DS₂-VASc (1.2 ± 1.1 vs. 1.8 ± 1.5; p = 0.03) scores were significantly higher than in the group without dysfunction. After dividing the patients according to age into groups younger than 65 years vs. ≥ 65 years, observed correlation was no longer significant in the younger group (p > 0.05). In patients ≥ 65 years, in whom the risk scores are routinely used, dysfunction both CHADS₂ (1.1 ± 0.9 vs. 2.0 ± 0.9; p = 0.02) and CHA₂DS₂-VASc (2.3 ± 1.1 vs. 3.4 ± 1.3; p = 0.04) scores were higher in the group with ED. Erectile dysfunctions in AF patients are associated with elevated cardioembolic risk. We postulate that the diagnosis of ED should be considered an additional marker of prothrombotic state, and may be useful in clinical decision-making, especially in patients ≥ 65 years old.

  20. The effect of statins on erectile dysfunction: a meta-analysis of randomized trials.

    PubMed

    Kostis, John B; Dobrzynski, Jeanne M

    2014-07-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common in older men, especially those with comorbidities such as diabetes and atherosclerotic disease, conditions where statins are frequently prescribed. To examine the effect of statin therapy on ED using the five-item version of the International Inventory of Erectile Function (IIEF). We performed a random-effects meta-analysis of studies identified by a systematic search of MEDLINE, Web of Knowledge, the Cochrane Database, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Examination of the 186 retrieved citations resulted in the selection of 11 randomized trials for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Change in the IIEF score. IIEF increased by 3.4 points (95% CI 1.7-5.0, P = 0.0001) with statins compared to control. This effect remained statistically significant after multiple sensitivity analyses, including analysis for publication bias, a cumulative meta-analysis, and 11 repeated analyses with each study omitted sequentially. The increase in IIEF with statins was approximately one-third to one-half of that previously reported with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors and larger than the effect of lifestyle modification. Metaregression showed an increase in benefit with decreasing lipophilicity. The average age of participants and the degree of LDL cholesterol lowering did not alter the effect on IIEF. Statins cause a clinically relevant improvement of erectile function as measured by the five-item version of the IIEF. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  1. Penile fracture: surgical repair and late effects on erectile function.

    PubMed

    Ateyah, Ahmed; Mostafa, Taymour; Nasser, Taha Abdel; Shaeer, Osama; Hadi, Ahmed Abdel; Al-Gabbar, Mohammed Abd

    2008-06-01

    Penile fracture is described as a traumatic rupture of the tunica albuginea because of blunt injury of an erect penis. To assess the etiology, treatment maneuvers, and late effects of penile fractures treated by surgical repair. Thirty-three patients diagnosed provisionally as having fractured penises. Thirty patients were managed by immediate surgical repair and three by delayed repair. International Index of Erectile Function-5 for married cases and Single-question Self-report of Erectile Dysfunction questionnaires and recording complications after 2, 3, and 6 months. The most common cause of fracture penis is self-inflicted acute bending (54.5%). The tear was visualized by ultrasound in 20/30 patients (66.7%) mostly on the right proximal third of the penis. All tears were unilateral with mean length 2.0 +/- 0.9 cm (range 0.5-4 cm). All patients who completed their follow-up after 6 months (N = 24) were able to achieve an adequate erection except two married cases who felt mild erectile dysfunction. Penile nodules were the most common postoperative complication (41.7%) after 6 months' follow-up. Patients treated with immediate or delayed repair had comparable complications. Fracture penis is not uncommon as an emergency that must be repaired either immediately or delayed. Clinical diagnosis is more predictive than ultrasound in diagnosis and determining the site of the tear. Ultrasound may be of value in patients where there is clinical doubt.

  2. Dietary supplementation of tiger nut alters biochemical parameters relevant to erectile function in l-NAME treated rats.

    PubMed

    Olabiyi, Ayodeji A; Carvalho, Fabiano B; Bottari, Nathieli B; Lopes, Thauan F; da Costa, Pauline; Stefanelo, Naiara; Morsch, Vera M; Akindahunsi, Afolabi A; Oboh, Ganiyu; Schetinger, Maria Rosa

    2018-07-01

    Tiger nut tubers have been reportedly used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in folk medicine without scientific basis. Hence, this study evaluated the effect of tiger nut on erectile dysfunction by assessing biochemical parameters relevant to ED in male rats by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (l-NAME) treatment. Rats were divided into five groups (n = 10) each: Control group; l-NAME plus basal diet; l-NAME plus Sildenafil citrate; diet supplemented processed tiger nut (20%) plus l-NAME;diet supplemented raw tiger nut (20%) plus l-NAME. l-NAME pre-treatment (40 mg/kg/day) lasted for 14 days. Arginase, acetycholinesterase (AChE) and adenosine deaminase (ADA) activities as well as nitric oxide levels (NO) in serum, brain and penile tissue were measured. l-NAME increased the activity of arginase, AChE and ADA and reduced NO levels. However, dietary supplementation with tiger nut caused a reduction on the activities of the above enzymes and up regulated nitric oxide levels when compared to the control group. The effect of tiger nut supplemented diet may be said to prevent alterations of the activities of the enzymes relevant in erectile function. Quercetin was revealed to be the most active component of tiger nut tuber by HPLC finger printing. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  3. Effects of Nonlinear Aerobic Training on Erectile Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Function Following Radical Prostatectomy for Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Jones, Lee W.; Hornsby, Whitney E.; Freedland, Stephen J.; Lane, Amy; West, Miranda J.; Moul, Judd W.; Ferrandino, Michael N.; Allen, Jason D.; Kenjale, Aarti A.; Thomas, Samantha M.; Herndon, James E.; Koontz, Bridget F.; Chan, June M.; Khouri, Michel G.; Douglas, Pamela S.; Eves, Neil D.

    2014-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a major adverse effect of radical prostatectomy (RP). We conducted a randomized controlled trial to examine the efficacy of aerobic training (AT) compared with usual care (UC) on ED prevalence in 50 men (n = 25 per group) after RP. AT consisted of five walking sessions per week at 55– 100% of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) for 30–60 min per session following a nonlinear prescription. The primary outcome was change in the prevalence of ED, as measured by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), from baseline to 6 mo. Secondary outcomes were brachial artery flow–mediated dilation (FMD), VO2peak, cardiovascular (CV) risk profile (eg, lipid profile, body composition), and patient-reported outcomes (PROs). The prevalence of ED (IIEF score ≤21) decreased by 20% in the AT group and by 24% in the UC group (difference: p = 0.406). There were no significant between-group differences in any erectile function subscale (p > 0.05). Significant between-group differences were observed for changes in FMD and VO2peak, favoring AT. There were no group differences in other markers of CV risk profile or PROs. In summary, nonlinear AT does not improve ED in men with localized prostate cancer in the acute period following RP. PMID:24315706

  4. Erectile dysfunction and central obesity: an Italian perspective

    PubMed Central

    Corona, Giovanni; Rastrelli, Giulia; Filippi, Sandra; Vignozzi, Linda; Mannucci, Edoardo; Maggi, Mario

    2014-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a frequent complication of obesity. The aim of this review is to critically analyze the framework of obesity and ED, dissecting the connections between the two pathological entities. Current clinical evidence shows that obesity, and in particular central obesity, is associated with both arteriogenic ED and reduced testosterone (T) levels. It is conceivable that obesity-associated hypogonadism and increased cardiovascular risk might partially justify the higher prevalence of ED in overweight and obese individuals. Conversely, the psychological disturbances related to obesity do not seem to play a major role in the pathogenesis of obesity-related ED. However, both clinical and preclinical data show that the association between ED and visceral fat accumulation is independent from known obesity-associated comorbidities. Therefore, how visceral fat could impair penile microcirculation still remains unknown. This point is particularly relevant since central obesity in ED subjects categorizes individuals at high cardiovascular risk, especially in the youngest ones. The presence of ED in obese subjects might help healthcare professionals in convincing them to initiate a virtuous cycle, where the correction of sexual dysfunction will be the reward for improved lifestyle behavior. Unsatisfying sexual activity represents a meaningful, straightforward motivation for consulting healthcare professionals, who, in turn, should take advantage of the opportunity to encourage obese patients to treat, besides ED, the underlying unfavorable conditions, thus not only restoring erectile function, but also overall health. PMID:24713832

  5. The vascular and neurogenic factors associated with erectile dysfunction in patients after pelvic fractures

    PubMed Central

    Guan, Yong; Wendong, Sun; Zhao, Shengtian; Liu, Tongyan; Liu, Yuqiang; Zhang, Xiulin; Yuan, Mingzhen

    2015-01-01

    ABSTRACT Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication of pelvic fractures. To identify the vascular and neurogenic factors associated with ED, 120 patients admitted with ED after traumatic pelvic fracture between January 2009 and June 2013 were enrolled in this study. All patients answered the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire. Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) testing confirmed the occurrence of ED in 96 (80%) patients on whom penile duplex ultrasound and neurophysiological testing were further performed. Of these ED patients 29 (30%) were demonstrated only with vascular abnormality, 41 (42.7%) were detected only with neural abnormality, 26 (27.1%) revealed mixed abnormalities. Of the 55 patients (29+26) with vascular problems, 7 patients (12.7%) with abnormal arterial response to intracavernous injection of Bimix (15mg papaverine and 1mg phentolamine), 31 (56.4%) with corporal veno-occlusive dysfunction and 17 (30.9%) had both problems. Of the 67 (41+26) patients with abnormal neurophysiological outcomes, 51 (76.1%) with abnormal bulbocavernosus reflex (BCR), 20 (29.9%) with pathological pudendal nerve evoked potentials (PDEPs) and 25 (37.3%) with abnormal posterior tibial somatosensory nerve evoked potentials (PTSSEPs). Our observation indicated that neurogenic factors are important for the generation of ED in patients with pelvic fracture; venous impotence is more common than arteriogenic ED. PMID:26689522

  6. Association Between Periodontal Disease and Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review.

    PubMed

    Kellesarian, Sergio Varela; Kellesarian, Tammy Varela; Ros Malignaggi, Vanessa; Al-Askar, Mansour; Ghanem, Alexis; Malmstrom, Hans; Javed, Fawad

    2018-03-01

    A limited number of studies have reported an association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and chronic periodontitis (CP). The aim of the present study is to assess the association between CP and ED through a systematic review of published literature. To address the focused question, "Is there a relationship between ED and CP?" indexed databases were searched till December 2015 using various key words "erectile dysfunction," "periodontal disease," "periodontitis," "dental infection," and "impotence." Letters to the editor, commentaries, historic reviews, and experimental studies were excluded. The pattern of the present systematic review was customized to primarily summarize the pertinent data. Nine studies were included. Seven studies had a cross-sectional design and two studies were randomized control trials. The number of study participants ranged between 53 and 513,258 individuals with age ranging between 20 years and 85 years (median age ranging between 34.9 ± 4.9 years and 50.9 ± 16.6 years). In all studies, a positive relationship between CP and ED was reported. In four studies, odds ratio were reported, ranging between 1.53 and 3.35. From the literature reviewed, there seems to be a positive association between ED and CP; however, further well-designed controlled clinical trials are needed in this regard. It is emphasized that physicians should refer patients with ED to oral health care providers for a comprehensive oral evaluation and treatment.

  7. Impact on the Quality of Erections after Completing a Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment Cycle on a Group of 710 Patients.

    PubMed

    Ayala, Héctor A Corredor; Cuartas, José Pablo Saffon; Cleves, Diana Cerquera

    2017-01-01

    The aim of this study is to evaluate the response to low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy in a group of patients with organic vascular erectile dysfunction. This is an observational retrospective study. The researchers reviewed 710 patients with a clinical diagnosis of organic vascular erectile dysfunction (ED) of more than 3-month duration from male sexual health clinics of the Boston Medical Group from 12 cities in Spain and 4 in Mexico. Patients received 5 outpatient shock wave therapy sessions. They were evaluated with the erection hardness score (EHS) before the first session ( n  = 710), at the end of the last session ( n  = 710), and one month after the last session ( n  = 412). In the first examination, the EHS improved in 43.1% (306/710) of subjects compared to the baseline measurement and ability to penetrate increased from 26.8% to 44% ( p < 0.0001). In the second examination, the ability to penetrate was 37.9%, lower than in the first ( p =0.042) but higher than the baseline ( p =0.0001). The results suggest that the shock wave therapy with or without concomitant treatments improved the quality of erections in patients with erectile dysfunction treated in specialised male sexual health clinics. This trial is registered with NCT03237143.

  8. Erectile dysfunction and central obesity: an Italian perspective.

    PubMed

    Corona, Giovanni; Rastrelli, Giulia; Filippi, Sandra; Vignozzi, Linda; Mannucci, Edoardo; Maggi, Mario

    2014-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a frequent complication of obesity. The aim of this review is to critically analyze the framework of obesity and ED, dissecting the connections between the two pathological entities. Current clinical evidence shows that obesity, and in particular central obesity, is associated with both arteriogenic ED and reduced testosterone (T) levels. It is conceivable that obesity-associated hypogonadism and increased cardiovascular risk might partially justify the higher prevalence of ED in overweight and obese individuals. Conversely, the psychological disturbances related to obesity do not seem to play a major role in the pathogenesis of obesity-related ED. However, both clinical and preclinical data show that the association between ED and visceral fat accumulation is independent from known obesity-associated comorbidities. Therefore, how visceral fat could impair penile microcirculation still remains unknown. This point is particularly relevant since central obesity in ED subjects categorizes individuals at high cardiovascular risk, especially in the youngest ones. The presence of ED in obese subjects might help healthcare professionals in convincing them to initiate a virtuous cycle, where the correction of sexual dysfunction will be the reward for improved lifestyle behavior. Unsatisfying sexual activity represents a meaningful, straightforward motivation for consulting healthcare professionals, who, in turn, should take advantage of the opportunity to encourage obese patients to treat, besides ED, the underlying unfavorable conditions, thus not only restoring erectile function, but also overall health.

  9. Recruiting endogenous stem cells: a novel therapeutic approach for erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Xin, Zhong-Cheng; Xu, Yong-De; Lin, Guiting; Lue, Tom F; Guo, Ying-Lu

    2016-01-01

    Transplanted stem cells (SCs), owing to their regenerative capacity, represent one of the most promising methods to restore erectile dysfunction (ED). However, insufficient source, invasive procedures, ethical and regulatory issues hamper their use in clinical applications. The endogenous SCs/progenitor cells resident in organ and tissues play critical roles for organogenesis during development and for tissue homeostasis in adulthood. Even without any therapeutic intervention, human body has a robust self-healing capability to repair the damaged tissues or organs. Therefore, SCs-for-ED therapy should not be limited to a supply-side approach. The resident endogenous SCs existing in patients could also be a potential target for ED therapy. The aim of this review was to summarize contemporary evidence regarding: (1) SC niche and SC biological features in vitro; (2) localization and mobilization of endogenous SCs; (3) existing evidence of penile endogenous SCs and their possible mode of mobilization. We performed a search on PubMed for articles related to these aspects in a wide range of basic studies. Together, numerous evidences hold the promise that endogenous SCs would be a novel therapeutic approach for the therapy of ED. PMID:25926601

  10. Pudendal Nerve and Internal Pudendal Artery Damage May Contribute to Radiation-Induced Erectile Dysfunction

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Nolan, Michael W., E-mail: mwnolan@ncsu.edu; Department of Environmental and Radiologic Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado; Marolf, Angela J.

    Purpose/Objectives: Erectile dysfunction is common after radiation therapy for prostate cancer; yet, the etiopathology of radiation-induced erectile dysfunction (RI-ED) remains poorly understood. A novel animal model was developed to study RI-ED, wherein stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) was used to irradiate the prostate, neurovascular bundles (NVB), and penile bulb (PB) of dogs. The purpose was to describe vascular and neurogenic injuries after the irradiation of only the NVB or the PB, and after irradiation of all 3 sites (prostate, NVB, and PB) with varying doses of radiation. Methods and Materials: Dogs were treated with 50, 40, or 30 Gy to themore » prostate, NVB, and PB, or 50 Gy to either the NVB or the PB, by 5-fraction SBRT. Electrophysiologic studies of the pudendal nerve and bulbospongiosus muscles and ultrasound studies of pelvic perfusion were performed before and after SBRT. The results of these bioassays were correlated with histopathologic changes. Results: SBRT caused slowing of the systolic rise time, which corresponded to decreased arterial patency. Alterations in the response of the internal pudendal artery to vasoactive drugs were observed, wherein SBRT caused a paradoxical response to papaverine, slowing the systolic rise time after 40 and 50 Gy; these changes appeared to have some dose dependency. The neurofilament content of penile nerves was also decreased at high doses and was more profound when the PB was irradiated than when the NVB was irradiated. These findings are coincident with slowing of motor nerve conduction velocities in the pudendal nerve after SBRT. Conclusions: This is the first report in which prostatic irradiation was shown to cause morphologic arterial damage that was coincident with altered internal pudendal arterial tone, and in which decreased motor function in the pudendal nerve was attributed to axonal degeneration and loss. Further investigation of the role played by damage to these structures in RI-ED is warranted.« less

  11. ORAL BISPHENOL A (BPA) GIVEN TO RATS AT MODERATE DOSES IS ASSOCIATED WITH ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION, CAVERNOSAL LIPOFIBROSIS, AND ALTERATIONS OF GLOBAL GENE TRANSCRIPTION

    PubMed Central

    Kovanecz, I; Gelfand, R; Masouminia, M; Gharib, S; Segura, D; Vernet, D; Rajfer, J; Li, DK; Kannan, K; Gonzalez-Cadavid, NF

    2013-01-01

    Introduction Bisphenol A (BPA), a suspected reproductive biohazard and endocrine disruptor released from plastics is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED) in occupationally exposed workers. However, in rats, despite the induction of hypogonadism, apoptosis of the penile corporal smooth muscle, fat infiltration into the cavernosal tissue, and changes in global gene expression with the intraperitoneal administration of high dose BPA, ED was not observed. Aims We investigated whether BPA administered orally rather than intraperitoneally to rats for longer periods and lower doses will lead to ED. Main Outcomes Measures ED, histological, and biochemical markers in rat penile tissues. Methods 2.5-month old rats were given drinking water daily without and with BPA at 1 and 0.1 mg/kg/day. Two months later, erectile function was determined by cavernosometry (DIC) and electrical field stimulation (EFS) and serum levels of testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), and BPA were measured. Penile tissue sections were assayed by Masson (smooth muscle (SM)/collagen), Oil Red O (fat), TUNEL (apoptosis), immunohistochemistry for Oct 4 (stem cells), and α-SM actin/ calponin (SM and myofibroblasts), applying quantitative image analysis. Other markers were assayed by western blots. DNA microarrays/microRNA assays defined transcription profiles. Results Orally administered BPA did not affect body weight, but: 1) decreased serum T and E2; 2) reduced the EFS response and increased the DIC drop rate; 3) increased within the corporal tissue the presence of fat, myofibroblasts and apoptosis; 4) lowered the contents of SM and stem cells, but not nerve terminals; and 5) caused alterations of the transcriptional profiles for both mRNA and microRNAs within the penile shaft. Conclusions Long-term exposure of rats to oral BPA,caused a moderate corporal veno-occlusive dysfunction (CVOD), possibly due to alterations within the corporal tissue that pose gene transcriptional changes related to inflammation, fibrosis and epithelial/ mesenchymal transition (EMT). PMID:24305612

  12. Sexual Functioning and Behavior of Men with Body Dysmorphic Disorder Concerning Penis Size Compared with Men Anxious about Penis Size and with Controls: A Cohort Study

    PubMed Central

    Veale, David; Miles, Sarah; Read, Julie; Troglia, Andrea; Wylie, Kevan; Muir, Gordon

    2015-01-01

    Introduction Little is known about the sexual functioning and behavior of men anxious about the size of their penis and the means that they might use to try to alter the size of their penis. Aim To compare sexual functioning and behavior in men with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) concerning penis size and in men with small penis anxiety (SPA without BDD) and in a control group of men who do not have any concerns. Methods An opportunistic sample of 90 men from the community were recruited and divided into three groups: BDD (n = 26); SPA (n = 31) and controls (n = 33). Main Outcome Measures The Index of Erectile Function (IEF), sexual identity and history; and interventions to alter the size of their penis. Results Men with BDD compared with controls had reduced erectile dysfunction, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction and overall satisfaction on the IEF. Men with SPA compared with controls had reduced intercourse satisfaction. There were no differences in sexual desire, the frequency of intercourse or masturbation across any of the three groups. Men with BDD and SPA were more likely than the controls to attempt to alter the shape or size of their penis (for example jelqing, vacuum pumps or stretching devices) with poor reported success. Conclusion Men with BDD are more likely to have erectile dysfunction and less satisfaction with intercourse than controls but maintain their libido. Further research is required to develop and evaluate a psychological intervention for such men with adequate outcome measures. PMID:26468378

  13. Can the Mean Platelet Volume Be a Risk Factor for Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction?

    PubMed Central

    Yeni, Ercan; Demir, Mehmet; Yagmur, Ismail; Gümüş, Kemal; Celik, Hakim; Savas, Murat; Gulum, Mehmet

    2013-01-01

    Purpose The mean platelet volume (MPV) is a marker of the platelet activity and is reported to increase in vascular diseases. We aimed to investigate the association between MPV and vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (ED). Materials and Methods MPV and platelet (PLT) levels were measured in 50 cases of ED and 40 healthy controls. The diagnosis of vasculogenic ED was based on a detailed sexual history, physical examination, laboratory assessment, and color Doppler ultrasonography. The results are given as mean±standard deviation of the mean. Results The mean ages of the patient and the control groups were 53.70±12.39 years (range 24~77 years) and 53.85±9.5 years (range 30~73 years), respectively (p=0.947). The MPV and PLT values were significantly higher in the patients with ED than those of the controls (7.49±1.4), (6.85±1.2), (262.97±68), (252.89±82) respectively, p<0.001). However, the MPV values were not statistically significantly different in the patients with severe ED according to the International Index of Erectile Function than in those with mild ED, p>0.05), and there was no correlation between MPV and either age of patients (p=0.905) or duration of ED (p=0.583). Conclusions The platelet count and MPV was detected to be increased in patients with vasculogenic ED. This finding suggests a role for platelets in the pathogenesis of vascular complications and that the MPV would be useful in monitoring disease progression. PMID:24459654

  14. Risk Factors for Sexual Dysfunction Among Women and Men: A Consensus Statement From the Fourth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine 2015.

    PubMed

    McCabe, Marita P; Sharlip, Ira D; Lewis, Ron; Atalla, Elham; Balon, Richard; Fisher, Alessandra D; Laumann, Edward; Lee, Sun Won; Segraves, Robert T

    2016-02-01

    This article presents a review of previous research concerning risk factors for sexual dysfunction in women and men. The aim is to evaluate past research studies to determine the contribution of all risk factors to the development and maintenance of sexual dysfunction among women and men. Studies were organized under a biopsychosocial framework, with the bulk of studies of women and men having investigated the role of biological factors. The outcome measures were the data on factors for sexual dysfunction. Many more studies investigated risk factors for sexual dysfunction in men than in women. For women and men, diabetes, heart disease, urinary tract disorders, and chronic illness were significant risk factors for sexual dysfunction. Depression and anxiety and the medications used to treat these disorders also were risk factors for sexual dysfunction in women and men. In addition, substance abuse was associated with sexual dysfunction. Many other social and cultural factors were related to sexual dysfunction in women and men. Psychosocial factors are clearly risk factors for sexual dysfunction. Women and men with sexual dysfunction should be offered psychosocial evaluation and treatment, if available, in addition to medical evaluation and treatment. The impact of social and cultural factors on sexual function requires substantially more research. The evidence that erectile dysfunction is a harbinger of other forms of cardiovascular disease is strong enough to recommend that clinical evaluation for occult cardiovascular disease should be undertaken in men who do not have known cardiovascular disease but who develop organic erectile dysfunction, especially in men younger than 70 years. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Erectile Dysfunction

    MedlinePlus

    ... Us The Story of PCF A Legacy of Leadership About the Prostate Cancer Foundation CEO Message Why ... PCF? Support our Partners Annual Report & Financials Our Leadership Leadership Team Board Members Curing Together Patient Stories ...

  16. Erectile Dysfunction

    MedlinePlus

    ... Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) Urinary Diversion Urinary Retention Urine Blockage in Newborns Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR) The ... Coordinating Committees Strategic Plans & Reports Research Areas FAQs Jobs at NIDDK Visit Us Contact Us News News ...

  17. Drugs that may cause impotence

    MedlinePlus

    Impotence caused by medications; Drug-induced erectile dysfunction; Prescription medicines and impotence ... Many medicines and recreational drugs can affect a man's sexual arousal and sexual performance. What causes impotence in one ...

  18. Mirodenafil for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review of the Literature

    PubMed Central

    Park, Hyun Jun; Moon, Kyung Hyun; Lee, Seung Wook; Lee, Won Ki; Kam, Sung Chul; Lee, Jun Ho

    2014-01-01

    Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are the most commonly used treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Since the launch of sildenafil, several drugs-including mirodenafil, sildenafil citrate (sildenafil), tadalafil, vardenafil HCL (vardenafil), udenafil, and avanafil-have become available. Mirodenafil is a newly developed pyrrolopyrimidinone compound, which is a potent, reversible, and selective oral PDE5 inhibitor. Mirodenafil was launched in Korea in 2007, and an orally disintegrating film of mirodenafil was developed in 2011 for benefitting patients having difficulty in swallowing tablets. This study aimed to review the pharmacokinetic characteristic profile of mirodenafil and report evidence on its efficacy in the case of ED. In addition, we reviewed randomized controlled studies of mirodenafil's daily administration and efficacy for lower urinary tract symptoms. PMID:24872948

  19. Erectile dysfunction and the internet: drug company manipulation of public and professional opinion.

    PubMed

    Read, John; Mati, Elizabeth

    2013-01-01

    Given that the Internet is now a major source of information regarding health and mental health problems, and that it is in the interest of the pharmaceutical industry to influence public and professional opinion, this study evaluated 70 websites about erectile dysfunction. The 31 drug company-funded websites (44%) were, compared with the 39 websites that are not industry funded, significantly more biased toward biological factors in general, and toward medication in particular (p < .01). The high proportion of websites that are industry sponsored, and the bias of those websites, confirms previous studies on depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and demonstrates that drug companies are using their financial might to manipulate public and professional opinion on the Internet.

  20. Screening for erectile dysfunction in men with lifelong premature ejaculation--Is the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) reliable?

    PubMed

    McMahon, Chris G

    2009-02-01

    Some men with premature ejaculation (PE) and normal erectile function record contradictory response/s to The Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and may be incorrectly categorized as suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED). The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of false positive SHIM diagnosis of ED in men with lifelong PE. SHIM, stopwatch intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT). A prospective observational study of men with normal erectile function and lifelong PE, diagnosed using the ISSM definition of lifelong PE, was conducted. The SHIM was self-administered at Visit 1. Mean per subject stopwatch IELT was determined from four subsequent intercourse attempts. Seventy-eight subjects with a mean age of 33.2 +/- 8.3 years and a geometric mean IELT of 15.9 +/- 2.3 seconds were enrolled. The mean SHIM score for all subjects was 20.4 +/- 6.0. Fifty-two subjects (66.7%) have SHIM scores of >21 (mean 24.3 +/- 1.1), consistent with normal erectile function, and a geometric mean IELT of 18.3 +/- 2.2 seconds. Twenty-six subjects (33.3%) had SHIM scores <22 (mean 12.7 +/- 3.7), consistent with a false positive diagnosis of ED, and a geometric mean IELT of 10.5 +/- 2.3 seconds. The incidence of false positive SHIM diagnosis of ED (SHIM < 22) was inversely related to the IELT. Although the geometric mean IELT for subjects with SHIM scores <22 was significantly less than that of all subjects and subjects with SHIM scores >21, there were no significant differences between the geometric mean IELT or the IELT distribution of all subjects vs. the normal erectile function IELT (SHIM > 21) cohort. This study demonstrates a 33.3% false positive SHIM diagnosis of ED in men with PE. This is likely to limit subject recruitment in clinical trials by exclusion of subjects with low-range IELTs but is unlikely to result in significantly different baseline IELTs or IELT distributions.

  1. Prophylactic sildenafil citrate improves select aspects of sexual function in men treated with radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

    PubMed

    Zelefsky, Michael J; Shasha, Daniel; Branco, Rebekah Dunn; Kollmeier, Marisa; Baser, Raymond E; Pei, Xin; Ennis, Ronald; Stock, Richard; Bar-Chama, Natan; Mulhall, John P

    2014-09-01

    We studied adjuvant daily sildenafil citrate during and after radiotherapy for prostate cancer for erectile function preservation. We performed a randomized, prospective trial of 279 patients with localized prostate cancer treated with radiotherapy who received sildenafil citrate (50 mg daily) or placebo (2:1 randomization). Medication/placebo was initiated 3 days before treatment and continued daily for 6 months. Before therapy and 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months after radiotherapy patients completed the IIEF questionnaire, including the erectile function domain, the I-PSS questionnaire and the RAND SF-36®. All IIEF domains were scored. At 12 months erectile function scores were better for sildenafil citrate than placebo (p = 0.018), 73% of patients on sildenafil citrate vs 50% on placebo had mild/no erectile dysfunction (p = 0.024) and the sildenafil citrate arm had superior overall satisfaction (p = 0.027) and IIEF total scores (p = 0.043). At 24 months erectile function and IIEF scores were no longer significantly better for sildenafil citrate (p = 0.172 and 0.09, respectively) and yet overall satisfaction scores were higher (p = 0.033). Sexual desire scores in patients who received sildenafil citrate were higher at 24 months although they had completed drug therapy 18 months previously (p = 0.049). At 24 months 81.6% of patients on sildenafil citrate and 56.0% of those on placebo achieved functional erection with or without erectile dysfunction medication (p = 0.045). Daily sildenafil citrate during and after radiotherapy for prostate cancer was associated with improved overall sexual function compared with placebo for various sexual function domains. To our knowledge this is the largest randomized, prospective, controlled trial to show the usefulness of a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor as a rehabilitation strategy in patients with prostate cancer who received radiation therapy. Copyright © 2014 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Nanoparticles as a novel delivery vehicle for therapeutics targeting erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Han, George; Tar, Moses; Kuppam, Dwaraka S R; Friedman, Adam; Melman, Arnold; Friedman, Joel; Davies, Kelvin P

    2010-01-01

    Nanoparticles represent a potential novel mechanism for transdermal delivery of erectogenic agents directly to the penis. To determine if nanoparticles encapsulating known erectogenic agents (tadalafil, sialorphin, and nitric oxide [NO]) can improve erectile function in a rat model of erectile dysfunction (ED) as a result of aging (the Sprague-Dawley retired breeder rat). Nanoparticles encapsulating the erectogenic agents were applied as a gel to the glans and penile shaft of anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats and the intracorporal pressure/blood pressure (ICP/BP) monitored for up to 2 hours with or without stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Control nanoparticles were made without encapsulating erectogenic agents and applied in a similar manner in separate experiments. Nanoparticles encapsulating NO caused spontaneous visible erections in the rat, with an average time of onset of 4.5 minutes, duration of 1.42 minutes, and ICP/BP of 0.67 +/- 0.14. The sialorphin nanoparticles also caused visible spontaneous erections after an average of 4.5 minutes, with a duration of 8 minutes and ICP/BP ratio of 0.72 +/- 0.13. The difference in the erectile response between groups of animals treated with NO or sialorphin nanoparticles was significantly different from the control group treated with empty nanoparticles (P < 0.05) Tadalafil nanoparticles showed a significant increase in the mean ICP/BP (0.737 +/- 0.029) following stimulation of the cavernous nerve (4 mA) 1 hour after application of the nanoparticles with a visibly improved erectile response. Nanoparticles encapsulating three different erectogenic agents resulted in increased erectile function when applied to the penis of a rat model of ED. Nanoparticles represent a potential novel route for topical delivery of erectogenic agents which could improve the safety profile for existing orally administered drugs by avoiding effects of absorption and first-pass metabolism, and would be less hazardous than injection.

  3. Single center outcomes after reconstructive surgical correction of adult acquired buried penis: measurements of erectile function, depression, and quality of life.

    PubMed

    Rybak, James; Larsen, Stephen; Yu, Michelle; Levine, Laurence A

    2014-04-01

    Management of adult acquired buried penis is a troublesome situation for both patient and surgeon. The buried penis has been associated with significant erectile and voiding dysfunction, depression, and overall poor quality of life (QOL). To identify outcomes following reconstructive surgery with release of buried penis, escutcheonectomy, and circumcision with or without skin grafting. We retrospectively identified 11 patients treated by a single surgeon between 2007 and 2011, patient ages were 44-69; complete data review was available on all 11. Validated European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer 15 QOL, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) surveys assessed patient QOL, depression, and erectile function pre- and postoperatively. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 48.8 (42.4-64.6). Mean operative time was 191 minutes (139-272). Mean length of stay was 2.1 days. Ten of 11 patients required phallic skin grafting. There was one perioperative complication resulting in respiratory failure and overnight stay in the intensive care unit. Wound complications were seen in 2/11 patients, and 1 needed surgical debridement for superficial wound infection. Skin graft take was seen in 100% of the patients. Ninety-one percent of patients noted significant improvement in voiding postoperatively. Ninety-one percent of patients reported significant erectile dysfunction preoperatively. Subsequently, IIEF scores improved post surgery by an average of 7.7 points. Clinical depression was noted to be present in 7/11 patients preoperatively and 2/11 postoperatively based on CES-D surveys. QOL improved significantly in 10/11 compared with preoperative baseline; however, many patients noted significant difficulties based on their weight and other comorbidities. Management of adult acquired buried penis is a challenging, yet correctable problem. In our series it appears that by using established surgical techniques we were able to achieve significant improvements in erectile function, QOL, and measures of depression. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  4. Effects of Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy on Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

    PubMed

    Clavijo, Raul I; Kohn, Taylor P; Kohn, Jaden R; Ramasamy, Ranjith

    2017-01-01

    Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) has been proposed as an effective non-invasive treatment option for erectile dysfunction (ED). To use systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of Li-ESWT by comparing change in erectile function as assessed by the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) in men undergoing Li-ESWT vs sham therapy for the treatment of ED. Systematic search was conducted of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized controlled trials that were published in peer-reviewed journals or presented in abstract form of Li-ESWT used for the treatment of ED from January 2010 through March 2016. Randomized controlled trials were eligible for inclusion if they were published in the peer-reviewed literature and assessed erectile function outcomes using the IIEF-EF score. Estimates were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. Change in IIEF-EF score after treatment with Li-ESWT in patients treated with active treatment vs sham Li-ESWT probes. Data were extracted from seven trials involving 602 participants. The average age was 60.7 years and the average follow-up was 19.8 weeks. There was a statistically significant improvement in pooled change in IIEF-EF score from baseline to follow-up in men undergoing Li-ESWT vs those undergoing sham therapy (6.40 points; 95% CI = 1.78-11.02; I 2  = 98.7%; P < .0001 vs 1.65 points; 95% CI = 0.92-2.39; I 2  = 64.6%; P < .0001; between-group difference, P = .047). Significant between-group differences were found for total treatment shocks received by patients (P < .0001). In this meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials, treatment of ED with Li-ESWT resulted in a significant increase in IIEF-EF scores. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Does low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy have a physiological effect on erectile function? Short-term results of a randomized, double-blind, sham controlled study.

    PubMed

    Vardi, Yoram; Appel, Boaz; Kilchevsky, Amichai; Gruenwald, Ilan

    2012-05-01

    We investigated the clinical and physiological effect of low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy on men with organic erectile dysfunction who are phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor responders. After a 1-month phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor washout period, 67 men were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive 12 sessions of low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy or sham therapy. Erectile function and penile hemodynamics were assessed before the first treatment (visit 1) and 1 month after the final treatment (followup 1) using validated sexual function questionnaires and venoocclusive strain gauge plethysmography. Clinically we found a significantly greater increase in the International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function domain score from visit 1 to followup 1 in the treated group than in the sham treated group (mean ± SEM 6.7 ± 0.9 vs 3.0 ± 1.4, p = 0.0322). There were 19 men in the treated group who were initially unable to achieve erections hard enough for penetration (Erection Hardness Score 2 or less) who were able to achieve erections sufficiently firm for penetration (Erection Hardness Score 3 or greater) after low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy, compared to none in the sham group. Physiologically penile hemodynamics significantly improved in the treated group but not in the sham group (maximal post-ischemic penile blood flow 8.2 vs 0.1 ml per minute per dl, p <0.0001). None of the men experienced discomfort or reported any adverse effects from the treatment. This is the first randomized, double-blind, sham controlled study to our knowledge that shows that low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy has a positive short-term clinical and physiological effect on the erectile function of men who respond to oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor therapy. The feasibility and tolerability of this treatment, coupled with its potential rehabilitative characteristics, make it an attractive new therapeutic option for men with erectile dysfunction. Copyright © 2012 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors in clinical urology.

    PubMed

    Ückert, Stefan; Kuczyk, Markus A; Oelke, Matthias

    2013-05-01

    To date, benign diseases of the male and female lower urinary and genital tract, such as erectile dysfunction, bladder overactivity, lower urinary tract symptomatology secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia and symptoms of female sexual dysfunction (including arousal and orgasmic disorders), can be therapeutically approached by influencing the function of the smooth musculature of the respective tissues. The use of isoenzyme-selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors is considered a great opportunity to treat various diseases of the human urogenital tract. PDE inhibitors, in particular the PDE5 (cyclic GMP PDE) inhibitors avanafil, lodenafil, sildenafil, tadalafil, udenafil and vardenafil, are regarded as efficacious, having a fast onset of drug action and an improved effect-to-adverse event ratio, combining a high response rate with the advantage of an on-demand intake. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent as well as potential future indications, namely, erectile dysfunction, Peyronie's disease, overactive bladder, urinary stone disease, lower urinary tract symptomatology secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia and premature ejaculation, for the use of PDE inhibitors in clinical urology.

  7. Coping with losses, grief, and mourning in prostate cancer.

    PubMed

    Wittmann, Daniela

    2015-01-01

    Prostate cancer is a highly prevalent disease with a high likelihood of survival. If treated, survivors live with significant and lasting treatment-related side effects. Surgical treatment is associated with urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and radiation leads to urinary and bowel irritability as well as erectile dysfunction. Patients who undergo hormonal treatment cope with sexual dysfunction, bone density loss, hot flashes, mood symptoms, and cardiac and metabolic disorders. Functional losses have a significant impact on patients and their partners' quality of life and are associated with distress and psychosocial morbidity. Psychosocial treatment is largely unavailable in usual care, but has been shown to reduce distress, to increase positive reappraisal of the illness, and to contribute to the recovery of sexual intimacy. Treatment for grief and mourning, typical reactions to loss, has not been introduced into psychosocial interventions but is increasingly recognized as a path toward a 'new normal' after prostate cancer treatment. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  8. Low-Intensity Shock Wave Therapy and Its Application to Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Lei, Hongen; Liu, Jing; Li, Huixi; Wang, Lin; Xu, Yongde; Tian, Wenjie; Lin, Guiting

    2013-01-01

    Although phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is) are a revolution in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and have been marketed since 1998, they cannot restore pathological changes in the penis. Low-energy shock wave therapy (LESWT) has been developed for treating ED, and clinical studies have shown that LESWT has the potential to affect PDE5I non-responders with ED with few adverse effects. Animal studies have shown that LESWT significantly improves penile hemodynamics and restores pathological changes in the penis of diabetic ED animal models. Although the mechanisms remain to be investigated, recent studies have reported that LESWT could partially restore corpus cavernosum fibromuscular pathological changes, endothelial dysfunction, and peripheral neuropathy. LESWT could be a novel modality for treating ED, and particularly PDE5I non-responders with organic ED, in the near future. However, further extensive evidence-based basic and clinical studies are needed. This review intends to summarize the scientific background underlying the effect of LESWT on ED. PMID:24459653

  9. Low-intensity shock wave therapy and its application to erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Lei, Hongen; Liu, Jing; Li, Huixi; Wang, Lin; Xu, Yongde; Tian, Wenjie; Lin, Guiting; Xin, Zhongcheng

    2013-12-01

    Although phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is) are a revolution in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and have been marketed since 1998, they cannot restore pathological changes in the penis. Low-energy shock wave therapy (LESWT) has been developed for treating ED, and clinical studies have shown that LESWT has the potential to affect PDE5I non-responders with ED with few adverse effects. Animal studies have shown that LESWT significantly improves penile hemodynamics and restores pathological changes in the penis of diabetic ED animal models. Although the mechanisms remain to be investigated, recent studies have reported that LESWT could partially restore corpus cavernosum fibromuscular pathological changes, endothelial dysfunction, and peripheral neuropathy. LESWT could be a novel modality for treating ED, and particularly PDE5I non-responders with organic ED, in the near future. However, further extensive evidence-based basic and clinical studies are needed. This review intends to summarize the scientific background underlying the effect of LESWT on ED.

  10. The effect of physician and patient education when combined with vardenafil treatment in Canadian males with erectile dysfunction: an open-label, factorial-designed, cluster-randomized clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Brock, Gerald; Carrier, Serge; Alarie, Pierre; Pommerville, Peter; Casey, Richard; Harris, Stewart; Ward, Richard

    2008-03-01

    Studies evaluating the effect of education on treatment success with phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor therapy in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) are limited. Additional education of the primary care physician (PCP) and the patient are thought to optimize the treatment of ED. To assess the impact of education of the PCP or of the patient in the treatment of ED with vardenafil relative to usual care. In this 12-week, open-label, multicenter, factorial-designed, cluster-randomized Canadian study, 1,029 patients with ED were enrolled into four different education groups: usual care, patient education, PCP education, and both PCP and patient education. All groups started on vardenafil 10 mg, with the option to titrate at weeks 4 and 8. The primary efficacy measure was the difference at week 4 last observation carried forward (LOCF) in the overall improvement in erectile function (EF) as measured by the Global Assessment Question (GAQ), while on background vardenafil, between those receiving education vs. those who did not. Other secondary assessments included responses to diary questions regarding penetration (sexual encounter profile, SEP2) and erection maintenance (SEP3), and to questionnaires regarding treatment satisfaction (Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction [EDITS]). A total of 956 patients were included in the intent-to-treat population. Mean baseline International Index of Erectile Function-EF domain score was 13. GAQ response rates at week 4 LOCF were high (>80%) for all groups, regardless of the education given. Mean per patient SEP2 and SEP3 rates at week 12 LOCF were 86-89% and 79-83%, respectively. In an exploratory analysis, a positive relationship between GAQ responses and EDITS scores was observed (P < or = 0.0007). Vardenafil was generally well tolerated. In men with moderate ED, vardenafil led to high success rates and satisfaction regardless of the education given. The benefits of education for PCP and patients in Canada were possibly masked by a ceiling effect in this study population.

  11. Tadalafil once daily improves ejaculatory function, erectile function, and sexual satisfaction in men with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction: results from a randomized, placebo- and tamsulosin-controlled, 12-week double-blind study.

    PubMed

    Giuliano, François; Oelke, Matthias; Jungwirth, Andreas; Hatzimouratidis, Konstantinos; Watts, Steven; Cox, David; Viktrup, Lars

    2013-03-01

    Tadalafil, a long-acting phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, is approved for treating signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and erectile dysfunction (ED); tamsulosin, an alpha-blocker, is approved for treating signs and symptoms of BPH. To determine the effects of tadalafil or tamsulosin on sexual function, including ejaculation and orgasm, satisfaction, and erectile function, in sexually active men with ED and lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of BPH (LUTS/BPH). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of tadalafil 5 mg once daily for 12 weeks in men with LUTS/BPH; tamsulosin 0.4 mg once daily was an active control. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire was administered at baseline and 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Analysis of orgasm and ejaculation was post hoc based on the IIEF-Orgasmic Function (OF) domain (IIEF-Q9 [ejaculatory frequency] and Q10 [orgasmic frequency]). Other measures included IIEF-Intercourse Satisfaction (IS), Overall Satisfaction (OS), and Erectile Function (EF) domains. Changes from baseline to 12 weeks (or last observation) vs. placebo were analyzed using analysis of covariance. Higher IIEF scores indicate better functioning. Of 511 study participants, 310 (60.7%) had ED and were sexually active. The IIEF-OF increased significantly through 12 weeks with tadalafil vs. placebo (P = 0.048), as did IIEF-Q9 (P = 0.045) but not IIEF-Q10 (P = 0.100). Compared with placebo, IIEF-OF, Q9, and Q10 decreased significantly with tamsulosin (all P < 0.05). The IIEF-IS and OS increased significantly at end point with tadalafil (both P < 0.001); for tamsulosin, change was not significant for IS, while OS decreased significantly (P = 0.009). The IIEF-EF domain increased significantly vs. placebo with tadalafil (P < 0.001) but not tamsulosin (P = 0.699). Tadalafil 5 mg once daily significantly improved ejaculation and orgasm, intercourse and overall satisfaction, and erectile function. Men receiving tamsulosin 0.4 mg once daily experienced a decrease in both ejaculatory/orgasmic frequency and overall satisfaction vs. placebo, with no significant effect on erectile function. © 2013 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  12. Dual Strategy With Oral Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibition and Intracavernosal Implantation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Is Superior to Individual Approaches in the Recovery of Erectile and Cavernosal Functions After Cavernous Nerve Injury in Rats.

    PubMed

    Martínez-Salamanca, Juan I; Zurita, Mercedes; Costa, Carla; Martínez-Salamanca, Eduardo; Fernández, Argentina; Castela, Angela; Vaquero, Jesús; Carballido, Joaquín; Angulo, Javier

    2016-01-01

    Novel effective therapeutic strategies are necessary for treating erectile dysfunction secondary to cavernous nerve injury (CNI). To functionally evaluate the benefits of long-term oral treatment with a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor on the potential capacity of intracavernosal cell therapy to recover erectile function after CNI. Bilateral crush CNI (BCNI) was produced in anesthetized male rats. After BCNI, rats were treated with the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor tadalafil (TAD; 5 mg/kg/d orally; BCNI + TAD), a single intracavernosal injection of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs; BCNI + BMSC), or dual therapy (BCNI + BMSC + TAD). Ex vivo function of the corpus cavernosum (CC) and in vivo intracavernosal pressure responses to CN electrical stimulation were evaluated 4 weeks after BCNI. Trichrome staining and terminal 2'-deoxyuridine-5'-triphosphate nick-end labeling assay were used for fibrosis and apoptosis determination, respectively, in the CC. In vivo erectile responses in anesthetized rats, ex vivo evaluation of endothelium-dependent relaxation, neurogenic relaxation and neurogenic contraction in CC strips, and histologic evaluation of fibrosis and apoptosis in cavernosal tissue. BCNI resulted in a marked decrease of erectile responses that were partly recovered in the BCNI + TAD and BCNI + BMSC groups. Complete recovery of erectile function was achieved only in the BCNI + BMSC + TAD group. Endothelium-dependent and nitric oxide donor-induced relaxations of the CC were not altered by BCNI or the treatments. BCNI resulted in enhanced neurogenic adrenergic contractions and impaired nitrergic relaxations of the CC. The BCNI + TAD group displayed diminished neurogenic contractions, whereas the BCNI + TAD and BCNI + BMSC groups showed partly recovered nitrergic responses. In the BCNI + BMSC + TAD group, neurogenic contractions were decreased and nitrergic relaxations were normalized. Cavernosal apoptosis and fibrosis were similarly prevented in the BCNI + TAD, BCNI + BMSC, and BCNI + BMSC + TAD groups. A dual strategy combining the intracavernosal injection of BMSCs and oral administration of TAD was superior to individual approaches in normalizing neurogenic control of cavernosal tone and preserving erectile function after CNI, suggesting the potential of this dual strategy in the future management of erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Erection problems

    MedlinePlus

    ... controlled. Talk openly with your partner about your relationship and sex life. Seek counseling if you and your ... Accessed January 23, 2018. Burnett AL. Evaluation and management of erectile dysfunction. In: Wein AJ, Kavoussi LR, ...

  14. Erectile Dysfunction: Viagra and Other Oral Medications

    MedlinePlus

    ... of Privacy Practices Notice of Nondiscrimination Manage Cookies Advertising Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization and proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission. Mayo Clinic does not ...

  15. Impact of erectile function and age in men with lower urinary tract symptoms on ejaculatory dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

    PubMed

    Hwa, J S; Kam, S C; Choi, J H; Do, J M; Seo, D H; Hyun, J S

    2012-01-01

    Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) and ED are clearly correlated, but to date no correlation with ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD) has been identified. Therefore, this study evaluated the impact of erectile function in men with LUTS on EjD and premature ejaculation (PE). Erectile function, PE and EjD of 239 men (mean age, 53.0 ± 10.65 years), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), International Index of Erection Function (IIEF), intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) and the seven-item Male Sexual Health questionnaire (MSHQ)-EjD were used to compare with the degree of LUTS. Ages were divided into five groups (<40, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and >70 years). The IPSS categorized patients into three symptom groups: mild, 1-7; moderate, 8-19; and severe, >19. ED was classified into five categories based on IIEF-EF scores: severe (0-6), moderate (7-12), mild-to-moderate (13-18), mild (19-24) and normal (25-30). The correlations among age, IIEF-EF, IELT and the MSHQ-EjD domain were studied through regression and cross-tabulation analyses. The results revealed that aging significantly affected each item of the MSHQ-EjD (P<0.05). The IIEF-EF domain was also correlated with each question on the MSHQ-EjD (P<0.05). PE (IELT <1 min) increased in incidence as patients got older but was not linked to IIEF-EF (P>0.05). These results indicate that EjD is closely related to age and erectile function, and that PE is closely related to age, although PE is not related to erectile function.

  16. Multicenter pathophysiologic investigation of erectile dysfunction in clinic outpatients in China.

    PubMed

    Li, Dongjie; Jiang, Xianzhen; Zhang, Xiaobo; Yi, Lu; Zhu, Xiangsheng; Zeng, Xiangyang; Guo, Xiaoliang; Tang, Yuxin

    2012-03-01

    To assess the pathophysiologic composition and age structure of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men visiting outpatient clinics in China. We studied 3327 consecutive ED outpatients (median age 39 years) from 2006 to 2010 in the 5 training hospitals in China. Every patient was independently evaluated by an experienced urologist/andrologist using comprehensive diagnostic procedures. The simplified International Index of Erectile Function was used to assess the severity of ED. Most patients (95.0%) were <60 years old, and none were >70 years old. The psychogenic patients were younger and had greater percentage than any other patients. Vasculogenic factors were a major etiology of organic ED. A significant difference was found in the age distribution between the patients with psychogenic ED and those with organic ED (P = .000). Diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and hyperlipidemia played significant roles in affecting the severity of ED in a statistical model, including age. The International Index of Erectile Function scores decreased with age (rs = -0.199, P = .000). Moreover, the percentage of severe and moderate cases increased with age (P = .003 and P = .002, respectively). However, the constituent ratio of patients sharply declined from 30.3% to 4.5% with age. The number of men visiting outpatient clinics with psychological ED is greater than the number with organic causes in China. The age of the Chinese patients with ED who seek medical help is young and this is mainly because of inadequate sex education to young men and because most older patients are reluctant to visit the hospital just for the loss of erectile function. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Sildenafil improves erectile hardness in Chinese men with erectile dysfunction: a real-life study analyzed on age stratification.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Kai; Xu, Ben; Liu, Defeng; Wang, Xiaofeng; Zhu, Jichuan; Deng, Chunhua; Jin, Jie; Jiang, Hui

    2014-04-01

    To evaluate the clinical efficacy of sildenafil for the improvement of penile erection hardness in erectile dysfunction (ED) patients and to determine the relationship between this improvement in erection hardness and social and psychological functioning. From 2007 to 2008, a total of 4507 men diagnosed with ED were enrolled from 46 centers in China; 4039 of these patients were treated with sildenafil and asked to complete the Erectile Function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function, Erection Hardness Score, and Quality of Erection Questionnaire. The patients were divided into 5 groups on the basis of their age (group A: 20-30 years; group B: 31-40 years; group C: 41-50 years; group D: 51-60 years; and group E: >60 years). A total of 3837 (95.0%) patients completed the entire study. After sildenafil treatment, the vast majority (96.3%) of the men were able to achieve grade 3-4 erection hardness. Patients with a better baseline erection hardness were more able to achieve grade 4 hardness after treatment (P <.001). Comparisons of the Erection Hardness Score improvement before and after treatment between the age-categorized groups also showed that the erection hardness improvement was much greater in men older than 50 years. Sildenafil can help the vast majority of Chinese ED patients achieve grade 3-4 erection hardness. Grade 4 hardness can improve the patients' sexual life to a greater extent than grade 3 hardness. A marked improvement in erection hardness can be achieved in patients older than 50 years. Crown Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. [Efficacy and safety of vardenafil in patients with erectile dysfunction. Results of the Mexican Multicentric Study].

    PubMed

    Sotomayor-de-Zavaleta, Mariano; Rubio-Aurioles, Eusebio; Feria-Bernal, Guillermo; Mendoza-Valdés, Arturo; Quinzaños-Sordo, Luis Fernando; Ugarte-y-Romano, Fernando; Hurtado-Coll, Antonio; Telich-Vidal, Martín; Barreto-Fernández, Miguel Angel; Tapia-Serrano, María del Rosario; Ureta-Sánchez, Sergio Ermen; Jaspersen-Gastelum, Jorge; Pacheco-Gahbler, Carlos; Sentíes-Hernández, Ignacio R; Olguin, Jorge; Pérez-García, Javier

    2004-01-01

    The objective of the present study was to determine the efficacy and safety of a fixed dose of vardenafil in the treatment of patients with erectile dysfunction (ED). This was an open label, prospective and multicentric trial. After a 4-week wash out period, all patients received 20 mg of vardenafil given on demand for 12 weeks. Primary efficacy variables were the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), answers to questions 2 and 3 of the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) and the Global Assessment Question (GAQ). All adverse events were recorded and reported. 229 patients were screened. 177 received at least one dose of vardenafil and were included in the safety analysis. Mean age was 54.4 years old. Etiology of ED was organic or mixed in 77% of the patients. Erectile function domain of the IIEF changed from a basal mean score of 14.8 to 25.5 at the end of the study. 80.5% of the patients reported erections of rigidity and duration enough for satisfactory sexual intercourse and 93.3% improved their erections at the end of the study. Adverse events were mild to moderate and the most common were headache, dyspepsia, rhinitis and facial flushing. The drop out rate due to adverse events was 1.7%. This multicenter study confirms the high efficacy of this new phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, vardenafil. There was a low rate of discontinuations due to adverse events and a favorable safety profile. The results of this study are similar to the results of other studies conducted in other parts of the world.

  19. Commentary on "Asymptomatic prostatic inflammation in men with clinical BPH and erectile dysfunction affects the positive predictive value of prostate-specific antigen." Agnihotri S, Mittal RD, Kapoor R, Mandhani A, Department of Urology & Renal Transplantation, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India.: Urol Oncol 2014; [Epub ahead of print]. doi: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2014.03.004.

    PubMed

    Pu, Chunxiao; Wang, Jia; Wei, Qiang; Han, Ping

    2015-02-01

    To test the hypothesis that sexual dysfunction in elderly men with benign prostatic hyperplasia leads to prostatic inflammation, diagnosed by prostatic fluid interleukin-8 (IL-8), which lowers the positive predictive value of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Overall, 160 men with lower urinary tract symptoms between 50 and 75 years of age with an elevated PSA level of more than 4ng/ml with normal digital rectal examination and 50 age-matched controls with normal PSA level were prospectively evaluated for prostatic fluid IL-8 levels. Erectile dysfunction was measured by self-administered questionnaire of the Sexual Health Inventory for Men. Total and free serum PSA levels and IL-8 in prostatic fluid were measured 6 to 8 weeks after a course of 400mg of ofloxacin and 20mg of piroxicam given daily for 2 weeks. Transrectal ultrasonography-guided biopsy was done only when PSA level did not decrease less than 4ng/ml. Mean ages of patients and controls were 63.18 (standard deviation [SD]±7.10) and 60.18 (SD+6.02) years, respectively. Mean concentration of IL-8 in prostatic fluid of the patients was significantly higher, i.e., 6,678pg/ml (SD±1,985.7) than in control, i.e., 1,543pg/ml (SD±375.7) (P<0.001). Following anti-inflammatory treatment, there was a significant decrease in the mean level of IL-8 from baseline to 5,622pg/ml (SD±1,870.66) (P<0.001). Corresponding to this, a significant decrease was noted in total PSA levels to less than 4ng/ml in 105 (65.62%) patients. Men with the highest levels of IL-8 had a greater degree of erectile dysfunction. Men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction had significant inflammation of the prostate to cause spurious rise in PSA level resulting in an unnecessary biopsy. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. CPAP therapy improves erectile function in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea.

    PubMed

    Schulz, Richard; Bischof, Fabian; Galetke, Wolfgang; Gall, Henning; Heitmann, Jörg; Hetzenecker, Andrea; Laudenburg, Markus; Magnus, Till Jonas; Nilius, Georg; Priegnitz, Christina; Randerath, Winfried; Schröder, Maik; Treml, Marcel; Arzt, Michael

    2018-04-10

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is highly prevalent in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), however, the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on erectile function has not yet been thoroughly investigated in these patients. Ninety-four men with severe OSA (ie, with an apnea-hypopnea-index ≥ 30/h of sleep) were prospectively evaluated for the presence and severity of ED before and after 6-12 months of CPAP therapy. The abbreviated version of the International Index of Erectile Function, (the IIEF-5) was used to rate erectile function. Furthermore, all study participants responded to standard questionnaires of daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale), quality of life (WHO Wellbeing 5 questionnaire) and depression (Major Depression Inventory). ED as defined by an IIEF-5 score of ≤21 was present in 64 patients (68.1%). CPAP treatment significantly improved erectile function in those patients suffering from moderate and severe ED. Additionally, a trend for a correlation between the improvement of erectile function under CPAP and the hours of its use was observed. Finally, this effect was associated with larger improvements of quality of life in affected patients. ED is very frequent in men with severe OSA and can at least partly be reversed by long-term CPAP therapy in most seriously affected patients. The beneficial effect on erectile function may depend on CPAP compliance and is accompanied by improvements of quality of life. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Beneficial impact of exercise and obesity interventions on erectile function and its risk factors.

    PubMed

    Hannan, Johanna L; Maio, M Tina; Komolova, Marina; Adams, Michael A

    2009-03-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a multifaceted disease involving cardiovascular, metabolic, and hormonal factors and affects over 100 million men worldwide. ED has been shown to be a harbinger of underlying cardiovascular diseases (CVD), as there are common risk factors (aging, hypertension, obesity) and mechanistic basis. To provide an update on clinical and experimental evidence regarding the impact of lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and diet, with respect to changes in erectile function. Published evidence regarding the impact of aging, hypertension, and obesity on ED and CVD, as well as new experimental data linking obesity and diminished erectile responses. We reviewed the literature regarding common risk factors of ED and CVD, particularly involving obesity, as well as performed new analysis on the findings of other experimental studies involving diet and exercise interventions. Physical inactivity negatively impacts on erectile function, and experimental and clinical exercise interventions have been shown to improve sexual responses and overall cardiovascular health. Mediterranean-style diets and a reduction in caloric intake have been found to improve erectile function in men with the aspects of the metabolic syndrome. In addition, both clinical and experimental studies have confirmed that combining the two interventions provides additional benefit to erectile function, likely via reduced metabolic disturbances (e.g., inflammatory markers, insulin resistance), decreased visceral adipose tissue, and improvement in vascular function (e.g., increased endothelial function). Lifestyle modifications provide significant benefits to vascular health and erectile function in a population that is increasingly aged and more obese.

  2. A prospective study on association of prostatic calcifications with sexual dysfunction in men with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).

    PubMed

    Zhao, Zhigang; Xuan, Xujun; Zhang, Jingwei; He, Jun; Zeng, Guohua

    2014-10-01

    Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a common debilitating condition of unclear etiology. Sexual dysfunction is an important component of the clinical phenotype of CP/CPPS. Patients often have prostatic calcifications, but a link to sexual dysfunction is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of prostatic calcifications with sexual dysfunction in this condition. A total of 358 males with CP/CPPS were consecutively enrolled, and a prospectively maintained database of these patients was analyzed. Calcifications were diagnosed using ultrasound imaging of the prostate. Symptom severity was measured using the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (CPSI). Sexual dysfunction was evaluated using the validated 15-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) questionnaire and 5-item Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool scales. The variables were compared between patients with prostatic calcifications and those without using the Student's t-test, Wilcoxon unpaired test, or chi-square test. Logistic regression models were developed to explore a possible association between prostatic calcifications and sexual dysfunction. Measurable calcifications in the prostate were found in 175 (48.9%) of the 358 patients. Patients with calcifications were more likely to have higher white blood cell counts or positive bacteria cultures in their prostatic fluid, longer symptoms duration, and lower scores for the total IIEF-15, IIEF-erectile function, and IIEF-intercourse satisfaction domains (P < 0.001 for each). However, the scores for CPSI, premature ejaculation, and IIEF-orgasmic function, IIEF-sexual desire, and IIEF-overall satisfaction domains were identical between men with and without calcifications (P > 0.05 for each). Furthermore, logistic regression analyses revealed that intraprostatic calcification is significantly associated with self-assessed erectile dysfunction (ED) (odds ratio:3.632, 95% confidence interval: 2.405-5.822, P < 0.001). Our results showed that prostatic calcifications are significantly associated with the presence of ED in CP/CPPS males. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  3. Penis Pump

    MedlinePlus

    ... health conditions and any medications you take, including herbal supplements. This will help prevent potential problems. Side effects ... testicles or prostate What medications you take , including herbal supplements What erectile dysfunction treatments you've tried and ...

  4. Erectile Dysfunction and Diabetes

    MedlinePlus

    ... Risk? Home Prevention Diagnosing Diabetes and Learning About Prediabetes Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test Lower Your Risk ... Chat Closed engagement en -- So…Do You Have Prediabetes? - 2017-01-ad-council.html So…Do You ...

  5. Male Hypogonadism

    MedlinePlus

    ... Erectile dysfunction Infertility Decrease in beard and body hair growth Decrease in muscle mass Development of breast tissue ( ... Enlarged male breasts (gynecomastia) Decreased beard and body hair growth Osteoporosis By Mayo Clinic Staff . Mayo Clinic Footer ...

  6. Erectile Dysfunction

    MedlinePlus

    ... steps to manage your diabetes. Ask about other health problems. It's common for men with diabetes to have ... to make sure you're addressing any other health problems. Check your medications. Ask your doctor if you' ...

  7. Quality of Life After Open Radical Prostatectomy Compared with Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy.

    PubMed

    Wallerstedt, Anna; Nyberg, Tommy; Carlsson, Stefan; Thorsteinsdottir, Thordis; Stranne, Johan; Tyritzis, Stavros I; Stinesen Kollberg, Karin; Hugosson, Jonas; Bjartell, Anders; Wilderäng, Ulrica; Wiklund, Peter; Steineck, Gunnar; Haglind, Eva

    2018-01-20

    Surgery for prostate cancer has a large impact on quality of life (QoL). To evaluate predictors for the level of self-assessed QoL at 3 mo, 12 mo, and 24 mo after robot-assisted laparoscopic (RALP) and open radical prostatectomy (ORP). The LAParoscopic Prostatectomy Robot Open study, a prospective, controlled, nonrandomised trial of more than 4000 men who underwent radical prostatectomy at 14 centres. Here we report on QoL issues after RALP and ORP. The primary outcome was self-assessed QoL preoperatively and at 3 mo, 12 mo, and 24 mo postoperatively. A direct validated question of self-assessed QoL on a seven-digit visual scale was used. Differences in QoL were analysed using logistic regression, with adjustment for confounders. QoL did not differ between RALP and ORP postoperatively. Men undergoing ORP had a preoperatively significantly lower level of self-assessed QoL in a multivariable analysis compared with men undergoing RALP (odds ratio: 1.21, 95% confidence interval: 1.02-1.43), that disappeared when adjusted for preoperative preparedness for incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and certainty of being cured (odds ratio: 1.18, 95% confidence interval: 0.99-1.40). Incontinence and erectile dysfunction increased the risk for poor QoL at 3 mo, 12 mo, and 24 mo postoperatively. Biochemical recurrence did not affect QoL. A limitation of the study is the nonrandomised design. QoL at 3 mo, 12 mo, and 24 mo after RALP or ORP did not differ significantly between the two techniques. Poor QoL was associated with postoperative incontinence and erectile dysfunction but not with early cancer relapse, which was related to thoughts of death and waking up at night with worry. We did not find any difference in quality of life at 3 mo, 12 mo, and 24 mo when open and robot-assisted surgery for prostate cancer were compared. Postoperative incontinence and erectile dysfunction were associated with poor quality of life. Copyright © 2017 European Association of Urology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Bariatric surgery improves the cavernosal neuronal, vasorelaxation, and contraction mechanisms for erectile dysfunction as result of amelioration of glucose homeostasis in a diabetic rat model.

    PubMed

    Choi, Yong Sun; Lee, Sang Kuon; Bae, Woong Jin; Kim, Su Jin; Cho, Hyuk Jin; Hong, Sung-Hoo; Lee, Ji Youl; Hwang, Tae-Kon; Kim, Sae Woong

    2014-01-01

    Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment option for both obesity and obesity-related type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, little is known regarding the effects of bariatric surgery on erectile dysfunction among patients with T2DM. Therefore, we investigated whether bariatric surgery would lead to structural and biochemical changes in the corpus cavernosum. Twenty-five male Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty rats were assigned to either a control group (sham operation, n = 10) or a bariatric surgery group (gastric bypass surgery, n = 15). Four weeks after the operation, each group of rats was evaluated with an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The penile intracavernous pressure was measured for erectile functional analysis. Histologic evaluation of the tissue was performed with Masson's trichrome staining. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), Rho kinase, and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels in the corpus cavernosum were assayed by using western blot and ELISA. The mean body weight of the bariatric surgery group was lower than the control group (p = 0.002). The postoperative OGTT result was lower in the bariatric surgery group than in the control group (p = 0.014), and this was lower than the preoperative value (p = 0.037). The intracavernous pressure/mean arterial pressure ratio was higher in the bariatric surgery group compared to the control group (p = 0.021), and a higher cavernosum smooth muscle/collagen ratio was observed in the bariatric surgery group compared to the control group (p = 0.025). Likewise, the expression of eNOS and nNOS was higher in bariatric surgery group than in the control group (p = 0.027 and p = 0.008, respectively). Decreased expression of Rho kinase and levels of 8-OHdG were observed in the bariatric surgery group (p = 0.032). In this animal model, bariatric surgery appears to ameliorate T2DM-related metabolic dysfunction leading to structural and biochemical changes in the corpus cavernosum, and thus, results in improvement of erectile dysfunction associated with T2DM.

  9. Standard operating procedures for vascular surgery in erectile dysfunction: revascularization and venous procedures.

    PubMed

    Sohn, Michael; Hatzinger, Martin; Goldstein, Irwin; Krishnamurti, Sudhakar

    2013-01-01

    The impact of penile blood supply on erectile function was recognized some 500 years ago. At the turn of the 20th century first results of penile venous ligation were published and in 1973 the first surgical attempts to restore penile arterial inflow were undertaken. Numerous techniques were published in the meantime, but inclusion criteria, patient selection, and success evaluation differed extremely between study groups. To develop evidence-based standard operating procedures (SOPs) for vascular surgery in erectile dysfunction, based on recent state of the art consensus reports and recently published articles in peer-reviewed journals. Based on the recent publication of the consensus process during the 2009 International Consultation on Sexual Medicine in Paris, recommendations are derived for diagnosis and surgical treatment of vascular erectile dysfunction. In addition several recent publications in this field not mentioned in the consensus statements are included in the discussion. The Oxford system of evidence-based review was systematically applied. Due to the generally low level of evidence in this field expert opinions were accepted, if published after a well-defined consensus process in peer-reviewed journals. Referring to penile revascularization it may be concluded, that in the face of missing randomized trials, only recommendations grade D may be given: this kind of surgery may be offered to men less than 55 years, who are nonsmokers, nondiabetic, and demonstrate isolated arterial stenoses in the absence of generalized vascular disease. The evidence level for recommendations concerning penile venous ligations may be even lower. Too many unsolved controversies exist and universal diagnostic criteria for patient selection as well as operative technique selection have not been unequivocally established. This kind of surgery is still considered investigational but may be offered in special situations on an individualized basis in an investigational or research setting after obtaining written consent, using both pre- and postoperatively validated measuring instruments of success evaluation. SOPs for penile revascularization procedures can be developed, concerning a highly selected patient group with isolated arterial stenoses. Based on the available data it is not yet possible to define SOPs for surgical treatment of corporal veno-occlusive dysfunction. © 2012 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  10. Translational Perspective on the Role of Testosterone in Sexual Function and Dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Podlasek, Carol A; Mulhall, John; Davies, Kelvin; Wingard, Christopher J; Hannan, Johanna L; Bivalacqua, Trinity J; Musicki, Biljana; Khera, Mohit; González-Cadavid, Nestor F; Burnett, Arthur L

    2016-08-01

    The biological importance of testosterone is generally accepted by the medical community; however, controversy focuses on its relevance to sexual function and the sexual response, and our understanding of the extent of its role in this area is evolving. To provide scientific evidence examining the role of testosterone at the cellular and molecular levels as it pertains to normal erectile physiology and the development of erectile dysfunction and to assist in guiding successful therapeutic interventions for androgen-dependent sexual dysfunction. In this White Paper, the Basic Science Committee of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America assessed the current basic science literature examining the role of testosterone in sexual function and dysfunction. Testosterone plays an important role in sexual function through multiple processes: physiologic (stimulates activity of nitric oxide synthase), developmental (establishes and maintains the structural and functional integrity of the penis), neural (development, maintenance, function, and plasticity of the cavernous nerve and pelvic ganglia), therapeutically for dysfunctional regulation (beneficial effect on aging, diabetes, and prostatectomy), and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibition (testosterone supplement to counteract phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor resistance). Despite controversies concerning testosterone with regard to sexual function, basic science studies provide incontrovertible evidence for a significant role of testosterone in sexual function and suggest that properly administered testosterone therapy is potentially advantageous for treating male sexual dysfunction. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  11. Erectile Dysfunction Herbs: A Natural Treatment for ED?

    MedlinePlus

    ... Analysis. 2015;102:476. DHEA. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Nov. 1, 2015. L-arginine. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Nov. 1, 2015. ...

  12. Uric acid level and erectile dysfunction in patients with coronary artery disease.

    PubMed

    Solak, Yalcin; Akilli, Hakan; Kayrak, Mehmet; Aribas, Alpay; Gaipov, Abduzhappar; Turk, Suleyman; Perez-Pozo, Santos E; Covic, Adrian; McFann, Kim; Johnson, Richard J; Kanbay, Mehmet

    2014-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a frequent complaint of elderly subjects and is closely associated with endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Uric acid is also associated with endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and CVD, raising the hypothesis that an increased serum uric acid might predict ED in patients who are at risk for coronary artery disease (CAD). This study aims to evaluate the association of serum uric acid levels with presence and severity of ED in patients presenting with chest pain of presumed cardiac origin. This is a cross-sectional study of 312 adult male patients with suspected CAD who underwent exercise stress test (EST) for workup of chest pain and completed a sexual health inventory for men survey form to determine the presence and severity of ED. Routine serum biochemistry (and uric acid levels) were measured. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess risk factors for ED. The short version of the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire diagnosed ED (cutoff score ≤ 21). Serum uric acid levels were determined. Patients with chest pain of suspected cardiac origin underwent an EST. One hundred forty-nine of 312 (47.7%) male subjects had ED by survey criteria. Patients with ED were older and had more frequent CAD, hypertension, diabetes and impaired renal function, and also had significantly higher levels of uric acid, fibrinogen, glucose, C-reactive protein, triglycerides compared with patients without ED. Uric acid levels were associated with ED by univariate analysis (odds ratio = 1.36, P = 0.002); however, this association was not observed in multivariate analysis adjusted for estimated glomerular filtration rate. Subjects presenting with chest pain of presumed cardiac origin are more likely to have ED if they have elevated uric acid levels. © 2013 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  13. Levels of uric acid in erectile dysfunction of different aetiology.

    PubMed

    Barassi, Alessandra; Corsi Romanelli, Massimiliano Marco; Pezzilli, Raffaele; Dozio, Elena; Damele, Clara Anna Linda; Vaccalluzzo, Liborio; Di Dario, Marco; Goi, Giancarlo; Papini, Nadia; Massaccesi, Luca; Colpi, Giovanni Maria; Melzi d'Eril, Gian Vico

    2018-01-12

    Erectile dysfunction is a common disease characterized by endothelial dysfunction. The aetiology of ED is often multifactorial but evidence is being accumulated in favor of the proper function of the vascular endothelium that is essential to achieving and maintaining penile erection. Uric acid itself causes endothelial dysfunction via decreased nitric oxide production. This study aims to evaluate the serum uric acid (SUA) levels in 180 ED patients, diagnosed with the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) and 30 non-ED control. Serum uric acid was analyzed with a commercially available kit using ModularEVO (Roche, Monza, Italy). Within-assay and between-assay variations were 3.0% and 6.0%, respectively. Out of the ED patients, 85 were classified as arteriogenic (A-ED) and 95 as non-arteriogenic (NA-ED) with penile-echo-color-Doppler. Uric acid levels (median and range in mg/dL) in A-ED patients (5.8, 4.3-7.5) were significantly higher (p < .001) than in NA-ED patients (4.4, 2.6-5.9) and in control group (4.6, 3.1-7.2). There was a significant difference (p < .001) between uric acid levels in patients with mild A-ED (IIEF-5 16-20) and severe/complete A-ED (IIEF-5 ≤ 10) that were 5.4 (range 4.3-6.5) mg/dL and 6.8 (range 6.4-7.2) mg/dL, respectively. There was no difference between the levels of uric acid in patients with different degree of NA-ED. Our findings reveal that SUA is a marker of ED but only of ED of arteriogenic aetiology.

  14. The relationships between sex hormones and sexual function in middle-aged and older European men.

    PubMed

    O'Connor, Daryl B; Lee, David M; Corona, Giovanni; Forti, Gianni; Tajar, Abdelouahid; O'Neill, Terence W; Pendleton, Neil; Bartfai, Gyorgy; Boonen, Steven; Casanueva, Felipe F; Finn, Joseph D; Giwercman, Aleksander; Han, Thang S; Huhtaniemi, Ilpo T; Kula, Krzysztof; Labrie, Fernand; Lean, Michael E J; Punab, Margus; Silman, Alan J; Vanderschueren, Dirk; Wu, Frederick C W

    2011-10-01

    Limited data are available exploring the associations between sex hormones, multiple domains of sexual functioning, and sexual function-related distress in nonpatient samples in Europe. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationships between serum testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and sexual function in a multicenter population-based study of aging in men. Using stratified random sampling, 2838 men aged 40-79 yr completed the European Male Ageing Study-Sexual Function Questionnaire and provided a blood sample for hormone measurements. T, E2, and DHT were measured using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. We conducted a community-based population survey in eight European centers. Self-reported sexual function (overall sexual function, sexual function-related distress, erectile dysfunction, masturbation) was measured. Total and free T, but not E2 or DHT, was associated with overall sexual function in middle-aged and older men. E2 was the only hormone associated with sexual function-related distress such that higher levels were related to greater distress. Free T levels were associated with masturbation frequency and erectile dysfunction in the fully adjusted models, such that higher T was associated with less dysfunction and greater frequency. Moreover, there was a T threshold for the relationship between total T, sexual function, and erectile dysfunction. At T concentrations of 8 nmol/liter or less, T was associated with worse sexual functioning, whereas at T levels over 8 nmol/liter, the relationship came to a plateau. These findings suggest that different hormonal mechanisms may regulate sexual functioning (T) vs. the psychological aspects (E2) of male sexual behavior. Moreover, there was a T threshold for overall sexual function such that at levels greater than 8 nmol/liter the relationship between T and sexual function did not become stronger.

  15. Emerging drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Peak, Taylor C; Yafi, Faysal A; Sangkum, Premsant; Hellstrom, Wayne J G

    2015-06-01

    Erectile dysfunction adversely affects the lives of millions of men, and is the most commonly treated sexual disorder today. The erectile process has been extensively investigated, with major advances made in elucidating many of the complex molecular pathways involved. These advances have allowed researchers to design and study drug formulations that target various aspects of this complex process. The initial culmination of this research was the introduction of phosphodiesterase 5-inhibitors. While effective in many patients, they are not satisfactory for all afflicted men. As a result, researchers are developing novel drugs that target different molecular pathways. The paper will review these pathways, and the potential agents that target them. More specifically, first dopaminergic and melanocortin receptor agonists that act centrally will be covered. Then, the paper will examine the "second-generation" phosphodiesterase 5-inhibitors, soluble guanylate cyclases, rho-kinase inhibitors, and maxi-k channel activators that act peripherally. Most of these novel drugs have yet to reach Phase III studies. However, it is likely that in years to come, patients will be selectively treated with these novel agents as a monotherapy or in combination with others acting in a synergistic manner.

  16. Male erectile dysfunction: integrating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.

    PubMed

    Simopoulos, Eugene F; Trinidad, Anton C

    2013-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED), defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance, is the most common sexual problem in men. ED arises when there is disruption of the complex interplay between vascular, neurologic, hormonal and psychologic factors necessary for normal erectile function. It may have a significant effect on quality of life and portend undetected cardiovascular disease. Risk factors for development of ED include advancing age, tobacco use, a history of pelvic irradiation or surgery and antipsychotic use (Table 1) [1]. Treatment guidelines continue to evolve for optimal management of ED. In this article, we review diagnostic and treatment strategies for ED relevant to psychiatrists. We present an integrative approach to the treatment of ED based on a review of the urologic and psychiatric literature. ED is multifactorial in origin and responsive to a variety of therapeutic interventions, including psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in which cognitive underpinnings of poor sexual performance, including diminished self-esteem, lack of confidence and perceived failures in the male role, are examined. Psychiatrists can readily perform a basic workup for ED as they integrate both a medical and therapeutic model when confronted with such patients. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Association between coronary heart disease and erectile dysfunction in Chinese Han population

    PubMed Central

    Tian, Guo-Xiang; Li, Sheng; Liu, Tong-Zu; Zeng, Xian-Tao; Wei, Wan-Lin; Wang, Xing-Huan

    2017-01-01

    To investigate the association between coronary heart disease (CHD) and erectile dysfunction (ED) in Chinese Han population. Patients who went to the andrological out-patient clinic of our hospital between August 1, 2015 and May 1, 2016 and met all eligible criteria were enrolled in this study. The patients diagnosed as ED using self-administered International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire were considered as case group and others were considered as control. The cases were categorized as mild, moderate, and severe ED. Subjects were interviewed for the history of CHD. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using the SPSS 18.0 software. A total of 240 participants (56 ED patients and 184 controls) were enrolled. CHD prevalence was higher in cases without statistical significance (OR = 1.20, 95%CI = 0.63-2.29; p = 0.58). Results of adjusted analysis also showed a non-significantly increased risk (OR = 1.25, 95%CI = 0.55-2.85; p = 0.59). Stratified analysis by severity of ED revealed similar results. This study suggests no significant association exists between CHD and ED in Chinese Han population. PMID:28903442

  18. Erectile Dysfunction after Radical Prostatectomy: Prevalence, Medical Treatments, and Psychosocial Interventions

    PubMed Central

    Emanu, Jessica C.; Avildsen, Isabelle K.; Nelson, Christian J.

    2016-01-01

    Purpose of review This review will discuss erectile dysfunction (ED) in prostate cancer patients following radical prostatectomy (RP). It will focus on the prevalence and current treatments for ED as well as the emotional impact of ED and the current psychosocial interventions designed to help patients cope with this side effect. Recent findings While there is a large discrepancy in prevalence rates of ED after RP, several recent studies have cited rates as high as 85%. The concept of “penile rehabilitation” is now the standard of practice to treat ED following RP. However, many men avoid seeking help or utilizing ED treatments. This avoidance is related to the shame, frustration, and distress many men with ED and their partners experience. Recent psychosocial interventions have been developed to facilitate the use of treatments and help men cope with ED. These interventions have shown initial promise, however, continued intervention development is needed to reduce distress and improve long-term erectile function (EF) outcomes. Summary ED is a significant problem following prostate cancer surgery. While there are effective medical treatments, the development of psychosocial interventions should continue to evolve to maximize the assistance we can give to men and their partners. PMID:26808052

  19. A multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of sildenafil citrate in Canadian men with erectile dysfunction and untreated symptoms of depression, in the absence of major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Kennedy, Sidney H; Dugré, Hélène; Defoy, Isabelle

    2011-05-01

    Depression and erectile dysfunction (ED) often co-occur. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors are effective in men with ED and untreated depression, or ED secondary to antidepressants. This study evaluated sildenafil treatment in Canadian men with clinically diagnosed ED (Sexual Health Inventory for Men score ≤ 21) and mild-to-moderate untreated depressive symptoms [Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) score 14-28], but excluding major depressive disorder. Pretreatment screening using the Sexual Health Inventory for Men and BDI-II showed that men with ED were more likely to have depression than men without ED, and ED severity was a predictor of depression (P=0.0226). Two hundred and two men were randomized to 6 weeks of double-blind treatment with placebo (n=98) or sildenafil (n=104), initial dose of 50 mg, adjustable to 25 or 100 mg. The men were evaluated on all domains of the International Index of Erectile Function and the Sex Effects Questionnaire, Global Efficacy Questions, and Event-log data. Compared with placebo, patients treated with sildenafil had significantly greater changes from baseline in BDI-II scores (P<0.001). All International Index of Erectile Function domains and the Sex Effects Questionnaire components were also significantly improved in sildenafil group (P<0.01). The most common adverse events included headache, dyspepsia, vasodilatation, and respiratory tract infections and were generally mild in intensity. 2011 Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

  20. Diabetes

    MedlinePlus

    ... pain, tingling, a loss of feeling, problems digesting food, and erectile dysfunction Kidney problems , which can lead to kidney failure Weakened immune system, which can lead to more frequent infections Increased chance of having a heart attack or stroke

  1. A multifaceted approach to maximize erectile function and vascular health.

    PubMed

    Meldrum, David R; Gambone, Joseph C; Morris, Marge A; Ignarro, Louis J

    2010-12-01

    To review the role of various factors influencing vascular nitric oxide (NO) and cyclic GMP, and consequently, erectile function and vascular health. Pertinent publications are reviewed. Daily moderate exercise stimulates vascular NO production. Maintenance of normal body weight and waist/hip ratio allows NO stimulation by insulin. Decreased intake of fat, sugar, and simple carbohydrates rapidly converted to sugar reduces the adverse effects of fatty acids and sugar on endothelial NO production. Omega-3 fatty acids stimulate endothelial NO release. Antioxidants boost NO production and prevent NO breakdown. Folic acid, calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin E support the biochemical pathways leading to NO release. Cessation of smoking and avoidance of excessive alcohol preserve normal endothelial function. Moderate use of alcohol and certain proprietary supplements may favorably influence erectile and vascular function. Treatment of any remaining testosterone deficit will both increase erectile function and reduce any associated metabolic syndrome. After production of NO and cyclic GMP are improved, use of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors should result in greater success in treating remaining erectile dysfunction. Recent studies have also suggested positive effects of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors on vascular function. A multifaceted approach will maximize both erectile function and vascular health. Copyright © 2010 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Recent advances in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Mobley, David F; Khera, Mohit; Baum, Neil

    2017-11-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common conditions affecting middle-aged and older men. Nearly every primary care physician, internist and geriatrician will be called upon to manage this condition or to make referrals to urologists, endocrinologists and cardiologists who will assist in the treatment of ED. This article will briefly discuss the diagnosis and management of ED. In addition, emerging concepts in ED management will be discussed, such as the use of testosterone to treat ED, the role of the endothelium in men with ED and treating the partner of the man with ED. Finally, future potential therapies for ED will be discussed. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  3. SOP: physical examination and laboratory testing for men with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Ghanem, Hussein M; Salonia, Andrea; Martin-Morales, Antonio

    2013-01-01

    Physical examination and laboratory evaluation of men with erectile dysfunction (ED) are opportunities to identify potentially life-threatening etiologies and comorbid conditions. To review genital anatomy, identify any physical abnormalities, assess for comorbid conditions, and reveal significant risk factors for ED. Expert opinion was based on evidence-based medical literature and consensus discussions between members of this International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) standards committee. For men with ED, a general examination including blood pressure and pulse measurements and a focused genital exam are advised. Fasting blood sugar, serum total testosterone, prolactin levels, and a lipid profile may reveal significant comorbid conditions. Though physical examination and laboratory evaluation of most men with ED may not reveal the exact diagnosis, these opportunities to identify critical comorbid conditions should not be missed. © 2012 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  4. Hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction associated with soy product consumption.

    PubMed

    Siepmann, Timo; Roofeh, Joseph; Kiefer, Florian W; Edelson, David G

    2011-01-01

    Previous research has focused on the beneficial effects of soy and its active ingredients, isoflavones. For instance, soy consumption has been associated with lower cardiovascular and breast cancer risks. However, the number of reports demonstrating adverse effects of isoflavones due to their estrogenlike properties has increased. We present the case of a 19-y-old type 1 diabetic but otherwise healthy man with sudden onset of loss of libido and erectile dysfunction after the ingestion of large quantities of soy-based products in a vegan-style diet. Blood levels of free and total testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) were taken at the initial presentation for examination and continuously monitored up to 2 y after discontinuation of the vegan diet. Blood concentrations of free and total testosterone were initially decreased, whereas DHEA was increased. These parameters normalized within 1 y after cessation of the vegan diet. Normalization of testosterone and DHEA levels was paralleled by a constant improvement of symptoms; full sexual function was regained 1 y after cessation of the vegan diet. This case indicates that soy product consumption is related to hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a combination of decreased free testosterone and increased DHEA blood concentrations after consuming a soy-rich diet. Hence, this case emphasizes the impact of isoflavones in the regulation of sex hormones and associated physical alterations. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Association Between Periodontal Disease and Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review

    PubMed Central

    Kellesarian, Sergio Varela; Kellesarian, Tammy Varela; Ros Malignaggi, Vanessa; Al-Askar, Mansour; Ghanem, Alexis; Malmstrom, Hans; Javed, Fawad

    2016-01-01

    A limited number of studies have reported an association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and chronic periodontitis (CP). The aim of the present study is to assess the association between CP and ED through a systematic review of published literature. To address the focused question, “Is there a relationship between ED and CP?” indexed databases were searched till December 2015 using various key words “erectile dysfunction,” “periodontal disease,” “periodontitis,” “dental infection,” and “impotence.” Letters to the editor, commentaries, historic reviews, and experimental studies were excluded. The pattern of the present systematic review was customized to primarily summarize the pertinent data. Nine studies were included. Seven studies had a cross-sectional design and two studies were randomized control trials. The number of study participants ranged between 53 and 513,258 individuals with age ranging between 20 years and 85 years (median age ranging between 34.9 ± 4.9 years and 50.9 ± 16.6 years). In all studies, a positive relationship between CP and ED was reported. In four studies, odds ratio were reported, ranging between 1.53 and 3.35. From the literature reviewed, there seems to be a positive association between ED and CP; however, further well-designed controlled clinical trials are needed in this regard. It is emphasized that physicians should refer patients with ED to oral health care providers for a comprehensive oral evaluation and treatment. PMID:27030114

  6. Chronic pain has a negative impact on sexuality in testis cancer survivors.

    PubMed

    Pühse, Gerald; Wachsmuth, Julia Urte; Kemper, Sebastian; Husstedt, Ingo W; Evers, Stefan; Kliesch, Sabine

    2012-01-01

    Testis cancer is a disease that directly affects a man's sense of masculinity and involves treatments compromising sexual function. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and the influence of chronic pain on sexuality in long-term testis cancer survivors. Thus, we examined 539 patients after they had one testis removed because of a testicular germ cell tumor. Having completed oncologic therapy, all patients received a detailed questionnaire asking about the occurrence and clinical presentation of testis pain before and after orchiectomy. In addition, items from the abridged International Index of Erectile Function and Brief Sexual Function Inventory were used to gain precise information on individual sexual function. Overall, 34.5% of our testicular cancer survivors complained of reduced sexual desire, and sexual activity was reduced in 41.6%. Erectile dysfunction was present in up to 31.5% of patients. In 24.4%, the ability to maintain an erection during intercourse was impaired. Ejaculatory disorders (premature, delayed, retrograde, or anejaculation) occurred in 84.9% of our testis cancer survivors. A total of 32.4% of our participants experienced a reduced intensity of orgasm, and 95.4% experienced reduced overall sexual satisfaction. There was a significant correlation between the occurrence of chronic pain symptoms and the relative frequency and intensity of erectile dysfunction, inability to maintain an erection, ejaculation disorders, and reduced intensity of orgasm. In conclusion, chronic pain has a negative impact on sexuality in testis cancer survivors.

  7. Treatment of antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction with sildenafil: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Nurnberg, H George; Hensley, Paula L; Gelenberg, Alan J; Fava, Maurizio; Lauriello, John; Paine, Susan

    2003-01-01

    Sexual dysfunction is a common adverse effect of antidepressants that frequently results in treatment noncompliance. To assess the efficacy of sildenafil citrate in men with sexual dysfunction associated with the use of selective and nonselective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) antidepressants. Prospective, parallel-group, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted between November 1, 2000, and January 1, 2001, at 3 US university medical centers among 90 male outpatients (mean [SD] age, 45 [8] years) with major depression in remission and sexual dysfunction associated with SRI antidepressant treatment. Patients were randomly assigned to take sildenafil (n = 45) or placebo (n = 45) at a flexible dose starting at 50 mg and adjustable to 100 mg before sexual activity for 6 weeks. The primary outcome measure was score on the Clinical Global Impression-Sexual Function (CGI-SF); secondary measures were scores on the International Index of Erectile Function, Arizona Sexual Experience Scale, Massachusetts General Hospital-Sexual Functioning Questionnaire, and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D). Among the 90 randomized patients, 93% (83/89) of patients treated per protocol took at least 1 dose of study drug and 85% (76/89) completed week 6 end-point assessments with last observation carried forward analyses. At a CGI-SF score of 2 or lower, 54.5% (24/44) of sildenafil compared with 4.4% (2/45) of placebo patients were much or very much improved (P<.001). Erectile function, arousal, ejaculation, orgasm, and overall satisfaction domain measures improved significantly in sildenafil compared with placebo patients. Mean depression scores remained consistent with remission (HAM-D score < or =10) in both groups for the study duration. In our study, sildenafil effectively improved erectile function and other aspects of sexual function in men with sexual dysfunction associated with the use of SRI antidepressants. These improvements may allow patients to maintain adherence with effective antidepressant treatment.

  8. External Mechanical Devices and Vascular Surgery for Erectile Dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Trost, Landon W; Munarriz, Ricardo; Wang, Run; Morey, Allen; Levine, Laurence

    2016-11-01

    The field of sexual medicine is continuously advancing, with novel outcomes reported on a regular basis. Given the rapid evolution, updated guidelines are essential to inform practicing clinicians on best practices. To summarize the current literature and provide clinical guidelines on penile traction therapy, vacuum erection devices, and penile revascularization. A consensus panel was held with leading sexual medicine experts during the 2015 International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM). Relevant literature was reviewed and graded based on Oxford criteria to develop evidence-based guideline and consensus statements. The development of clinically relevant guidelines. Penile traction therapy is a viable therapy to modestly improve penile length as a primary therapy, before penile prosthesis placement in men with decreased penile length or after surgery for Peyronie's disease. It also might have a role in the acute phase of Peyronie's disease but has inconsistent outcomes in the long-term phase. Vacuum erection devices are effective in creating an erection satisfactory for intercourse, even in difficult-to-treat populations. They also might be used in the post-prostatectomy setting to maintain penile length but have insufficient evidence as a penile rehabilitation therapy. For vasculogenic erectile dysfunction, men with suspected arterial insufficiency can be evaluated with penile Duplex Doppler ultrasonography and confirmatory angiography. Penile revascularization procedures have consistently demonstrated benefits in very select patient populations; however, inadequate data exists to suggest the superiority of one technique. Men with vascular risk factors are likely poor candidates for penile revascularization, although veno-occlusive dysfunction and age are less significant. Therapies for treating primary veno-occlusive dysfunction are not recommended and should be reserved for clinical trials. Since the prior ICSM meeting, multiple developments have occurred in external mechanical devices and penile revascularization for the treatment of erectile and sexual dysfunction. Sexual medicine clinicians are encouraged to review and incorporate recommendations as applicable to their scope of practice. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Effect of Linear Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction-12-Month Follow-Up of a Randomized, Double-Blinded, Sham-Controlled Study.

    PubMed

    Fojecki, Grzegorz Lukasz; Tiessen, Stefan; Osther, Palle Jørn Sloth

    2018-03-01

    Short-term data on the effect of low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) on erectile dysfunction (ED) have been inconsistent. The suggested mechanisms of action of Li-ESWT on ED include stimulation of cell proliferation, tissue regeneration, and angiogenesis, which can be processes with a long generation time. Therefore, long-term data on the effect of Li-ESWT on ED are strongly warranted. To assess the outcome at 6 and 12 months of linear Li-ESWT on ED from a previously published randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled trial. Subjects with ED (N = 126) who scored lower than 25 points in the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) were eligible for the study. They were allocated to 1 of 2 groups: 5 weekly sessions of sham treatment (group A) or linear Li-ESWT (group B). After a 4-week break, the 2 groups received active treatment once a week for 5 weeks. At baseline and 6 and 12 months, subjects were evaluated by the IIEF-EF, the Erectile Hardness Scale (EHS), and the Sexual Quality of Life in Men. The primary outcome measure was an increase of at least 5 points in the IIEF-EF (ΔIIEF-EF score). The secondary outcome measure was an increase in the EHS score to at least 3 in men with a score no higher than 2 at baseline. Data were analyzed by linear and logistic regressions. Linear regression of the ΔIIEF-EF score from baseline to 12 months included 95 patients (dropout rate = 25%). Adjusted for the IIEF-EF score at baseline, the difference between groups B and A was -1.30 (95% CI = -4.37 to 1.77, P = .4). The success rate based on the main outcome parameter (ΔIIEF-EF score ≥ 5) was 54% in group A vs 47% in group B (odds ratio = 0.67, P = .28). Improvement based on changes in the EHS score in groups A and B was 34% and 24%, respectively (odds ratio = 0.47, P = .82). Exposure to 2 cycles of linear Li-ESWT for ED is not superior to 1 cycle at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Fojecki GL, Tiessen S, Osther PJS. Effect of Linear Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction-12-Month Follow-Up of a Randomized, Double-Blinded, Sham-Controlled Study. Sex Med 2018;6:1-7. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Treatment of erectile dysfunction with sildenafil citrate (Viagra) in parkinsonism due to Parkinson's disease or multiple system atrophy with observations on orthostatic hypotension

    PubMed Central

    Hussain, I; Brady, C; Swinn, M; Mathias, C; Fowler, C

    2001-01-01

    OBJECTIVES—To assess the efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate (Viagra) in men with erectile dysfunction and parkinsonism due either to Parkinson's disease or multiple system atrophy.
METHODS—Twenty four patients with erectile disease were recruited, 12 with Parkinson's disease and 12 with multiple system atrophy, into a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled, crossover study of sildenafil citrate. The starting dose was 50 mg active or placebo medication with the opportunity for dose adjustment depending on efficacy and tolerability. The international index of erectile function questionnaire (IIEF) was used to assess treatment efficacy and a quality of life questionnaire to assess the effect of treatment on sex life and whole life. Criteria for entry included a definite neurological diagnosis and a standing systolic blood pressure of 90-180 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure of 50-110 mm Hg, on treatment if necessary. Blood pressure was taken at randomisation (visit 2) and crossover (visit 5) lying, sitting, and standing, before and 1 hour after taking the study medication in hospital.
RESULTS—Sidenafil citrate was efficacious in men with parkinsonism with a significant improvement, as demonstrated in questionnaire responses, in ability to achieve and maintain an erection and improvement in quality of sex life. In Parkinson's disease there was minimal change in blood pressure between active and placebo medication. In multiple system atrophy, six patients were studied before recruitment was stopped because three men showed a severe drop in blood pressure 1 hour after taking the active medication. Two were already known to have orthostatic hypotension and were receiving treatment with ephedrine and midodrine but the third had asymptomatic hypotension. However, the blood pressures in all three had been within the inclusion criterion for the study protocol. Despite a significant postural fall in blood pressure after sildenafil, all patients with multiple system atrophy reported a good erectile response and were reluctant to discontinue the medication.
CONCLUSIONS—Sidenafil citrate (50 mg) is efficacious in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in parkinsonism due to Parkinson's disease or multiple system atrophy; however, it may unmask or exacerbate hypotension in multiple system atrophy. As Parkinson's disease may be diagnostically difficult to distinguish from multiple system atrophy, especially in the early stages, we recommend measurement of lying and standing blood pressure before prescribing sildenafil to men with parkinsonism. Furthermore, such patients should be made aware of seeking medical advice if they develop symptoms on treatment suggestive of orthostatic hypotension.

 PMID:11511713

  11. Examining Sexual Dysfunction in Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Results of Cross-Sectional Mixed-Methods Research

    PubMed Central

    Kowalkowski, Marc A; Chandrashekar, Aravind; Amiel, Gilad E; Lerner, Seth P; Wittmann, Daniela A; Latini, David M; Goltz, Heather Honoré

    2014-01-01

    Introduction More than 70,000 new cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed in the United States annually; with 75% being non-muscle-invasive (NMIBC). Research examining sexual dysfunction in bladder cancer survivors is limited, and previous studies have focused on cystectomy patients. Aims To evaluate the impact of sexual dysfunction on NMIBC survivors. Methods Mixed-methods data collection integrated a quantitative survey (Study 1; n = 117) and semi-structured qualitative interviews (Study 2; n = 26) from a non-overlapping sample of NMIBC survivors. We performed descriptive and classification and regression tree (CART) analyses of survey data and qualitative analysis of interviews. Main Outcome Measures Self-reported sexual activity, interest in sex, and physiologic symptoms (e.g., male erectile/ejaculatory difficulties, female vaginal dryness) over the previous 4 weeks; partner communication about sexuality; contamination concerns; illness intrusiveness. Results Participants in these studies averaged 65 years of age (mean and median) and were male (77%), white (91%), and married (75%). Survey (Study 1) results linked NMIBC treatment to sexual symptoms and relationship issues. Many participants reported sexual inactivity (38.8%). Sexually active participants reported erectile difficulties (60.0%), vaginal dryness (62.5%), and worry about contaminating partner with treatment agents (23.2%). While almost one-half reported the usefulness of talking with partners about sexual function, only one-fifth of participants reported sharing all concerns with their partners. CART analysis supported the importance of communication. One-half of interviewees (Study 2) reported sexual dysfunction. Two-thirds reported negative impacts on their relationships, including perceived loss of intimacy and divorce; over one-third were sexually inactive for fear of contaminating their partner or spreading NMIBC. Conclusions Survivors' sexual symptoms may result from NMIBC, comorbidities, or both. These results inform literature and practice by raising awareness about the frequency of symptoms and the impact on NMIBC survivors' intimate relationships. Further work is needed to design symptom management education programs to dispel misinformation about contamination post-treatment and improve quality of life. Kowalkowski MA, Chandrashekar A, Amiel GE, Lerner SP, Wittmann DA, Latini DM, and Goltz HH. Examining sexual dysfunction in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: Results of cross-sectional mixed-methods research. Sex Med 2014;2:141–151. PMID:25356311

  12. Sexual experience of female partners of men with erectile dysfunction: the female experience of men's attitudes to life events and sexuality (FEMALES) study.

    PubMed

    Fisher, William A; Rosen, Raymond C; Eardley, Ian; Sand, Michael; Goldstein, Irwin

    2005-09-01

    Much research has explored the experience of erectile dysfunction (ED) among men with ED, but far less attention has been paid to the perceptions and sexual experiences of the female partners of men with ED. The objective of this study was to characterize the attitudes, beliefs, and sexual experience of female partners of men with erectile difficulties. Female partners of men with ED who had participated in the Men's Attitudes to Life Events and Sexuality (MALES) study were recruited for this research via mail or Internet, after their male partners consented to this contact. Female partners of men with ED (N = 293) responded to questionnaire measures assessing their frequency of sexual activity and the nature of their sexual experience, both before and after the development of their partner's ED, and in relation to their partner's use of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Women reported engaging in sexual activity significantly less frequently after their partner developed ED in comparison with before (P < 0.001). Moreover, significantly fewer women experienced sexual desire, arousal, or orgasm "almost always" or "most times," and significantly fewer women reported satisfaction with their sexual relationship after their partner developed ED, compared with before (P < 0.001). Decreases in female sexual satisfaction and frequency of orgasm were significantly related to the male partner's self-reported severity of ED (P < 0.01). The proportion of women who experienced sexual desire, arousal, and orgasm "almost always" or "most times" was significantly higher in the group whose partners were currently using a PDE5 inhibitor (P < 0.05). Erectile dysfunction has significant adverse effects on the female partner's sexual experience. Women with partners who were currently using PDE5 inhibitors had a more satisfying sexual experience than those whose partners did not use a PDE5 inhibitor.

  13. Feasibility and acceptability of couple counselling and pelvic floor muscle training after operation for prostate cancer.

    PubMed

    Karlsen, Randi V; E Bidstrup, Pernille; Hvarness, Helle; Bagi, Per; Friis Lippert, Elisabeth; Permild, Rikke; Giraldi, Annamaria; Lawaetz, Agnethe; Krause, Eva; Due, Ulla; Johansen, Christoffer

    2017-02-01

    Radical prostatectomy is often followed by long-lasting erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence, with adverse effects on the quality of life and intimate relationship of patients and partners. We developed the ProCan intervention to ameliorate sexual and urological dysfunction after radical prostatectomy and examined its feasibility, acceptability and changes in sexual function. Between May 2014 and October 2014, seven couples attending the Department of Urology, Rigshospitalet, were included 3-4 weeks after radical prostatectomy in the ProCan intervention, which consists of up to six couple counselling sessions, group instruction in pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), up to three individual PFMT sessions and a DVD home training program. We examined its feasibility on the basis of the recruitment rate, adherence to and acceptability of the intervention, the response rate and changes in erectile and sexual functioning measured on the International Index of Erectile Function at baseline and at eight and 12 months. The recruitment rate was 14%. One couple withdrew, six couples attended 1-4 counselling sessions, and all patients attended PFMT until continence was achieved. The response rate on outcomes was 85% for patients and 71% for partners. The couples reported that counselling improved their sex life but it did not improve their ability to talk openly about sex. Most patients found that the physiotherapist improved their motivation and the quality and intensity of PFMT. Erectile dysfunction improved from severe at baseline to moderate at eight months' follow-up, and mean sexual functioning improved from 18.4 to 37.1 points at eight months' follow-up, but decreased slightly to 31.4 at 12 months. Our results suggest that the recruitment procedure should be adapted and minor revisions are needed in the intervention. The key components, couple counselling and PFMT, were well accepted and achievable for the patients.

  14. A novel experimental model of erectile dysfunction in rats with heart failure using volume overload.

    PubMed

    Silva, Fábio Henrique; Veiga, Frederico José Reis; Mora, Aline Gonçalves; Heck, Rodrigo Sader; De Oliveira, Caroline Candida; Gambero, Alessandra; Franco-Penteado, Carla Fernanda; Antunes, Edson; Gardner, Jason D; Priviero, Fernanda Bruschi Marinho; Claudino, Mário Angelo

    2017-01-01

    Patients with heart failure (HF) display erectile dysfunction (ED). However, the pathophysiology of ED during HF remains poorly investigated. This study aimed to characterize the aortocaval fistula (ACF) rat model associated with HF as a novel experimental model of ED. We have undertaken molecular and functional studies to evaluate the alterations of the nitric oxide (NO) pathway, autonomic nervous system and oxidative stress in the penis. Male rats were submitted to ACF for HF induction. Intracavernosal pressure in anesthetized rats was evaluated. Concentration-response curves to contractile (phenylephrine) and relaxant agents (sodium nitroprusside; SNP), as well as to electrical field stimulation (EFS), were obtained in the cavernosal smooth muscle (CSM) strips from sham and HF rats. Protein expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) and phosphodiestarese-5 in CSM were evaluated, as well as NOX2 (gp91phox) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) mRNA expression. SOD activity and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) were also performed in plasma. HF rats display erectile dysfunction represented by decreased ICP responses compared to sham rats. The neurogenic contractile responses elicited by EFS were greater in CSM from the HF group. Likewise, phenylephrine-induced contractions were greater in CSM from HF rats. Nitrergic response induced by EFS were decreased in the cavernosal tissue, along with lower eNOS, nNOS and phosphodiestarese-5 protein expressions. An increase of NOX2 and SOD mRNA expression in CSM and plasma TBARs of HF group were detected. Plasma SOD activity was decreased in HF rats. ED in HF rats is associated with decreased NO bioavailability in erectile tissue due to eNOS/nNOS dowregulation and NOX2 upregulation, as well as hypercontractility of the penis. This rat model of ACF could be a useful tool to evaluate the molecular alterations of ED associated with HF.

  15. Sex Hormones Predict the Incidence of Erectile Dysfunction: From a Population-Based Prospective Cohort Study (FAMHES).

    PubMed

    Luo, Yawen; Zhang, Haiying; Liao, Ming; Tang, Qin; Huang, Yuzhen; Xie, Jinling; Tang, Yan; Tan, Aihua; Gao, Yong; Lu, Zheng; Yao, Ziting; Jiang, Yonghua; Lin, Xinggu; Wu, Chunlei; Yang, Xiaobo; Mo, Zengnan

    2015-05-01

    The decline of testosterone has been known to be associated with the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED), but the causal relationship between sex hormones and ED is still uncertain. To prove the association between sex hormones and ED, we carried out a prospective cohort study based on our previous cross-sectional study. We performed a prospective cohort study of 733 Chinese men who participated in Fangchenggang Area Males Health and Examination Survey from September 2009 to December 2009 and were followed for 4 years. Erectile function was estimated by scores of the five-item International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF-5) and relative ratios (RRs) were estimated using the Cox proportional hazards regression model. Data were collected at follow-up visit and included sex hormone measurements, IIEF-5 scores, physical examination, and health questionnaires. Men with the highest tertile of free testosterone (FT) (RR = 0.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.09-0.46) and the lowest tertile of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) (RR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.19-0.73) had decreased risk of ED. In young men (aged 21-40), a decreased risk was observed with the increase of FT and bioavailable testosterone (BT) (adjusted RR and 95% CI: 0.78 [0.67-0.92] and 0.75 [0.62-0.95], respectively). Total testosterone (TT) (RR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.81-0.98) was inversely associated with ED after adjusting for SHBG, while SHBG (RR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.02-1.06) remained positively associated with ED after further adjusting for TT. Men with both low FT and high SHBG had highest ED risk (adjusted RR = 4.61, 95% CI: 1.33-16.0). High FT and BT levels independently predicted a decreased risk of ED in young men. Further studies are urgently needed to clarify the molecular mechanisms of testosterone acting on ED. © 2015 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  16. Is Pornography Use Associated with Sexual Difficulties and Dysfunctions among Younger Heterosexual Men?

    PubMed

    Landripet, Ivan; Štulhofer, Aleksandar

    2015-05-01

    Recent epidemiological studies reported high prevalence rates of erectile dysfunction (ED) among younger heterosexual men (≤40). It has been suggested that this "epidemic" of ED is related to increased pornography use. However, empirical evidence for such association is currently lacking. This study analyzes associations between pornography use and sexual health disturbances among younger heterosexual men using four large-scale online samples from three European countries. The analyses were carried out using a 2011 cross-sectional online study of Croatian, Norwegian, and Portuguese men (Study 1; N = 2,737) and a 2014 cross-sectional online study of Croatian men (Study 2; N = 1,211). Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were used to explore the associations between pornography use and sexual difficulties. In Study 1, erectile difficulties, inability to reach orgasm, and a lack of sexual desire were measured using the Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behavior indicators. In Study 2, ED was measured with the abridged International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Delayed ejaculation and a decrease of sexual desire were assessed with one-item indicators. In Study 1, only the relationship between pornography use and ED among Croatian men was statistically significant (χ(2) [2] = 18.76, P < 0.01). The association was small and inconsistent. Compared with infrequent use of pornography, moderate but not high frequency of pornography use increased the odds of reporting ED (adjusted odds ratio = 0.53, P < 0.01). In Study 2, no significant associations both between either the frequency or the recent dynamics of pornography use and male sexual dysfunctions were observed. We found little evidence of the association between pornography use and male sexual health disturbances. Contrary to raising public concerns, pornography does not seem to be a significant risk factor for younger men's desire, erectile, or orgasmic difficulties. © 2015 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  17. Predictive factors for erectile dysfunction in men with prostate cancer after brachytherapy: Is dose to the penile bulb important?

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Macdonald, A. Graham; Keyes, Mira; Kruk, Alexandra

    2005-09-01

    Purpose: To determine predictive factors for postimplant erectile dysfunction (ED) in a cohort of patients, according to prospectively collected data; specifically, to assess the impact of penile bulb volume and D50 and D95 (dose covering 50% and 95% of the penile bulb volume, respectively) on ED. Methods and Materials: Three hundred forty-two patients were identified who were potent before implant and who had at least 2 years' follow-up. Patient, tumor, treatment, and dosimetric data were collected on all patients. Postimplant ED was defined according to both physician-documented and patient-documented outcome data. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to create multivariablemore » models of predictors for ED at 1, 2, and 3 years after implant. Results: Physician-documented rates of ED were 57%, 48%, and 38% at 1, 2, and 3 years after implant, respectively. Patient-documented rates of ED were 70% and 66% at 1 and 2 years, respectively. Multivariable analyses revealed age and degree of preimplant erectile function to be consistently significant predictors of ED. Use of hormones was significant at the 1-year physician-documented ED endpoint but not thereafter, in keeping with the time course of testosterone recovery. Penile bulb volume, D50, and D95 were not found to be predictive for ED at any time point, in contrast to previous studies. In addition, planning ultrasound target volume, number of needles, and institutional case sequence number were significant predictors of ED at various time points, consistent with a traumatic etiology of ED. Conclusions: We found no evidence to support penile bulb dosimetry as an independent predictive factor for ED after implant, using physician-documented or patient-documented outcomes.« less

  18. Severity of erectile dysfunction is highly correlated with the syntax score in patients undergoing coronariography

    PubMed Central

    Andrade, Weslley Santiago; Oliveira, Paulo; Laydner, Humberto; Ferreira, Eduardo Jose Pereira; Barreto, Jose Augusto Soares

    2016-01-01

    ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the association between the severity of erectile dysfunction (ED) and coronary artery disease (CAD) in men undergoing coronary angiography for angina or acute myocardial infarct (AMI). Material and Methods We studied 132 males who underwent coronary angiography for first time between January and November 2010. ED severity was assessed by the international index of erectile function (IIEF-5) and CAD severity was assessed by the Syntax score. Patients with CAD (cases) and without CAD (controls) had their IIEF-5 compared. In the group with CAD, their IIEF-5 scores were compared to their Syntax score results. Results We identified 86 patients with and 46 without CAD. The IIEF-5 score of the group without CAD (22.6±0.8) was significantly higher than the group with CAD (12.5±0.5; p<0.0001). In patients without ED, the Syntax score average was 6.3±3.5, while those with moderate or severe ED had a mean Syntax score of 39.0±11.1. After adjustment, ED was independently associated to CAD, with an odds ratio of 40.6 (CI 95%, 14.3-115.3, p<0.0001). The accuracy of the logistic model to correctly identify presence or absence of CAD was 87%, with 92% sensitivity and 78% specificity. The average time that ED was present in patients with CAD was 38.8±2.3 months before coronary symptoms, about twice as high as patients without CAD (18.0±5.1 months). Conclusions ED severity is strongly and independently correlated with CAD complexity, as assessed by the Syntax score in patients undergoing coronariography for evaluation of new onset coronary symptoms. PMID:27136478

  19. Why Are Men Satisfied or Dissatisfied with Penile Implants? A Mixed Method Study on Satisfaction with Penile Prosthesis Implantation.

    PubMed

    Carvalheira, Ana; Santana, Rita; Pereira, Nuno M

    2015-12-01

    Studies have demonstrated high levels of satisfaction with penile prosthesis implantation (PPI). However, qualitative research exploring the experience of PPI through men's narratives is scarce. The main goals were to analyze (i) the level of sexual satisfaction (quantitatively), and (ii) the reasons for satisfaction and/or dissatisfaction with PPI (qualitatively). Participants were 47 men with erectile dysfunction who underwent surgery between 2003 and 2012, placed by a single surgeon. Structured telephone interviews were carried out. Satisfaction with PPI was a qualitative and quantitative measure assessed through the following four items: (i) "Would you repeat the PPI surgery?"; (ii) "Would you recommend the PPI surgery?"; (iii) "How satisfied are you with the PP?"; and (iv) "Could you explain the motives of your satisfaction/dissatisfaction?". The majority of men (79%) reported to be satisfied with PPI. Content analysis revealed four main themes for men's satisfaction with the PPI: (i) psychological factors were reported 54 times (n = 54) and included positive emotions, self-esteem, confidence, enhancement of male identity, major live change, and self-image; (ii) improvement of sexual function was reported 54 times (n = 54) and referred to achievement of vaginal penetration, increase of sexual desire, sexual satisfaction, penis size, and improvement of erectile function; (iii) relationship factors were reported 11 times (n = 11) and referred to relationship improvement and the possibility of giving pleasure to the partner; and (iv) improvement in urinary function (n = 3). The level of satisfaction with the implementation of penile prostheses is very high, therefore constituting a treatment for erectile dysfunction with a positive impact on the experience of men at sexual, psychological and relational level. © 2015 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  20. [Fracture of the penis].

    PubMed

    Kogan, M I; Obeĭd, M T; Siziakin, D V

    2007-01-01

    Rupture of the cavernous bodies is a serious penile trauma which may result in severe long-term consequences. Standard suturing of the cavernous body is accompanied with posttraumatic complications: erectile dysfunction and distortion of the penis. The results of examination and treatment of 38 patients with rupture of the tunica albuginea of the penile cavernous bodies are presented. The technique of the cavernous body wound suturing was perfected. Long-term sequences of fracture of the penis in conservative policy and different methods of cavernous body wound suturing are compared.

  1. Penis Disorders

    MedlinePlus

    Problems with the penis can cause pain and affect a man's sexual function and fertility. Penis disorders include Erectile dysfunction - inability to get or ... not go away Peyronie's disease - bending of the penis during an erection due to a hard lump ...

  2. Deer Velvet

    MedlinePlus

    ... activity (as an aphrodisiac), and treat male sexual performance problems (erectile dysfunction, ED). Women use deer velvet to reduce the dose of ... combinations, deer velvet is used to improve athletic performance; to improve ... reproductive disorders including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), ED, and ...

  3. ASCENDE-RT: An Analysis of Treatment-Related Morbidity for a Randomized Trial Comparing a Low-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy Boost with a Dose-Escalated External Beam Boost for High- and Intermediate-Risk Prostate Cancer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rodda, Sree; Tyldesley, Scott; Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia

    Purpose: To report the genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) morbidity and erectile dysfunction in a randomized trial comparing 2 methods of dose escalation for high- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Methods and Materials: ASCENDE-RT (Androgen Suppression Combined with Elective Nodal and Dose Escalated Radiation Therapy) enrolled 398 men, median age 68 years, who were then randomized to either a standard arm that included 12 months of androgen deprivation therapy and pelvic irradiation to 46 Gy followed by a dose-escalated external beam radiation therapy (DE-EBRT) boost to 78 Gy, or an experimental arm that substituted a low-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy (LDR-PB) boost. At clinic visits, investigators recorded GUmore » and GI morbidity and information on urinary continence, catheter use, and erectile function. Exclusion of 15 who received nonprotocol treatment and correction of 14 crossover events left 195 men who actually received a DE-EBRT boost and 188, an LDR-PB boost. Median follow-up was 6.5 years. Results: The LDR-PB boost increased the risk of needing temporary catheterization and/or requiring incontinence pads. At 5 years the cumulative incidence of grade 3 GU events was 18.4% for LDR-PB, versus 5.2% for DE-EBRT (P<.001). Compared with the cumulative incidence, the 5-year prevalence of grade 3 GU morbidity was substantially lower for both arms (8.6% vs 2.2%, P=.058). The 5-year cumulative incidence of grade 3 GI events was 8.1% for LDR-PB, versus 3.2% for DE-EBRT (P=.124). The 5-year prevalence of grade 3 GI toxicity was lower than the cumulative incidence for both arms (1.0% vs 2.2%, respectively). Among men reporting adequate baseline erections, 45% of LDR-PB patients reported similar erectile function at 5 years, versus 37% after DE-EBRT (P=.30). Conclusions: The incidence of acute and late GU morbidity was higher after LDR-PB boost, and there was a nonsignificant trend for worse GI morbidity. No differences in the frequency of erectile dysfunction were observed.« less

  4. Sexual function outcomes following fracture of the penis

    PubMed Central

    Nason, Gregory J.; McGuire, Barry B.; Liddy, Stephen; Looney, Aisling; Lennon, Gerald M.; Mulvin, David W.; Galvin, David J.; Quinlan, David M.

    2013-01-01

    Introduction: Fracture of the penis is a rare urological emergency which occurs as a result of abrupt trauma to an erect penis. There is paucity of data regarding long-term sexual function or erectile potency following fracture of the penis. The aim of this study is to objectively assess the overall sexual function following fracture of the penis. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 21 penile fractures was performed. A voluntary telephone questionnaire was performed to assess long term outcomes using three validated questionnaires-the Erection Hardness Grading Scale, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the Brief Male Sexual Function inventory (BMSFI). Results: The mean age was 33.1 years (range: 19–63). The median follow up was 46 months (range: 3–144). All fractures were a result of sexual misadventure and all were surgically repaired. There were two concomitant urethral injuries. Seventeen patients were contactable. Fourteen patients demonstrated no evidence of erectile dysfunction (ED) (IIEF-5>22), 1 patient reported symptoms of mild ED (IIEF-5, 17–21) and one patient reported mild to moderate ED (IIEF-5, 12–16). No patients reported insufficient erection for penetration (EHGS: 1 or 2). Regarding the overall BMSFI, 13 (83%) patients were mostly satisfied or very satisfied with their sex life within the previous month. Conclusion: In a small surgical series of men with penile fracture managed within a short time frame from presentation, we demonstrate erectile potency is maintained. Long-term overall sexual satisfaction is promising. PMID:24032060

  5. Patients' and urologists' preferences for prostate cancer treatment: a discrete choice experiment

    PubMed Central

    de Bekker-Grob, E W; Bliemer, M C J; Donkers, B; Essink-Bot, M-L; Korfage, I J; Roobol, M J; Bangma, C H; Steyerberg, E W

    2013-01-01

    Background: Patients' preferences are important for shared decision making. Therefore, we investigated patients' and urologists' preferences for treatment alternatives for early prostate cancer (PC). Methods: A discrete choice experiment was conducted among 150 patients who were waiting for their biopsy results, and 150 urologists. Regression analysis was used to determine patients' and urologists' stated preferences using scenarios based on PC treatment modality (radiotherapy, surgery, and active surveillance (AS)), and risks of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Results: The response rate was 110 out of 150 (73%) for patients and 50 out of 150 (33%) for urologists. Risk of urinary incontinence was an important determinant of both patients' and urologists' stated preferences for PC treatment (P<0.05). Treatment modality also influenced patients' stated preferences (P<0.05), whereas the risk of erectile dysfunction due to radiotherapy was mainly important to urologists (P<0.05). Both patients and urologists preferred AS to radical treatment, with the exception of patients with anxious/depressed feelings who preferred radical treatment to AS. Conclusion: Although patients and urologists generally may prefer similar treatments for PC, they showed different trade-offs between various specific treatment aspects. This implies that urologists need to be aware of potential differences compared with the patient's perspective on treatment decisions in shared decision making on PC treatment. PMID:23860533

  6. Association between periodontal flap surgery for periodontitis and vasculogenic erectile dysfunction in Koreans

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    Purpose The National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort and medical checkup data from 2002 to 2013 were used to evaluate the association between periodontal surgery for the treatment of periodontitis (PSTP) and vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (VED). Methods Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to a longitudinal retrospective database to assess the association between PSTP and VED while adjusting for the potential confounding effects of sociodemographic factors (age, household income, insurance status, health status, residence area, and smoking status) and comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, angina pectoris, cerebral infarction, and myocardial infarction). Results Among the 7,148 PSTP within the 268,296 recruited subjects, the overall prevalence of VED in PSTP was 1.43% (n=102). The bivariate analysis showed that VED was significantly related to PSTP (odds ratio [OR], 1.99; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.38–2.06; P<0.001), and this was confirmed in the multivariate analysis after adjusting for sociodemographic factors and comorbidities (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.06–1.58; P=0.002). Conclusions Subjects with a history of periodontal flap surgery had a significantly higher risk of VED, after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Further studies are required to identify the key mechanisms underlying the association between severe periodontal disease and VED. PMID:28462008

  7. What Malaysian women believe about Viagra: a qualitative inquiry.

    PubMed

    Low, W Y; Zulkifli, S N; Wong, Y L; Tan, H M

    2002-03-01

    This paper highlights women's perceptions of sildenafil citrate (Viagra, Pfizer). It is based on a qualitative study on perceptions of erectile dysfunction in the Malaysian multicultural society. Six focus groups were conducted, consisting of 69 women, aged between 40 and 70 years, recruited from the general public and who had given informed consent. The findings revealed that the women were aware of erectile dysfunction and Viagra. Due to their concern about the negative aspects of Viagra, the Chinese and Malay traditional methods of treatment were commonly mentioned. The women from three ethnic groups viewed the possibility of their husband starting to take Viagra with lots of suspicion, mistrust and fear. They would prefer their husband discussing with them the issue of resorting to taking Viagra. The Chinese and Indian women perceived that if a man takes Viagra, it will boost his ego and he will feel more manly. Indian women felt that a man taking Viagra is proof of his love for his wife. The Malay women felt that a man would be ashamed and have a low self-esteem if he were to resort to taking Viagra. Although Viagra is meant for the male, understanding of women's perception of it is beneficial for a couple's sexual relationship.

  8. Pregnancy Outcome of Home Intravaginal Insemination in Couples with Unconsummated Marriage

    PubMed Central

    Banerjee, Kaberi; Singla, Bhavana

    2017-01-01

    Unconsummated marriage are mainly due to vaginismus or erectile dysfunction. They contribute to about 5% of couples in an infertility clinic. Their incidence is increasing in the metropolitan cities because of stressful lifestyles. Many of couples are advised intrauterine insemination as fertility treatment. However, home insemination is a simple, inexpensive and effective way of achieving pregnancy in such couples. We present the first study to document pregnancy rates of artificial home intravaginal insemination in couples with unconsummated marriage. Aim: To assess the pregnancy rates (PR) with intravaginal insemination (IVI) by couples with nonconsummation of marriage. Setting: Infertility outpatient clinic, New Delhi. Design: Retrospective analysis. Material and Methods: 55 couples of unconsummated marriage were evaluated in a period of two years. Group 1 contains 29 patients aged between 20 to 33 years; group 2 includes 14 patients aged between 33 to 36 years and group 3 includes 12 patients aged more than 36 years. Result(s): Unconsummated marriage was caused by vaginismus in 67% of the cases, erectile dysfunction in 22% and premature ejaculation in 11%. Clinical pregnancy rate was 69% in group 1; 43% in group 2 and 25% in group 3 after 6 cycles of AI. Conclusion(s): Intravaginal insemination is a simple, short, economical, effective and painless procedure for conception in nonconsummation of marriage. PMID:29430157

  9. The opiorphin gene (ProL1) and its homologues function in erectile physiology

    PubMed Central

    Tong, Yuehong; Tar, Moses; Melman, Arnold; Davies, Kelvin

    2010-01-01

    OBJECTIVE To determine if ProL1, a member of the opiorphin family of genes, can modulate erectile physiology, as it encodes a peptide which acts as a neutral endopeptidase inhibitor, other examples of which (Vcsa1, hSMR3A) modulate erectile physiology. MATERIALS AND METHODS We cloned members of the opiorphin family of genes into the same mammalian expression backbone (pVAX); 100 μg of these plasmids (pVAX-Vcsa1, -hSMR3A, -hSMR3B and -ProL1) were injected intracorporally into retired breeder rats and the affect on erectile physiology assessed visually, by histology and by measuring the intracavernous pressure (ICP) and blood pressure (BP). As a positive control, rats were treated with pVAX-hSlo (expressing the MaxiK potassium channel) and as a negative control the empty backbone plasmid was injected (pVAX). We also compared the level of expression of ProL1 in corporal tissue of patients not reporting erectile dysfunction (ED), ED associated with diabetes and ED not caused by diabetes. RESULTS Gene transfer of plasmids expressing all members of the opiorphin family had a similar and significant effect on erectile physiology. At the concentration used in these experiments (100 μg) they resulted in higher resting ICP, and histological and visual analysis showed evidence of a priapiclike condition. After electrostimulation of the cavernous nerve, rats had significantly better ICP/BP than the negative control (pVAX). Gene transfer of pVAX-hSlo increased the ICP/BP ratio to a similar extent to the opiorphin homologues, but with no evidence for a priapic-like condition. Corpora cavernosa tissue samples obtained from men with ED, regardless of underlying causes, had significant down-regulation of both hSMR3A and ProL1. CONCLUSION All members of the human opiorphin family of genes can potentially modulate erectile physiology. Both hSMR3 and ProL1 are down-regulated in the corpora of men with ED, and therefore both genes can potentially act as markers of ED. PMID:18410445

  10. Long-Term Effects of a Randomised Controlled Trial Comparing High Protein or High Carbohydrate Weight Loss Diets on Testosterone, SHBG, Erectile and Urinary Function in Overweight and Obese Men

    PubMed Central

    Moran, Lisa J.; Brinkworth, Grant D.; Martin, Sean; Wycherley, Thomas P.; Stuckey, Bronwyn; Lutze, Janna; Clifton, Peter M.; Wittert, Gary A.; Noakes, Manny

    2016-01-01

    Introduction Obesity is associated with reduced testosterone and worsened erectile and sexual function in men. Weight loss improves these outcomes. High protein diets potentially offer anthropometric and metabolic benefits, but their effects on reproductive and sexual outcomes is not known. Aim To examine the long-term effects of weight loss with a higher protein or carbohydrate diet on testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, erectile dysfunction, lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual desire in overweight and obese men. Methods One-hundred and eighteen overweight or obese men (body mass index 27–40 kg/m2, age 20–65 years) were randomly assigned to an energy restricted higher protein low fat (35% protein, 40% carbohydrate, 25% fat; n = 57) or higher carbohydrate low fat diet (17% protein, 58% carbohydrate, 25% fat, n = 61) diet for 52 weeks (12 weeks weight loss, 40 weeks weight maintenance). Primary outcomes were serum total testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin and calculated free testosterone. Secondary outcomes were erectile function as assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) (total score and erectile function domain), lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual desire. Results Total testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin and free testosterone increased (P<0.001) and the total IIEF increased (P = 0.017) with no differences between diets (P≥0.244). Increases in testosterone (P = 0.037) and sex hormone binding globulin (P<0.001) and improvements in the total IIEF (P = 0.041) occurred from weeks 0–12 with a further increase in testosterone from week 12–52 (P = 0.002). Increases in free testosterone occurred from week 12–52 (p = 0.002). The IIEF erectile functon domain, lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual desire did not change in either group (P≥0.126). Conclusions In overweight and obese men, weight loss with both high protein and carbohydrate diets improve testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin and overall sexual function. Trial Registration Anzctr.org.au ACTRN12606000002583 PMID:27584019

  11. The Impact of 5α-Reductase Inhibitor Use for Male Pattern Hair Loss on Men's Health.

    PubMed

    Said, Mohammed A; Mehta, Akanksha

    2018-06-16

    Male pattern hair loss, mediated by dihydrotestosterone, is a common hair loss disorder, affecting over 50% of men over the age of 50. The 5-α reductase inhibitors, finasteride and dutasteride, are Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs for the treatment of this disorder. Several recent studies have reported adverse sexual and spermatogenic events among young men using 5-α reductase inhibitors, such as erectile dysfunction, decreased ejaculate volume, decreased libido, and infertility. In this review, we summarize and analyze the literature regarding the efficacy and safety of these medications, with an overall focus on men's health. Finasteride for the treatment of male pattern hair loss was considered safe according to many previous clinical trials. However, these trials have been recently criticized for inadequate safety reporting. Comprehensive review of the current literature reveals that there is a disproportionately high number of men with 5-α reductase inhibitor-associated sexual dysfunction and infertility. Although uncommon, the use of 5-α reductase inhibitors is associated with serious and persistent sexual and reproductive side effects, such as erectile dysfunction, decreased ejaculate volume, decreased libido, and infertility.

  12. Prediction of Erectile Function Following Treatment for Prostate Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Alemozaffar, Mehrdad; Regan, Meredith M.; Cooperberg, Matthew R.; Wei, John T.; Michalski, Jeff M.; Sandler, Howard M.; Hembroff, Larry; Sadetsky, Natalia; Saigal, Christopher S.; Litwin, Mark S.; Klein, Eric; Kibel, Adam S.; Hamstra, Daniel A.; Pisters, Louis L.; Kuban, Deborah A.; Kaplan, Irving D.; Wood, David P.; Ciezki, Jay; Dunn, Rodney L.; Carroll, Peter R.; Sanda, Martin G.

    2013-01-01

    Context Sexual function is the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) domain most commonly impaired after prostate cancer treatment; however, validated tools to enable personalized prediction of erectile dysfunction after prostate cancer treatment are lacking. Objective To predict long-term erectile function following prostate cancer treatment based on individual patient and treatment characteristics. Design Pretreatment patient characteristics, sexual HRQOL, and treatment details measured in a longitudinal academic multicenter cohort (Prostate Cancer Outcomes and Satisfaction With Treatment Quality Assessment; enrolled from 2003 through 2006), were used to develop models predicting erectile function 2 years after treatment. A community-based cohort (community-based Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor [CaPSURE]; enrolled 1995 through 2007) externally validated model performance. Patients in US academic and community-based practices whose HRQOL was measured pretreatment (N = 1201) underwent follow-up after prostatectomy, external radiotherapy, or brachytherapy for prostate cancer. Sexual outcomes among men completing 2 years’ follow-up (n = 1027) were used to develop models predicting erectile function that were externally validated among 1913 patients in a community-based cohort. Main Outcome Measures Patient-reported functional erections suitable for intercourse 2 years following prostate cancer treatment. Results Two years after prostate cancer treatment, 368 (37% [95% CI, 34%–40%]) of all patients and 335 (48% [95% CI, 45%–52%]) of those with functional erections prior to treatment reported functional erections; 531 (53% [95% CI, 50%–56%]) of patients without penile prostheses reported use of medications or other devices for erectile dysfunction. Pretreatment sexual HRQOL score, age, serum prostate-specific antigen level, race/ethnicity, body mass index, and intended treatment details were associated with functional erections 2 years after treatment. Multivariable logistic regression models predicting erectile function estimated 2-year function probabilities from as low as 10% or less to as high as 70% or greater depending on the individual’s pretreatment patient characteristics and treatment details. The models performed well in predicting erections in external validation among CaPSURE cohort patients (areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.77 [95% CI, 0.74–0.80] for prostatectomy; 0.87 [95% CI, 0.80–0.94] for external radiotherapy; and 0.90 [95% CI, 0.85–0.95] for brachytherapy). Conclusion Stratification by pretreatment patient characteristics and treatment details enables prediction of erectile function 2 years after prostatectomy, external radiotherapy, or brachytherapy for prostate cancer. PMID:21934053

  13. Different patterns of sexual dysfunctions associated with psychiatric disorders and psychopharmacological treatment. Results of an investigation by semistructured interview of schizophrenic and neurotic patients and methadone-substituted opiate addicts.

    PubMed

    Teusch, L; Scherbaum, N; Böhme, H; Bender, S; Eschmann-Mehl, G; Gastpar, M

    1995-05-01

    Little is known about sexual dysfunctions associated with psychiatric disorders and psychopharmacological treatment. In the present study schizophrenic patients (n = 45, mostly under neuroleptic treatment), neurotic patients (n = 50, mostly treated without medication), methadone-substituted opiate addicts (n = 37), and normal controls (n = 41) were included. They were interviewed with the aid of a sex-differentiated semistructured questionnaire on sexual function. All the methadone-substituted opiate addicts and nearly all the schizophrenic patients suffered from dysfunctions in at least one criterion. The three clinical groups differed significantly from the controls in sexual interest, emotional arousal, physiological arousal (erectile function/vaginal lubrication), performance (ejaculatory function/vaginism, dyspareunia), and orgasm satisfaction. Characteristic patterns of dysfunction were found in the male patients. The schizophrenic patients had significantly more dysfunctions of interest, physiological arousal, performance, and orgasm than the controls. Emotional arousal, erectile and ejaculatory functions, and orgasm satisfaction were impaired more frequently in the male schizophrenics than in the neurotic patients. Reduced sexual interest, emotional arousal, and orgasm satisfaction were reported more frequently by the methadone-substituted opiate addicts than by the neurotic men. Emotional arousal was even more frequently reduced than in the schizophrenic men. There was no correlation between sexual dysfunction and particular neuroleptics or neuroleptic or methadone dosage. The results are compared with the literature and suggestions made for further investigations.

  14. Hidden Risks of Erectile Dysfunction "Treatments" Sold Online

    MedlinePlus

    ... screen and stop these shipments from entering U.S. commerce," says Huascar Batista, team leader of OOC's Import- ... Free Rhino V Max V.Max True Man Energy Max HS Joy of Love NaturalUp Blue Steel ...

  15. Erectile Dysfunction: MedlinePlus Health Topic

    MedlinePlus

    ... Men's Health (Hormone Health Network) Also in Spanish Sex and the Man With Cancer (American Cancer Society) Also in Spanish Specifics Bent Penis (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research) Videos and Tutorials Simultaneous Inflatable Penile Prosthesis (IPP) and ...

  16. Autonomic Nervous System Disorders

    MedlinePlus

    Your autonomic nervous system is the part of your nervous system that controls involuntary actions, such as the beating of your heart ... breathing and swallowing Erectile dysfunction in men Autonomic nervous system disorders can occur alone or as the result ...

  17. Erectile Dysfunction

    MedlinePlus

    ... help for anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns. By Mayo Clinic Staff . Mayo Clinic Footer Legal Conditions and Terms Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy ...

  18. Demographic and Clinical Correlates of Patient-Reported Improvement in Sex Drive, Erectile Function, and Energy With Testosterone Solution 2.

    PubMed

    Wu, Frederick; Zitzmann, Michael; Heiselman, Darell; Donatucci, Craig; Knorr, Jack; Patel, Ankur B; Kinchen, Kraig

    2016-08-01

    Evidence from well-designed studies documenting the benefit of testosterone replacement therapy as a function of patient demographic and clinical characteristics is lacking. To determine demographic and clinical predictors of treatment outcomes in hypogonadal men with low sex drive, low energy, and/or erectile dysfunction. Post hoc analysis of a randomized, multicenter, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, 16-week study of 715 hypogonadal men (mean age = 55.3 years, age range = 19-92 years) presenting with low sex drive and/or low energy who received placebo or testosterone solution 2% for 12 weeks. Two levels defined patient-reported improvement (PRI) in sex drive or energy: level 1 was at least "a little better" and level 2 was at least "much better" in energy or sex drive on the Patient Global Impression of Improvement at study end point. PRI in erectile function was stratified by erectile dysfunction severity at baseline as measured by the erectile function domain of the International Index for Erectile Function: mild at baseline (change of 2), moderate at baseline (change of 5), and severe at baseline (change of 7). Associations of demographic and clinical characteristics with PRI were calculated with stepwise forward multiple logistic regression analysis. Odds ratios represented the likelihood of PRI in symptoms among variable categories. Higher levels of end-point testosterone were associated with higher rates of PRI (at levels 1 and 2) in sex drive and energy (P < .001 for the two comparisons). Lower baseline testosterone levels were associated with higher rates of level 1 PRI in sex drive (P = .028); and classic hypogonadism (vs non-classic hypogonadism) was associated with higher rates of level 2 PRI in sex drive (P = .005) and energy (P = .006). When assessing the potential for improvements in men with testosterone deficiency using patient-reported outcome questionnaires, possible predictors of treatment outcomes to consider include the etiology of hypogonadism and testosterone levels (baseline and end point). Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  19. Amelioration of erectile dysfunction following a switch from carbamazepine to oxcarbazepine: recent clinical experience.

    PubMed

    Sachdeo, Rajesh; Sathyan, Revathi R

    2005-07-01

    Oxcarbazepine is an antiepileptic drug (AED) indicated for use as monotherapy and add-on therapy in adults and children 4 years of age and older. Despite being structurally related to carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine differs substantially in its pharmacokinetic and safety profile; oxcarbazepine has a much lower risk of pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions than carbamazepine. Carbamazepine has also been shown to induce the hepatic synthesis of sex hormone-binding globulin, thus reducing free serum testosterone levels and possibly causing erectile dysfunction (ED) in some men; these effects have not been observed with oxcarbazepine. This paper provides a discussion of recent clinical experience with men who presented in private clinical practice with complaints of ED while being treated with carbamazepine for seizure disorders. The four illustrative case studies presented in this report suggest that switching AED treatment from carbamazepine to oxcarbazepine in men with epilepsy can reduce the ED side effects observed with carbamazepine.

  20. The devil is in the details: an analysis of the subtleties between phosphodiesterase inhibitors for erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Smith-Harrison, L I; Patel, Abhishek; Smith, Ryan P

    2016-04-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual disorder with numerous etiologies involving multiple organ systems that leads to significant distress and decreased quality of life for the affected men. Fortunately, there are several modalities and interventions for treating ED. Oral medications, intra-urethral compounds, intracorporeal injections, vacuum-assist devices and surgically implanted prostheses are all part of the treatment algorithm. One of the first-lines and certainly the most widely used options for treating ED is the family of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5I). The introduction of these medications in the late 1990s revolutionized the field of sexual medicine. Currently there are no guidelines and minimal literature to help providers choose among drugs in this class. This review will address differences in efficacy and side effects between various members of the oral selective phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor class of drugs.

  1. Pharmacologic therapy for erectile dysfunction and its interaction with the cardiovascular system.

    PubMed

    Ioakeimidis, Nikolaos; Kostis, John B

    2014-01-01

    Phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes are widely distributed throughout the body, having numerous effects and functions. The PDE type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are widely used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Recent, intense preclinical and clinical research with PDE5 inhibitors has shed light on new mechanisms and has revealed a number of pleiotropic effects on the cardiovascular (CV) system. To date, PDE5 inhibition has been shown to be effective for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, and both sildenafil and tadalafil are approved for this indication. However, current or future PDE5 inhibitors have the potential of becoming clinically useful in a variety of CV conditions such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, and hypertension. The present review discusses recent findings regarding pharmacologic treatment of ED and its interaction with the CV system and highlights current and future clinical applications beyond ED.

  2. Evolution of penile prosthetic devices

    PubMed Central

    Burnett, Arthur L.

    2015-01-01

    Penile implant usage dates to the 16th century yet penile implants to treat erectile dysfunction did not occur until nearly four centuries later. The modern era of penile implants has progressed rapidly over the past 50 years as physicians' knowledge of effective materials for penile prostheses and surgical techniques has improved. Herein, we describe the history of penile prosthetics and the constant quest to improve the technology. Elements of the design from the first inflatable penile prosthesis by Scott and colleagues and the Small-Carrion malleable penile prosthesis are still found in present iterations of these devices. While there have been significant improvements in penile prosthesis design, the promise of an ideal prosthetic device remains elusive. As other erectile dysfunction therapies emerge, penile prostheses will have to continue to demonstrate a competitive advantage. A particular strength of penile prostheses is their efficacy regardless of etiology, thus allowing treatment of even the most refractory cases. PMID:25763121

  3. Evolution of penile prosthetic devices.

    PubMed

    Le, Brian; Burnett, Arthur L

    2015-03-01

    Penile implant usage dates to the 16th century yet penile implants to treat erectile dysfunction did not occur until nearly four centuries later. The modern era of penile implants has progressed rapidly over the past 50 years as physicians' knowledge of effective materials for penile prostheses and surgical techniques has improved. Herein, we describe the history of penile prosthetics and the constant quest to improve the technology. Elements of the design from the first inflatable penile prosthesis by Scott and colleagues and the Small-Carrion malleable penile prosthesis are still found in present iterations of these devices. While there have been significant improvements in penile prosthesis design, the promise of an ideal prosthetic device remains elusive. As other erectile dysfunction therapies emerge, penile prostheses will have to continue to demonstrate a competitive advantage. A particular strength of penile prostheses is their efficacy regardless of etiology, thus allowing treatment of even the most refractory cases.

  4. The effect of sildenafil citrate (Viagra) on cerebral blood flow in patients with cerebrovascular risk factors.

    PubMed

    Lorberboym, M; Mena, I; Wainstein, J; Boaz, M; Lampl, Y

    2010-06-01

    Sildenafil citrate is widely used for erectile dysfunction. The present study examined the short-term effects of sildenafil administration in individuals with cerebrovascular risk factors, including patients with a history of stroke. Twenty-five consecutive male patients with erectile dysfunction and vascular risk factors were included in the study. A perfusion brain SPECT study was performed at baseline and 1 h after the oral administration of sildenafil. Associations between any of the risk factors and the perfusion scores were not detected, with the exception of stroke. Stroke patients showed significantly more areas with diminished perfusion after sildenafil administration compared to baseline. In patients with diabetes or hypertension, a dose of 50 mg sildenafil does not appear to produce detrimental effects on cerebral blood flow. However, patients with a history of stroke may be at increased risk of hemodynamic impairment after the use of sildenafil.

  5. Understanding the cellular basis and pathophysiology of Peyronie’s disease to optimize treatment for erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Alzubaidi, Raidh

    2017-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that significantly impacts a man’s physical and psychological well-being. ED is often associated with Peyronie’s disease (PD), which is an abnormal curvature of the penis. Delayed treatment of or surgical invention for PD often results in ED and therefore unsatisfied patients. The pathophysiology of PD is incompletely understood, but has been studied extensively and based on our current understanding of PD physiology, many medical treatment options have been proposed. In this paper, we will review what is known about the pathophysiology of PD and the medical treatment options that have been trialed as a result. More investigations in regards to the basic science of PD need to be carried out in order to elucidate the exact mechanisms of the fibrosis, and propose new, more successful treatment options which should be implemented prior to the onset of ED. PMID:28217450

  6. Erectile dysfunction in urethral stricture and pelvic fracture urethral injury patients: diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.

    PubMed

    Sangkum, P; Levy, J; Yafi, F A; Hellstrom, W J G

    2015-05-01

    Urethral stricture disease, pelvic fracture urethral injury (PFUI), and their various treatment options are associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). The etiology of urethral stricture disease is multifactorial and includes trauma, inflammatory, and iatrogenic causes. Posterior urethral injuries are commonly associated with pelvic fractures. There is a spectrum in the severity of both conditions and this directly impacts the treatment options offered by the surgeon. Many published studies focus on the treatment outcomes and the relatively high recurrence rates after surgical repair. This communication reviews the current knowledge of the association between ED and urethral stricture disease, as well as PFUI. The incidence, pathophysiology, and clinical ramifications of both conditions on sexual function are discussed. The treatment options for ED in those patients are reviewed and summarized. © 2015 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

  7. Efficacy and Safety of Tadalafil 5 mg Once Daily for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction After Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: A 2-Year Follow-Up.

    PubMed

    Kim, Soodong; Sung, Gyung Tak

    2018-03-27

    Although nerve-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (NS-RALP) is performed, a large number of patients still experience erectile dysfunction (ED) after surgery. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tadalafil 5 mg once daily (OaD) in ED treatment over 2 years and investigate the cause of vascular ED after NS-RARP. We retrospectively evaluated 95 men who underwent NS-RARP and had a penile rehabilitation treatment with tadalafil 5 mg OaD. They were classified into 3 groups: tadalafil 5 mg OaD for 2 years (group I), tadalafil 5 mg OaD for 1 year (group II), and no tadalafil (group III). All patients in group I underwent penile color duplex ultrasound to evaluate the cause of vascular ED. Patients were surveyed using the abridged 5-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Statistically significant improvements were observed in group I for all IIEF-5 domain scores (P = .000). There was no statistically significant difference in recovery of erectile function (EF) the 2-year follow-up between groups I and II. Sub-analysis based on NS status showed no difference in recovery of EF. However, group I showed better trends in EF improvement. Those with venogenic ED had poor responses compared with those with arteriogenic ED or unremarkable findings with tadalafil 5-mg OaD treatment (14.2% vs 55.0% vs 53.3%). The overall side effects included hot flushing in 9.5%, headache in 7.1%, and dizziness in 2.3% of patients. Long-term usage of tadalafil 5 mg OaD after RARP can be an effective option for penile rehabilitation. The present study is a retrospective study with a relatively small sample. Although the responses of patients with venogenic ED were limited compared with those with arteriogenic ED, tadalafil 5-mg OaD treatment was well tolerated and significantly improved EF up to 2 years after NS-RARP. Kim S, Sung GT. Efficacy and Safety of Tadalafil 5 mg Once Daily for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction After Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: A 2-Year Follow-Up. Sex Med 2018;X:XXX-XXX. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Effects of ageing and streptozotocin-induced diabetes on connexin43 and P2 purinoceptor expression in the rat corpora cavernosa and urinary bladder.

    PubMed

    Suadicani, Sylvia O; Urban-Maldonado, Marcia; Tar, Moses T; Melman, Arnold; Spray, David C

    2009-06-01

    To investigate whether ageing and diabetes alter the expression of the gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) and of particular purinoceptor (P2R) subtypes in the corpus cavernosum and urinary bladder, and determine whether changes in expression of these proteins correlate with development of erectile and bladder dysfunction in diabetic and ageing rats. Erectile and bladder function of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic, insulin-treated and age-matched control Fischer-344 rats were evaluated 2, 4 and 8 months after diabetes induction by in vivo cystometry and cavernosometry. Corporal and bladder tissue were then isolated at each of these sample times and protein expression levels of Cx43 and of various P2R subtypes were determined by Western blotting. In the corpora of control rats ageing was accompanied by a significant decrease in Cx43 and P2X(1)R, and increase in P2X(7)R expression. There was decreased Cx43 and increased P2Y(4)R expression in the ageing control rat bladder. There was a significant negative correlation between erectile capacity and P2X(1)R expression levels, and a positive correlation between bladder spontaneous activity and P2Y(4)R expression levels. There was already development of erectile dysfunction and bladder overactivity at 2 months after inducing diabetes, the earliest sample measured in the study. The development of these urogenital complications was accompanied by significant decreases in Cx43, P2Y(2)R, P2X(4)R and increase in P2X(1)R expression in the corpora, and by a doubling in Cx43 and P2Y(2)R, and significant increase in P2Y(4)R expression in the bladder. Changes in Cx43 and P2R expression were largely prevented by insulin therapy. Ageing and diabetes mellitus markedly altered the expression of the gap junction protein Cx43 and of particular P2R subtypes in the rat penile corpora and urinary bladder. These changes in Cx43 and P2R expression provide the molecular substrate for altered gap junction and purinergic signalling in these tissues, and thus probably contribute to the early development of erectile dysfunction and higher detrusor activity in ageing and in diabetic rats.

  9. Effect of Low-Energy Linear Shockwave Therapy on Erectile Dysfunction-A Double-Blinded, Sham-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial.

    PubMed

    Fojecki, Grzegorz L; Tiessen, Stefan; Osther, Palle J S

    2017-01-01

    Previous studies have shown that focal low-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) can have a positive effect in men with erectile dysfunction (ED). Linear Li-ESWT (LLi-ESWT) for ED has not been previously assessed in a randomized trial. To evaluate the treatment outcome of LLi-ESWT for ED. Men with ED (n = 126) and a score lower than 25 points on the International Index of Erectile Function erectile function domain (IIEF-EF) were included. Subjects were allocated to receive LLi-ESWT once a week for 5 weeks or sham treatment once a week for 5 weeks. After a 4-week break, the two groups received active treatment once a week for 5 weeks. Subjects completed the IIEF, Erection Hardness Scale (EHS), Sexual Quality of Life-Men, and the Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction at baseline, after 9 weeks, and after 18 weeks. The primary outcome measurement was an increase of at least five points on the IIEF-EF score. The secondary outcome measurement was an increased EHS score to at least 3 in men with a score no higher than 2 at baseline. Data were analyzed by linear and logistic regression. Mean IIEF-EF scores were 11.5 at baseline (95% CI = 9.8-13.2), 13.0 after five sessions (95% CI = 11.0-15.0), and 12.6 after 10 sessions (95% CI = 11.0-14.2) in the sham group and correspondingly 10.9 (95% CI = 9.1-12.7), 13.1 (95% CI = 9.3-13.4), and 11.8 (95% CI = 10.1-13.4) in the ESWT group. Success rates based on IIEF-EF score were 38.3% in the sham group and 37.9% in the ESWT group (odds ratio = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.45-2.02, P = .902). Success rates based on EHS score were 6.7% in the sham group and 3.5% in the ESWT group (odds ratio = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.08-2.61, P = .369). A limitation of this study is that device settings (number of shockwaves and penetration depth) were estimated based on an existing trial on focused ESWT. No clinically relevant effect of LLi-ESWT on ED was found. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Effects of low-energy shockwave therapy on the erectile function and tissue of a diabetic rat model.

    PubMed

    Qiu, Xuefeng; Lin, Guiting; Xin, Zhongcheng; Ferretti, Ludovic; Zhang, Haiyang; Lue, Tom F; Lin, Ching-Shwun

    2013-03-01

    Introduction.  Low-energy shockwave therapy (LESWT) has been shown to improve erectile function in patients suffering from diabetes mellitus (DM)-associated erectile dysfunction (ED). However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Aim.  The aim of this study is to investigate whether LESWT can ameliorate DM-associated ED in a rat model and examine the associated changes in the erectile tissues. Methods.  Newborn male rats were intraperitoneally injected with 5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine (EdU; 50 mg/kg) for the purpose of tracking endogenous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Eight weeks later, eight of these rats were randomly chosen to serve as normal control (N group). The remaining rats were injected intraperitoneally with 60 mg/kg of streptozotocin (STZ) to induce DM. Eight of these rats were randomly chosen to serve as DM control (DM group), whereas another eight rats were subject to shockwave (SW) treatment (DM+SW group). Each rat in the DM+SW group received 300 shocks at energy level of 0.1 mJ/mm(2) and frequency of 120/minute. This procedure was repeated three times a week for 2 weeks. Another 2 weeks later, all 24 rats were evaluated for erectile function by intracavernous pressure (ICP) measurement. Afterward, their penile tissues were examined by histology. Main Outcome Measures.  Erectile function was measured by ICP. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)-positive nerves and the endothelium were examined by immunofluorescence staining. Smooth muscle and MSCs were examined by phalloidin and EdU staining, respectively. Results.  STZ treatment caused a significant decrease in erectile function and in the number of nNOS-positive nerves and in endothelial and smooth muscle contents. These DM-associated deficits were all partially but significantly reversed by LESWT. MSCs (EdU-positive cells) were significantly more numerous in DM+SW than in DM rats. Conclusion.  LESWT can partially ameliorate DM-associated ED by promoting regeneration of nNOS-positive nerves, endothelium, and smooth muscle in the penis. These beneficial effects appear to be mediated by recruitment of endogenous MSCs. Qiu X, Lin G, Xin Z, Ferretti L, Zhang H, Lue TF, and Lin C-S. Effects of low-energy shockwave therapy on the erectile function and tissue of a diabetic rat model. J Sex Med 2013;10:738-746. © 2012 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  11. Validation of Portuguese version of Quality of Erection Questionnaire (QEQ) and comparison to International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and RAND 36-Item Health Survey

    PubMed Central

    Reis, Ana Luiza; Reis, Leonardo Oliveira; Saade, Ricardo Destro; Santos, Carlos Alberto; de Lima, Marcelo Lopes; Fregonesi, Adriano

    2015-01-01

    Purpose To validate the Quality of Erection Questionnaire (QEQ) considering Brazilian social-cultural aspects. Materials and Methods To determine equivalence between the Portuguese and the English QEQ versions, the Portuguese version was back-translated by two professors who are native English speakers. After language equivalence had been determined, urologists considered the QEQ Portuguese version suitable. Men with self-reported erectile dysfunction (ED) and infertile men who had a stable sexual relationship for at least 6 months were invited to answer the QEQ, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and the RAND 36-Item Health Survey (RAND-36). The questionnaires were presented together and answered without help in a private room. Internal consistency (Cronbach’s α), test-retest reliability (Spearman), convergent validity (Spearman correlation) coefficients and known-groups validity (the ability of the QEQ Portuguese version to differentiate erectile dysfunction severity groups) were assessed. Results We recruited 197 men (167 ED patients and 30 non-ED patients), mean age of 53.3 and median of 55.5 years (23-82 years). The Portuguese version of the QEQ had high internal consistency (Cronbach α=0.93), high stability between test and retest (ICC 0.83, with IC 95%: 0.76-0.88, p<0.001) and Spearman correlation coefficient r=0.82 (p<0.001), which demonstrated the high correlation between the QEQ and IIEF results. The correlations between the QEQ and RAND-36 were significantly low in ED (r=0.20, p=0.01) and non-ED patients (r=0.37, p=0.04). Conclusion The QEQ Portuguese version presented good psychometric properties and high convergent validity in relation to IIEF. The low correlations between the QEQ and the RAND-36, as well as between the IIEF and the RAND-36 indicated IIEF and QEQ specificity, which may have resulted from the patients’ psychological adaptations that minimized the impact of ED on Quality of Life (QoL) and reestablished the well-being feeling. PMID:25928522

  12. Effect of sildenafil citrate on the male sexual experience assessed with the Sexual Experience Questionnaire: a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with open-label extension.

    PubMed

    Jones, LeRoy A; Klimberg, Ira W; McMurray, James G; Padula, Rebecca; Tseng, Li-Jung; Stecher, Vera J

    2008-08-01

    The Sexual Experience Questionnaire (SEX-Q) enables quick and easy assessment of functional, emotional, and satisfaction-related aspects of the sexual experience in men with erectile dysfunction (ED). To assess correlations between improvement on the SEX-Q and outcomes on other validated questionnaires. METHODS. Men with ED (score < or =25 on the Erectile Function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF]) who had used less than or equal to six doses of any phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor (none within 6 months) were randomized to 10 weeks of double-blind, placebo-controlled (DBPC) flexible-dose sildenafil citrate (50 or 100 mg, as needed), followed by 6 weeks of open-label (OL) sildenafil. SEX-Q, IIEF, Quality of Erection Questionnaire (QEQ), Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) Questionnaire, Erection Hardness Score (EHS), successful intercourse attempts (SIAs), Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS), and global efficacy questions (GEQs). Compared with the placebo group (N = 105), the sildenafil group (N = 104) at DBPC end of treatment (EOT) had significantly more improvement (P < 0.05) on all SEX-Q, IIEF (except the Sexual Desire domain), QEQ, and SEAR outcomes, more frequent SIAs and EHS 3 (hard enough for penetration but not completely hard) or EHS 4 (completely hard) erections (odds ratio [OR], 2.52 and 3.46, respectively), EHS 4 erections four times as often (OR, 6.41), more men satisfied with treatment (EDITS; OR, 2.6), approximately twice as many men with improved erections (GEQ1; OR, 5.8) and ability to have sexual intercourse (GEQ2; OR, 5.4), and GEQ3 scores that indicated better sex (P < 0.0001). SEX-Q score improvements correlated positively with all other outcomes. At OL EOT, most outcomes were >60% (and approximately half were > or =80%) of the maximum positive result. SEX-Q change scores correlate with several other functional, emotional, and satisfaction-related outcomes in men treated with sildenafil for ED, allowing a simple and focused evaluation of the sexual experience.

  13. An animal model to study lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile dysfunction: the hyperlipidaemic rat.

    PubMed

    Rahman, Nadeem U; Phonsombat, Surat; Bochinski, Derek; Carrion, Rafael E; Nunes, Lora; Lue, Tom F

    2007-09-01

    To present evidence that rats fed a high-fat diet could serve as a useful animal model to study both lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and erectile dysfunction (ED), as recent epidemiological studies have shown a strong association between LUTS and ED but the physiological basis behind this relationship is unknown. In all, 24 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two groups: nine controls were fed a 'normal' diet and 15 were fed a high-fat diet (hyperlipidaemic rats). After 6 months all the rats had bladder and erectile functions evaluated using awake cystometry and cavernosal nerve electrostimulation, respectively. After the functional studies were completed, the penis, prostate and bladder were collected for immunohistochemical analysis. The hyperlipidaemic rats had significantly higher serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein than the controls (P < 0.05). The hyperlipidaemic rats also had significantly worse erectile function (P = 0.004) and developed more bladder overactivity (P = 0.004) than the controls. In the hyperlipidaemic rats there was significant muscle hypertrophy in the peri-urethral lobe of the prostate (P < 0.001) and in the bladder (P < 0.05). There was also greater P2X(1) (purinoceptor) staining as well as other molecular changes in the bladder of the hyperlipidaemic rats. In this hyperlipidaemic rat model three abnormalities were consistently detected: prostatic enlargement, bladder overactivity, and ED. This rat model could be a useful research tool for understanding the common causes of LUTS and ED, as well as facilitating the development of preventive measures and better therapies to treat both conditions.

  14. A meta-regression evaluating the effectiveness and prognostic factors of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Yuan, Jin-Qiu; Mao, Chen; Yang, Zu-Yao; Fu, Xiao-Hong; Wong, Samuel Y; Tang, Jin-Ling

    2016-01-01

    The effectiveness of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is) for erectile dysfunction (ED) varies considerably among trials, but available studies investigating the factors that affect the effectiveness are few and findings are not consistent. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE to identify randomized controlled trials comparing PDE5-Is with placebo for the treatment of ED. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed by the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. The associations between prespecified study-level factors and effectiveness were tested by a random effects meta-regression model. This study included 93 trials with 26 139 patients. When all PDE5-Is were grouped together, Caucasian ethnicity was associated with 15.636% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.858% to 32.579%) increase in risk ratio (RR) for Global Assessment Questionnaire question-1 (GAQ-1), and 1.473 (95% CI: 0.406 to 2.338) score increase in mean difference (MD) for posttreatment International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function domain score (IIEF-EF), compared to Asian ethnicity. A one-score increase in baseline IIEF-EF was associated with −5.635% (95% CI: −9.120% to −2.017%) reduction in RR for GAQ-1, and −0.229 (95% CI: −0.425 to −0.042) score decrease in MD for posttreatment IIEF-EF. In conclusion, PDE5-Is are more effective in Caucasians than Asians, and in patients with more severe ED. PMID:25966626

  15. [Cardiovascular risk factors associated with erectile dysfunction in the region of Dakar, Senegal].

    PubMed

    Leye, M M M; Faye, A; Ka, O; Seck, I; Tal Dia, A

    2016-06-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often a reason for consultation revealing the existence of cardiovascular risk factors. The objective of this study was to determine the cardiovascular risk factors associated with ED in the Dakar region. A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from March 18 to June 2, 2013. The study population was composed of married male subjects who sought care at the Ouakam Geriatric and Gerontology Center and the Grand Yoff General Hospital. Erectile function was assessed with the International Index of Erectile Function using the simplified five-item questionnaire (IIEF 5). R 2.2.9 software was used for the logistic regression multivariate analysis. Associations were measured using the adjusted odds ratio (ORaj) with confidence intervals. A total of 253 men were surveyed during this period. Average age was 16.7±58.2 years, range 24-90 years; 47% were aged under 60 years. ED was diagnosed in 110 patients (43.5%). ED was considered mild (33.6%), moderate (5.5%) or severe (4.3%). ED was more severe in patients older than 60 years. Cardiovascular risk factors associated with ED were diabetes ORaj=2.4 (1.24-4.68), sedentary lifestyle ORaj=3.08 (1.69-5.61), and hypertension ORaj=2.53 (1.33-4.81). These results should prompt health care providers to target patients with diabetes, hypertension and sedentary lifestyle for systematic ED screening as a routine practice in order to ensure early and effective care. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  16. Comprehensive assessment of cavernosography with 320-row dynamic volume CT versus conventional cavernosography in erectile dysfunction patients caused by venous leakage

    PubMed Central

    Pan, Yu-Ning; Tang, Yi-Fan; Zhang, Jie; Wang, Guo-Yao; Huang, Qiu-Li

    2017-01-01

    The present study aims to investigate and compare the diagnostic and prognostic value of cavernosography with 320-row dynamic volume computed tomography (DVCT) versus conventional cavernosography in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) caused by venous leakage. A total of 174 patients diagnosed with ED were enrolled and received cavernosography with 320-row DVCT (DVCT group) and conventional cavernosography scans (control group) respectively. The diagnosis, complications, and prognosis of patients were evaluated. The DVCT group provided high-resolution images with less processing and testing time, as well as lowered radiological agent and contrast agent compared with the control group. In the DVCT group, 89 patients who were diagnosed with venous ED had six various venous leakage, namely superficial venous leakage, profundus venous leakage, the mixed type, cavernosal venous leakage, crural venous leakage, and also venous leakage between the penis and urethra cavernosum (9, 21, 32, 6, 18, and 3 cases respectively). Similarly, 74 patients out of the 81 who suffered from venous ED were classified to have superficial venous leakage (11), profundus venous leakage (14), the mixed type venous leakage (26), and middle venous leakage (23). Six out of 25 patients in the DVCT group, had improvements in ED while the remaining 19 achieved full erectile function recovery with no penile fibrosis and erectile pain. Cavernosography with 320-row DVCT is a reliable system that can be used to diagnose ED caused by venous leakage. This is especially useful in accurately determining the type of venous and allows for a better prognosis and direction of treatment. PMID:28424371

  17. Sildenafil citrate improves self-esteem, confidence, and relationships in men with erectile dysfunction: Results from an international, multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Althof, Stanley E; O'leary, Michael P; Cappelleri, Joseph C; Hvidsten, Kyle; Stecher, Vera J; Glina, Sidney; King, Rosie; Siegel, Richard L

    2006-05-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) can significantly impact a man's relationships and well-being. We assessed changes in self-esteem, confidence, sexual relationship satisfaction, and overall relationship satisfaction in men with ED using the validated Self-Esteem And Relationship questionnaire (SEAR). This was a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, flexible-dose (25, 50, 100 mg, as needed) international study of sildenafil in men > or =18 years of age in Mexico, Brazil, Australia, and Japan. The primary study outcome was change in self-esteem from baseline to the end of treatment. Secondary study measures were changes in other SEAR components, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) domains, percentage of intercourse attempts that were successful, and the response to a global efficacy question at the end of treatment. Patients were well balanced for age and duration of ED (placebo = 149 and sildenafil = 151). Compared with placebo, sildenafil significantly improved self-esteem, confidence, sexual relationship satisfaction, and overall relationship satisfaction (P < 0.0001). The psychosocial measures of well-being assessed with the SEAR were positively correlated (range 0.60-0.86, P < 0.0001) with erectile function, the frequency of achieving erections that allowed satisfactory sexual intercourse, the percentage of successful sexual intercourse attempts, and global treatment efficacy. Significant improvements in self-esteem, confidence, sexual relationship satisfaction, and overall relationship satisfaction after treatment of ED with sildenafil were consistent among countries. These data suggest a substantial cross-cultural improvement in well-being after successful treatment of ED with sildenafil.

  18. Shockwave treatment of erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Gruenwald, Ilan; Appel, Boaz; Kitrey, Noam D; Vardi, Yoram

    2013-04-01

    Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) is a novel modality that has recently been developed for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). Unlike other current treatment options for ED, all of which are palliative in nature, LI-ESWT is unique in that it aims to restore the erectile mechanism in order to enable natural or spontaneous erections. Results from basic science experiments have provided evidence that LI-ESWT induces cellular microtrauma, which in turn stimulates the release of angiogenic factors and the subsequent neovascularization of the treated tissue. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been clinically investigated and applied in several medical fields with various degrees of success. High-intensity shock wave therapy is used for lithotripsy because of its focused mechanical destructive nature, and medium-intensity shock waves have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and are used for treating a wide array of orthopedic conditions, such as non-union fractures, tendonitis, and bursitis. In contrast, LI-ESWT has angiogenetic properties and is therefore used in the management of chronic wounds, peripheral neuropathy, and in cardiac neovascularization. As a result of these characteristics we initiated a series of experiments evaluating the effect of LI-ESWT on the cavernosal tissue of patients with vasculogenic ED. The results of our studies, which also included a double-blind randomized control trial, confirm that LI-ESWT generates a significant clinical improvement of erectile function and a significant improvement in penile hemodynamics without any adverse effects. Although further extensive research is needed, LI-ESWT may create a new standard of care for men with vasculogenic ED.

  19. Erectile function in cardiovascular patients: its significance and a quick assessment using a visual-scale questionnaire.

    PubMed

    Glavaš, Sandra; Valenčić, Lara; Trbojević, Natasa; Tomašić, Ana-Marija; Turčić, Nikolina; Tibauth, Sara; Ružić, Alen

    2015-12-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the connection between erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular diseases and to test a novel visual-scale questionnaire (VEF) we propose for the assessment of erectile function. Erectile function was assessed in 170 male cardiovascular patients under the age of 70 by the use of several self-administered questionnaires: the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5); the Massachusetts Male Aging Study questionnaires (MMAS Sexual Activity Questionnaire and MMAS Single Question), and finally, VEF. Patients’ mean age was 55.65 ± 9.97 y. The most common indications for hospitalization were coronary artery disease (CAD) (n = 82, 48%), and decompensated chronic heart failure (n = 30, 18%). The prevalence of ED as determined by IIEF-5 was 58% (n = 99). Patients with ED were on average 5.7 years older (P = 0.0001), had a higher frequency of diabetes (by 19%, P < 0.01), and a somewhat higher level of uric acid (by 72 μmol/l, P < 0.01). Results of the VEF correlated significantly with those of other questionnaires. Three different machine learning algorithms demonstrated a greater accuracy of VEF than IIEF-5 and MMAS Sexual Activity Questionnaire in predicting ED severity. ED is highly prevalent among cardiovascular patients. The Visual Scale Erectile Function questionnaire (VEF) is a simple and valid tool, suitable for quick screening of this condition.

  20. Erection capability is potentiated by long-term sildenafil treatment: role of blood flow-induced endothelial nitric-oxide synthase phosphorylation.

    PubMed

    Musicki, Biljana; Champion, Hunter C; Becker, Robyn E; Liu, Tongyun; Kramer, Melissa F; Burnett, Arthur L

    2005-07-01

    Despite demonstrated clinical efficacy of sildenafil for the temporary treatment of erectile dysfunction, the possibility that sildenafil used long-term durably augments erectile ability remains unclear. We investigated whether continuous long-term administration of sildenafil at clinically relevant levels to aged rats "primes" the penis for improved erectile ability and involves nitric oxide (NO) or RhoA/Rho-kinase signaling pathways. In aged, but not young rats, sildenafil prolonged erection and increased the protein expressions of phosphorylated endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) at serine-1177 and phosphorylated Akt at serine-473 in penes. Only in the young rat penis, protein expressions of phosphodiesterase-5 and phosphomyosin phosphatase target subunit 1, a marker of Rho-kinase activity, were increased by sildenafil. Sildenafil inhibited phosphodiesterase-5 activity in penes of young and aged rats coincident with assayed free plasma levels of the drug equivalent to clinically therapeutic measurements. We conclude that erectile ability can be enhanced under preconditions of erectile impairment by long-term inhibition of phosphodiesterase-5 and that the effect is mediated by Akt-dependent eNOS phosphorylation. The lack of erectile ability enhancement in young rats by long-term phosphodiesterase-5 inhibition may relate to restrained NO signaling by phosphodiesterase-5 up-regulation, lack of incremental Akt and eNOS phosphorylation, and heightened Rho-kinase signaling in the penis.

  1. An update of Penile Fractures: Long-term significance of the number of hours elapsed till surgical repair on long-term outcomes.

    PubMed

    Kozacıoğlu, Zafer; Ceylan, Yasin; Aydoğdu, Özgü; Bolat, Deniz; Günlüsoy, Bülent; Minareci, Süleyman

    2017-03-01

    We updated our data on penile fractures and investigated the significance of the time interval from the incident of the fracture until the operation on the erectile functions and long-term complications. Between January 2001 and June 2014, 64 patients were operated on with a preoperative diagnosis of penile fracture. We could evaluate 54 of these patients. The patients were classified into 3 groups according to the time interval from the time of fracture until surgery. The validated Turkish version of the erectile components of International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) was answered by every patient 3 times after the surgery; before the incident of fracture, at first postoperative year, and at the time of the study (IIEF-5 and question #15 were used). The complications were noted and an erectile function index score was calculated for every patient. Mean follow up period was 44.9 (±2.8) months for all patients There was no statistically significant difference between the 3 groups in terms of the erectile components of IIEF questionnaire scores for the time periods and for individual patients in each separate group. Complications for all groups were also similar. In consideration of long-term results, neither serious deformities nor erectile dysfunction occur as a consequence of a delay in surgery performed within the first 24 hours in patients without urethral involvement.

  2. Diabetes-induced changes in the alternative splicing of the slo gene in corporal tissue.

    PubMed

    Davies, Kelvin P; Zhao, Weixin; Tar, Moses; Figueroa, Johanna C; Desai, Pratik; Verselis, Vytas K; Kronengold, Jack; Wang, Hong-Zhan; Melman, Arnold; Christ, George J

    2007-10-01

    Erectile dysfunction is a common diabetic complication. Preclinical studies have documented that the Slo gene (encoding the BK or Maxi-K channel alpha-subunit) plays a critical role in erectile function. Therefore, we determined whether diabetes induces changes in the splicing of the Slo gene relevant to erectile function. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was used to compare Slo splice variant expression in corporal tissue excised from control and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Fischer F-344 rats. Splice variants were sequenced, characterized by patch clamping, and fused to green fluorescent protein to determine cellular localization. The impact of altered Slo expression on erectile function was further evaluated in vivo. A novel Slo splice variant (SVcyt, with a cytoplasmic location) was predominantly expressed in corporal tissue from control rats. STZ-diabetes caused upregulation of a channel-forming transcript SV0. Preliminary results suggest that SV0 was also more prevalent in the corporal tissue of human diabetic compared with nondiabetic patients. The change in isoform expression in STZ-treated rats was partially reversed by insulin treatment. Intracorporal injection of a plasmid expressing the SV0 transcript, but not SVcyt, restored erectile function in STZ-diabetic rats. Alternative splicing of the Slo transcript may represent an important compensatory mechanism to increase the ease with which relaxation of corporal tissue may be triggered as a result of a diabetes-related decline in erectile capacity.

  3. Primary realignment vs suprapubic cystostomy for the management of pelvic fracture-associated urethral injuries: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Barrett, Keith; Braga, Luis H; Farrokhyar, Forough; Davies, Timothy O

    2014-04-01

    To compare primary urethral realignment (PR) with suprapubic cystostomy (SPC) for the management of pelvic fracture-associated posterior urethral injuries with regards to rates of stricture, erectile dysfunction, and urinary incontinence. Two electronic databases (MEDLINE and EMBASE) were searched with the assistance of a librarian. Title, abstract, and full text screening was carried out by 2 independent reviewers, with discrepancies resolved by consensus. Narrative reviews, surveys, and historical articles were excluded. Only studies reporting a direct comparison of PR vs SPC for the management of posterior urethral injuries associated with blunt trauma in adults were included. Quality assessment of the included articles was performed in duplicate. Stricture incidence was evaluated for all included studies, as were erectile dysfunction and incontinence rates when reported. All outcomes were treated as dichotomous data with calculation of odds ratio and were pooled using a random effects model with Review Manager 5.1. Our comprehensive search yielded 161 unique articles. Nine articles were included in the final meta-analysis. Stricture rate was significantly lower in the PR group (odds ratio [OR] = 0.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.04-0.41, P <.001). There was no significant difference between the 2 interventions with regards to erectile dysfunction (OR = 1.19, 95% CI 0.73-1.92, P = .49) or incontinence (OR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.38-1.48, P = .41). PR appears to reduce the incidence of stricture formation after pelvic fracture-associated posterior urethral injuries as compared with SPC. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Adherence to Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in Long-Term Users: How Do Men Use the Inhibitors?

    PubMed Central

    Carvalheira, Ana; Forjaz, Vera; Pereira, Nuno Monteiro

    2014-01-01

    Introduction The high effectiveness of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-i) in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) has been demonstrated. However, previous research shows that PDE5-i treatments have high discontinuation rates. Aim The main goals of this study were to (i) characterize the way men use PDE5-i and (ii) analyze the adherence to treatment, identifying the factors that influence PDE5-i use. Methods A total of 148 men with clinical diagnosis for ED who maintained the treatment with PDE5-i for over 3 years were interviewed. Interviews concerning their ongoing treatment were carried out using a standardized questionnaire with quantitative and qualitative items. Main Outcome Measures Physiological measures included the intracavernous alprostadil injection test, associated with penile rigidometry and penile Doppler ultrasound. The qualitative measure included two questions: “Do you use the drug in every sexual intercourse?” and “How do you use the inhibitor?” Results ED causes were classified as venogenic (31%), arteriogenic (23%), psychogenic (18%), iatrogenic (13%), neurogenic (8%), and diabetic (7%). Participation rate was 71.8%. Of the 148 patients studied, 75% claimed not to use PDE5-i in every intercourse. Most used tadalafil (66%), followed by sildenafil (20%), vardenafil (10%), and 4% alternated the type of medicine. Four main categories emerged concerning the factors that determine the intake of PDE5-i in some intercourse situations and not in others: (i) psychological factors; (ii) medication-related factors; (iii) circumstantial factors; and (iv) relational factors. Conclusion The analysis of men's narratives revealed a combination of factors that influence the adherence to PDE5-i. The psychological and medication-related factors were the most prevalent. This study highlighted the importance of taking these factors into account, both at the time of prescription and during the follow-up in order to improve adherence. Carvalheira A, Forjaz V, and Pereira NM. Adherence to phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in long-term users: How do men use the inhibitors? Sex Med 2014;2:96–102. PMID:25356304

  5. Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: Pharmacology and Clinical Impact of the Sildenafil Citrate Orodispersible Tablet Formulation.

    PubMed

    Scaglione, Francesco; Donde, Shaantanu; Hassan, Tarek A; Jannini, Emmanuele A

    2017-02-01

    The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the pharmacology, tolerability, and efficacy of the different phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), with a special focus on the sildenafil orodispersible tablet (ODT) formulation. A literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Reviews using the terms erectile dysfunction, patient preference, sildenafil, and PDE5 inhibitors to identify articles published in English between May 1, 2006, and November 18, 2016. A total of 29 studies were included in this review. There are substantial data in the literature on the use of PDE5 inhibitors for the treatment of ED. Oral PDE5 inhibitors have been found to be efficacious in the treatment of ED based on results from standard tools used to assess treatment outcomes, such as the Global Assessment Questionnaire 1. In addition, PDE5 inhibitors are defined as well tolerated because of the low occurrence of serious adverse effects or discomfort. Mild adverse reactions, compared with a placebo, include headache, flushing, dyspepsia, abnormal vision, nasal congestion, back pain, myalgia, nausea, dizziness, and rash. Both the film-coated tablet and ODT formulations of sildenafil with or without water have equivalent systemic exposure. However, use of a sildenafil ODT formulation offers a convenient alternative method of administration that would be advantageous for patients with ED. According to the published literature, the PDE5 inhibitors are considered an effective and well-tolerated option for the treatment of ED as determined by data generated from standard instruments used in the assessment of treatment outcomes in ED and reported types and severity of adverse effects. The sildenafil ODT formulation, which disintegrates rapidly in the mouth, is an alternative to the solid film-coated tablet formulation that offers administration benefit with the potential to improve treatment adherence, thereby enhancing the sexual health and sense of psychological well-being of patients and their partners. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  6. The future is today: emerging drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Albersen, Maarten; Shindel, Alan; Mwamukonda, Kuwong; Lue, Tom

    2011-01-01

    Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the most common male sexual dysfunction presented for treatment, and the most thoroughly studied sexual dysfunction in men. In the late 20th century, important discoveries were made regarding both the physiologic processes of penile erection and the pathophysiology of ED. These discoveries led to the commercial introduction of the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5I), a class of medications which now accounts for the largest segment of the ED market. While these drugs are highly efficacious for many men, a relatively large subset of ED patients who do not respond to PDE5I has been identified. Recognition of this subset of the ED population and the ageing of the population has driven researchers to investigate novel treatment targets for ED. Increased research efforts have resulted in the development of several orally available compounds that combine high efficacy with low rates of adverse events. In this review we report on various compounds that regulate penile erection both centrally (Clavulanic acid, Dopamine and Melanocortin receptor agonists) and peripherally (novel PDE5I, soluble and particulate Guanylil Cyclase activators, Rho-kinase inhibitors and Maxi-K channel openers), and discuss the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the development of these emerging drugs for ED. PMID:20415601

  7. Sexuality in patients with Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias.

    PubMed

    Bronner, Gila; Aharon-Peretz, Judith; Hassin-Baer, Sharon

    2015-01-01

    Sexual dysfunction (SD) is common among patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and other dementias. Sexual functioning and well-being of patients with PD and their partners are affected by many factors, including motor disabilities, non-motor symptoms (e.g., autonomic dysfunction, sleep disturbances, mood disorders, cognitive abnormalities, pain, and sensory disorders), medication effects, and relationship issues. The common sexual problems are decreased desire, erectile dysfunction, difficulties in reaching orgasm, and sexual dissatisfaction. Hypersexuality is one of a broad range of impulse control disorders reported in PD, attributed to antiparkinsonian therapy, mainly dopamine agonists. Involvement of a multidisciplinary team may enable a significant management of hypersexuality. Data on SD in demented patients are scarce, mainly reporting reduced frequency of sex and erectile dysfunction. Treatment of SD is advised at an early stage. Behavioral problems, including inappropriate sexual behavior (ISB), are distressing for patients and their caregivers and may reflect the prevailing behavior accompanying dementia (disinhibition or apathy associated with hyposexuality). The neurobiologic basis of ISB is still only vaguely understood but assessment and intervention are recommended as soon as ISB is suspected. Management of ISB in dementia demands a thorough evaluation and understanding of the behavior, and can be treated by non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions. © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. The International Index of Erectile Function: development of an adapted tool for use in HIV-positive men who have sex with men.

    PubMed

    Coyne, Katherine; Mandalia, Sundhiya; McCullough, Sonya; Catalan, Jose; Noestlinger, Christiana; Colebunders, Robert; Asboe, David

    2010-02-01

    Erectile dysfunction is common in HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). A standardized scale is needed to assess erectile function in clinical practice and research studies. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is a widely accepted tool for assessing erectile function designed for heterosexual men. We modified the tool for MSM. We present an analysis of internal consistency of the questionnaire in an HIV-positive cohort. The adapted questionnaire included modified questions within each of the five domains of the IIEF: (i) erectile function, (ii) intercourse satisfaction, (iii) orgasmic function, (iv) sexual desire, and (v) overall satisfaction with sex. MSM at seven European HIV treatment centers completed the questionnaire. Responses were analyzed for internal consistency using standardized Cronbach's alpha values within each of the five domains. A factor analysis was performed to confirm the domain structure of the questionnaire. Data from 486 MSM were analyzed. The factor analysis supported the domain structure described. Questions about erectile function, orgasmic function, and sexual desire performed well, with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.82, 0.83, and 0.89, respectively. Questions concerning intercourse satisfaction were less consistent (Cronbach's alpha 0.55) because frequency of attempts at sexual intercourse did not correlate with other responses. Responses about satisfaction with sex with a regular partner diverged from satisfaction with overall sex life. Frequency of morning erections diverged from other aspects of erectile function, whereas erections with masturbation correlated better. Internal consistency was high overall. This tool is suitable for HIV-positive MSM and can be used in screening, research, and monitoring treatment response.

  9. Chronic administration of sildenafil improves erectile function in a rat model of chronic renal failure

    PubMed Central

    Gurbuz, Nilgun; Kol, Arif; Ipekci, Tumay; Ates, Erhan; Baykal, Asli; Usta, Mustafa F

    2015-01-01

    The relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED) and chronic renal failure (CRF) has been reported in several studies. This study aimed to investigate whether the chronic use of sildenafil could enhance the erectile capacity in CRF-induced rats. In addition, we assessed the effect of that treatment on certain molecules, which have been suggested to play crucial roles in erectile physiology and CRF-related ED as well. Three groups of animals were utilized: (1) age-matched control rats, (2) CRF-induced rats, (3) CRF-induced rats treated with chronic administration of sildenafil (5 mg kg−1 p.o. for 6 weeks [treatment started after 6 weeks of CRF induction]). At 3 months, all animals underwent cavernosal nerve stimulation (CNS) to assess erectile function. Penile tissue advanced glycation end products (AGE's)/5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde, malondialdehyde (MDA), cGMP (ELISA), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and neuronal NOS (nNOS) (Western blot) analyses were performed in all rat groups. CRF-induced rats had a significant decrease in erectile function when compared to control rats (P < 0.05). The increase in both intracavernosal pressure (ICP) and area under the curve of CRF-induced rats treated with sildenafil (Group 3) was greater than CRF-induced rats (Group 2). Additionally, sildenafil treatment decreased AGE, MDA and iNOS levels, while it preserved nNOS and cGMP contents in CRF-induced penile tissue. Decreased AGE, MDA, iNOS and increased nNOS, cGMP levels at the sildenafil-treated group increased both ICP and Total ICP to CNS, which led to improve erectile function in CRF-induced rats. The results of the present study revealed the therapeutic effect of chronic sildenafil administration on erectile function in CRF-induced rats. PMID:25652632

  10. Icariside II Promotes the Differentiation of Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells to Schwann Cells to Preserve Erectile Function after Cavernous Nerve Injury.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Tao; Zhang, Tian-Biao; Wang, Chao-Liang; Zhang, Wei-Xing; Jia, Dong-Hui; Yang, Fan; Sun, Yang-Yang; Ding, Xiao-Ju; Wang, Rui

    2018-06-14

    Icariside II (ICA II) is used in erectile dysfunction treatment. Adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are efficient at improving erectile function. This study aimed to explore the action mechanism of ADSCs in improving erectile function. ADSCs were isolated from the adipose tissues of rats. Cell proliferation was determined using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The expressions of mRNA and protein were determined separately through qRT-PCR and western blot. The endogenous expressions of related genes were regulated using recombinant plasmids and cell transfection. A Dual- Luciferase Reporter Assay was performed to determine the interaction between miR-34a and STAT3. Rat models with bilateral cavernous nerve injuries (BCNIs) were used to assess erectile function through the detection of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intracavernosal pressure (ICP). ICA II promoted ADSCs' proliferation and differentiation to Schwann cells (SCs) through the inhibition of miR-34a. Suppressed miR-34a promoted the differentiation of ADSCs to SCs by upregulating STAT3. ICA II promoted the differentiation of ADSCs to SCs through the miR-34a/STAT3 pathway. The combination of ICA II and ADSCs preserved the erectile function of the BCNI model rats. ADSCs treated with ICA II markedly preserved the erectile function of the BCNI model rats, which was reversed through miR-34a overexpression. ICA II promotes the differentiation of ADSCs to SCs through the miR- 34a/STAT3 pathway, contributing to erectile function preservation after the occurrence of a cavernous nerve injury.

  11. The effects of sildenafil after chronic L-NAME administration in male rat sexual behavior.

    PubMed

    Ferraz, Marcia M D; Quintella, Suelen L; Parcial, André L N; Ferraz, Marcos R

    2016-01-01

    Ferraz MMD, Quintella SL, Parcial ALN, Ferraz MR. The effects of sildenafil citrate and L-NAME on male rat sexual behaviour. PHARMACOL BIOCHEM BEHAV. Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects up to 50% of men between 40 and 70years of age. Significant advances in the pharmacological treatment of ED occurred in recent years, most notably the introduction of the first oral selective phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor, sildenafil. This study investigated the effectiveness of chronic oral treatment with L-NAME in rats as an experimental model of erectile dysfunction to evaluate new pharmacological agents that affect the sexual response. The effects of chronic oral L-NAME treatment, separately or in combination with sildenafil, on the sexual behaviour of male rats were evaluated. Filtered water was used as a control. Acute administration of L-NAME did not alter the sexual response compared with control, but sildenafil administration facilitated sexual behaviour after acute and chronic administration. Chronic L-NAME treatment inhibited motivational and consummatory measures of male rat sexual behaviour. Sildenafil prevented the inhibitory effects of L-NAME. The present results confirm that chronic oral treatment with a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor may be a relevant peripheral ED model to evaluate the effects of drugs on erectile function of male rats. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Erectile Dysfunction Among Patients on Methadone Maintenance Therapy and Its Association With Quality of Life.

    PubMed

    Teoh, Joni Bing Fei; Yee, Anne; Danaee, Mahmoud; Ng, Chong Guan; Sulaiman, Ahmad Hatim Bin

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a problem commonly encountered by patients on methadone maintenance therapy (MMT). This study aimed to assess the prevalence of ED among this group of patients along with its risk factors and association with quality of life (QOL). Male patients on MMT in a tertiary hospital in Malaysia were included in the study. A total of 134 patients with sexual partners were assessed for ED using the International Index of Erectile Function. Patients were assessed for substance use using Opiate Treatment Index (OTI) and depression using the Malay version of the self-rated Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS-BM). QOL was evaluated using World Health Organisation Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-BREF. The prevalence of ED among patients on MMT was 67%, with 26.1% having mild ED, 30.4% having mild-to-moderate ED, 7.0% having moderate ED, and 17.2% having severe ED. Patients with depression were 4 times more likely to have ED compared with patients without depression, whereas increasing age significantly correlated with the severity of ED. Having ED predicted a poorer QOL in the social relationships domain. Depression is highly associated with ED, which negatively influences the social aspect of QOL among patients on methadone maintenance therapy.

  13. Lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile dysfunction associated with depression among Japanese patients with late-onset hypogonadism symptoms.

    PubMed

    Takao, Tetsuya; Tsujimura, Akira; Okuda, Hidenobu; Yamamoto, Keisuke; Fukuhara, Shinichiro; Matsuoka, Yasuhiro; Miyagawa, Yasushi; Nonomura, Norio; Okuyama, Akihiko

    2011-06-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), erectile dysfunction (ED) and depression in Japanese patients with late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) symptoms. The study comprised 87 Japanese patients with LOH symptoms (>27 points on the Aging Males Symptoms Scale). Thirty-four patients were diagnosed as having depression and the remaining 53 patients were diagnosed as not having depression by the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview. We compared the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) 5, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS quality-of-life (QOL) index, King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), endocrinological data, and free uroflow study between depression and non-depression patients and performed multiple logistic regression analysis. IIEF5 scores of depression patients were significantly lower than those of non-depression patients. In KHQ, only the category of general health perceptions was significantly higher in depression patients than non-depression patients. However, IPSS, QOL index, and endocrinological and uroflowmetric data showed no significant difference between the groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed moderate and severe ED to be risk factors for depression. However, LUTS are not related to depression. Moderate and severe ED is correlated with depression, whereas LUTS are not related to depression in Japanese LOH patients.

  14. Effects of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors on erectile function, sexual desire and ejaculation.

    PubMed

    Gur, Serap; Kadowitz, Philip J; Hellstrom, Wayne Jg

    2013-01-01

    Treatment with 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5ARI) is commonly utilized for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The true prevalence of sexual side effects with 5ARI treatment is currently unknown. The current article reviews the reported adverse effects of 5ARI in regard to erectile function, sexual desire and ejaculation. A PubMed search was performed of all articles from 1990 to present, which reported any sexual side effects with finasteride or dutasteride. Preference was given to more recent and human studies where available. Clinical trials with 5ARI report prevalence rates of de novo erectile dysfunction of 5 - 9%. Decreased circulating dihydrotestosterone (DHT) resulting from 5ARI use is associated with diminished sexual desire and/or orgasm. The presence of adverse sexual effects is associated with decreased self-esteem, quality of life and ability to maintain an intimate relationship. Inhibition of 5ARI additionally influences progesterone and deoxycorticosterone levels and may alter psychological functions, including increased depression, melancholy and loss of general well being. Ejaculatory dysfunction has not been well studied in patients using 5ARI. Patients receiving therapy with 5ARI should be counseled as to potential sexual and psychological adverse effects. Future clinical studies are needed to further investigate the sexual side effects associated with this class of drugs.

  15. Efficacy and tolerability of lodenafil carbonate for oral therapy of erectile dysfunction: a phase III clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Glina, Sidney; Fonseca, Gilvan N; Bertero, Eduardo B; Damião, Ronaldo; Rocha, Luíz C A; Jardim, Carlos R F; Cairoli, Carlos E; Teloken, Cláudio; Torres, Luiz O; Faria, Geraldo E; da Silva, Marcelo B; Pagani, Eduardo

    2010-05-01

    This is a phase III, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial on lodenafil carbonate (LC), a novel phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor developed in Brazil. Expanding information on LC efficacy and safety. International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) erectile domain, positive answers to the sexual encounter profile (SEP)-2 and SEP-3 questions and incidence of adverse events (AEs). A total of 350 men with erectile dysfunction (ED) of all degrees were randomized to placebo, LC 40 mg or LC 80 mg and followed for 4 weeks. They completed the IIEF and answered the SEP questions 2 and 3 after each intercourse without and with the use of LC. IIEF Erectile Domain scores without and with the use of medication were the following (mean [M] +/- standard deviation [SD]): placebo = 13.9 +/- 5.2 and 14.8 +/- 7.8; LC 40 mg = 13.6 +/- 5.3 and 18.6 +/- 8.0; LC 80 mg = 13.4 +/- 4.9 and 20.6 +/- 7.7 (analysis of variance [ANOVA] P < 0.01). Positive answers to SEP-2 without and with the use of medication were the following (M +/- SD): placebo = 55.3 +/- 43.2% and 52.1 +/- 41.4%; LC 40 mg = 46.4 +/- 44.3% and 63.5 +/- 42.0%; LC 80 mg = 50.2 +/- 40.9% and 80.8 +/- 32.3% (ANOVA P < 0.01). Positive answers to SEP-3 were the following: placebo = 20.2 +/- 32.3% and 29.7 +/- 38.1%; LC 40 mg = 19.6 +/- 34.3% and 50.8 +/- 44.4%; LC 80 mg = 20.8 +/- 33.2% and 66.0 +/- 39.3% (ANOVA P < 0.01). The patients with at least one AE were placebo = 28.7%, LC 40 mg = 40.9%, and LC 80 mg = 49.5%. AEs whose incidence was significantly higher with LC than with placebo included rhinitis, headache, flushing, visual disorder, and dizziness. LC showed a satisfactory efficacy-safety profile for oral therapy of ED.

  16. Ca2+ -activated K+ channel (KCa) stimulation improves relaxant capacity of PDE5 inhibitors in human penile arteries and recovers the reduced efficacy of PDE5 inhibition in diabetic erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    González-Corrochano, R; La Fuente, Jm; Cuevas, P; Fernández, A; Chen, Mx; Sáenz de Tejada, I; Angulo, J

    2013-05-01

    We have evaluated the influence of calcium-activated potassium channels (KCa ) activation on cGMP-mediated relaxation in human penile tissues from non-diabetic and diabetic patients, and on the effects of PDE5 inhibitors on erectile responses in control and diabetic rats. Cavernosal tissues were collected from organ donors and from patients with erectile dysfunction (ED). Relaxations of corpus cavernosum strips (HCC) and penile resistance arteries (HPRA) obtained from these specimens were evaluated. Intracavernosal pressure (ICP) increases to cavernosal nerve electrical stimulation were determined in anaesthetized diabetic and non-diabetic rats. Concentration-dependent vasodilation to the PDE5 inhibitor, sildenafil, in HPRA was sensitive to endothelium removal, NO/cGMP pathway inhibition and KCa blockade. Accordingly, activation of KCa with NS-8 (10 μM) significantly potentiated sildenafil-induced relaxations in HPRA (EC50 0.49 ± 0.22 vs. 5.21 ± 0.63 μM). In HCC, sildenafil-induced relaxation was unaffected by KCa blockade or activation. Potentiating effects in HPRA were reproduced with an alternative PDE5 inhibitor (tadalafil) and KCa activator (NS1619) and prevented by removing the endothelium. Large-conductance KCa (BK) and intermediate-conductance KCa (IK) contribute to NS-8-induced effects and were immunodetected in human and rat penile arteries. NS-8 potentiated sildenafil-induced enhancement of erectile responses in rats. Activation of KCa recovered the impaired relaxation to sildenafil in diabetic HPRA while sildenafil completely reversed diabetes-induced ED in rats only when combined with KCa activation. Activation of KCa improves vasodilatory capacity of PDE5 inhibitors in diabetic and non-diabetic HPRA, resulting in the recovery of erectile function in diabetic rats. These results suggest a therapeutic potential for KCa activation in diabetic ED. © 2013 The Authors. British Journal of Pharmacology © 2013 The British Pharmacological Society.

  17. Short-term efficacy and safety of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy in erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Zou, Zi-Jun; Tang, Liang-You; Liu, Zhi-Hong; Liang, Jia-Yu; Zhang, Ruo-Chen; Wang, Yu-Jie; Tang, Yong-Quan; Gao, Rui; Lu, Yi-Ping

    2017-01-01

    The role of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) in erectile dysfunction (ED) is not clearly determined. The purpose of this study is to investigate the short-term efficacy and safety of LI-ESWT for ED patients. Relevant studies were searched in Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WANFANG and VIP databases. Effective rate in terms of International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function Domain (IIEF-EF) and Erectile Hardness Score (EHS) at about 1month after LI-ESWT was extracted from eligible studies for meta-analysis to calculate risk ratio (RR) of effective treatment in ED patients treated by LI-ESWT compared to those receiving sham-treatment. Overall fifteen studies were included in the review, of which four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were for meta-analysis. Effective treatment was 8.31 [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.88-17.78] times more effective in the LI-ESWT group (n=176) than in the sham-treatment group (n=101) at about 1 month after the intervention in terms of EHS, while it was 2.50 (95% CI: 0.74-8.45) times more in the treatment group (n=121) than in the control group (n=89) in terms of IIEF-EF. Nine-week protocol with energy density of 0.09mJ/mm2 and 1500 pluses seemed to have better therapeutic effect than five-week protocol. No significant adverse event was reported. LI-ESWT, as a noninvasive treatment, has potential short-term therapeutic effect on patients with organic ED irrespective of sensitivity to PDE5is. Owing to the limited number and quality of the studies, more large-scale, well-designed and long-term follow-up time studies are needed to confirm our analysis. Copyright® by the International Brazilian Journal of Urology.

  18. Detecting internet activity for erectile dysfunction using search engine query data in the Republic of Ireland.

    PubMed

    Davis, Niall F; Smyth, Lisa G; Flood, Hugh D

    2012-12-01

    What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Despite the increasing prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED), there is reluctance among symptomatic patients to present to healthcare providers for appropriate advice and treatment. A number of Internet campaigns have been launched by the Irish healthcare media since 2007 aiming to provide easily accessible advice on ED. Novel online technologies appear to provide a useful tool for educating the general public on the symptoms of ED because there has been a significant increase in overall Internet search activity for this term since 2007. • To assess Internet search trends for erectile dysfunction (ED) subsequent to public awareness campaigns being launched within the Republic of Ireland • To assess whether the advent of such campaigns correlates with increased Internet search activity for ED. • Google insights for search was utilized to examine Internet search trends for the term 'erectile dysfunction' across all categories between January 2005 and December 2011. • Search activity was limited to users from the Republic of Ireland within this timeframe. • Additionally, the number of Irish Internet media campaigns and Irish web pages providing information on ED was assessed between January 2005 and December 2011. • Statistical analysis of the data was performed using analysis of variance and Student's t-tests for pairwise comparisons. • There has been a significant increase in mean search activity for ED on an annual basis since 2007 (P < 0.001). • The number of Irish web pages associated with information on ED has also increased significantly on an annual basis since 2007 (P < 0.001). • There have been seven different Irish Internet media campaigns on ED since 2007 compared to two from 2005 to 2007 (P < 0.001). • There was no significant change in mean search activity for ED from 2005 to 2007 • The advent of recent Internet media campaigns and increasing number of Irish web pages is associated with a significant increase in online activity for ED in the Republic of Ireland. • Novel online technologies appear to provide a useful tool for educating the general public on the symptoms and treatment options available for ED. © 2012 BJU INTERNATIONAL.

  19. Gene therapy strategies for urological dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Chancellor, M B; Yoshimura, N; Pruchnic, R; Huard, J

    2001-07-01

    Novel molecular techniques such as conventional and ex vivo gene therapy, and tissue engineering have only recently been introduced to the field of urology. The lower urinary tract is ideally suited for minimally invasive therapy, and also ex vivo approaches would limit the risk of systemic side effects. Muscle-derived stem cells have been used successfully to treat stress incontinence, and rats with diabetic bladder dysfunction benefited from nerve growth factor (NGF)-based gene therapy. Nitric oxide synthase and capase-7 might provide suitable gene therapy targets for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia, respectively.

  20. The Natural History of Erectile Dysfunction After Prostatic Radiotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

    PubMed

    Gaither, Thomas W; Awad, Mohannad A; Osterberg, E Charles; Murphy, Gregory P; Allen, Isabel E; Chang, Albert; Rosen, Raymond C; Breyer, Benjamin N

    2017-09-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) after treatment for prostate cancer with radiotherapy (RT) is well known, and pooled estimates of ED after RT will provide more accurate patient education. To systematically evaluate the natural history of ED in men with previous erectile function after prostate RT and to determine clinical factors associated with ED. We performed a review of the PubMed and Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases in April 2016 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. Identified reports included a measurement of ED before and after prostate RT. Two hundred seventy-eight abstracts were screened and 105 publications met the criteria for inclusion. Only men with known erectile function before RT were included in the analysis. ED after RT of the prostate. In total, 17,057 men underwent brachytherapy (65%), 8,166 men underwent external-beam RT (31%), and 1,046 men underwent both (4%). Seven common instruments were used to measure ED, including 23 different cutoffs for ED. The Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) was used in 31 studies (30%). Pooled estimates of SHIM-confirmed ED (score <10-17) suggested the prevalence of ED after RT is 34% of men (95% CI = 0.29-0.39) at 1 year and 57% (95% CI = 0.53-0.61) at 5.5 years. Compared with brachytherapy, studies of the two types of radiation increased the proportion of new-onset ED found by 12.3% of studies (95% CI = 2.3-22.4). For every 10% who were lost to follow-up, the proportion of ED reported increased by 2.3% (95% CI = 0.03-4.7). ED is common regardless of RT modality and increases during each year of follow-up. Using the SHIM, ED is found in approximately 50% patients at 5 years. The strengths of this systematic review include strict inclusion criteria of studies that measured baseline erectile function, no evidence for large effect size bias, and a large number of studies, which allow for modeling techniques. However, all data included in this analysis were observational, which leaves the possibility that residual confounding factors increase the rates of ED. Definitions and measurements of ED after RT vary considerably in published series and could account for variability in the prevalence of reported ED. Loss to follow-up in studies could bias the results to overestimate ED. Gaither TW, Awad MA, Osterberg EC, et al. The Natural History of Erectile Dysfunction After Prostatic Radiotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sex Med 2017;14:1071-1078. Copyright © 2017 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Comparison of two cannulation methods for assessment of intracavernosal pressure in a rat model

    PubMed Central

    Luo, Lianmin; Wang, Jiamin; Li, Ermao; Luo, Jintai; Liu, Luhao; Wan, ShawPong

    2018-01-01

    Intracavernous pressure (ICP) measurement is a well-established technique for assessing the erectile function, which was performed by cannulating either crus or shaft of the penis. However, there are no studies concerning the experimental performance of the two cannulation sites yet. The aim of this study was to compare the measuring outcomes using two different cannulation sites. To validate the capacity of our study, both normal and the castration-induced erectile dysfunction rat models were conducted. Fifty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized equally into two groups: an intact group and a castration group. Five rats from each group firstly underwent different stimulation parameters to detect the optimal erectile responses. The residual rats in each group were further assigned into two subgroups (n = 10 per subgroup) according to two different cannulation sites (crus or shaft of the corpus cavernosum). The ICP values were compared between groups after different interventions. The optimal parameters for mean maximum ICP were recorded at 2.5V and a frequency of 15 Hz. The rats under the two different cannulation sites tended to show similar ICP values in both the intact and the castration groups. However, the success rate in monitoring ICP was significantly higher in the groups cannulating into the shaft of the penis compared to the crus (100% vs. 70%; P = 0.02). Our data suggested that the method of cannulation into the penile shaft could serve as a better alternative for the ICP measurement in rats. PMID:29486011

  2. The Effect of False Physiological Feedback on Sexual Arousal in Sexually Functional and Dysfunctional Men

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2004-01-01

    rather 37 than an active participant. This distractibility interferes with the physical and psychological stimulation needed for heightened sexual... stimulation or intercourse, how often did you have the feeling of orgasm or climax? 0 = No sexual stimulation /intercourse 1 = Almost never/never 2...arousal and orgasm . The DSM-IV (1994) was the first revision to include a category for drug induced sexual dysfunction (Segraves, 2002). Erectile

  3. Is there a relation between priapism occurring after penile doppler ultrasonography and international erectile function index score and erection hardness score levels?

    PubMed Central

    Sönmez, Mehmet Giray; Öztürk, Ahmet

    2017-01-01

    Objective The relation between Erection Hardness Score (EHS) and The International Erectile Function Index (IIEF) Questionnaire- Erectile Function Domain Score (IIEF-EF score) used in erectile dysfunction (ED) evaluation and the prevalence of priapism after penile Doppler ultrasonography (PDU) was examined in this study. Material and methods A total of 62 patients who had PDU were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups; there were 33 patients in IIEF-EF score ≤10, EHS <2 group (Group 1) and 29 patients in IIEF-EF score >10, EHS ≥2 group (Group 2). The two groups separated according to their scores were compared for age, body mass index (BMI), prevalence of priapism, vascular comorbidities and duration of erection. Results When compared to Group 2, median age, rate of vascular comorbidities rate and BMI were detected to be higher in Group 1 with IIEF-EF score ≤10 and EHS <2. But contrary to age and rate of vascular comorbidities (p=0.035, p=0.049 respectively), higher BMI was detected to be statistically insignificant (p=0.093). Duration of erection, IIEF-EF score and number of cases with priapism were significantly higher in Group 2 with IIEF-EF score >10 and EHS ≥2 (p<0.001, p=0.027, p=0.049 respectively). Conclusion High IIEF-EF and EHS scores, younger ages and lower rates of vascular comorbidities in patients from whom PDU was demanded increase the prevalence of priapism. PMID:29201505

  4. Psychometric validation of a sexual quality of life questionnaire for use in men with premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Abraham, Lucy; Symonds, Tara; Morris, Mark F

    2008-03-01

    An instrument that can systematically capture the impact of sexual dysfunction on quality of life (QoL) in men is needed. To psychometrically validate a sexual QoL instrument for men (SQOL-M) with premature ejaculation (PE) or erectile dysfunction (ED). The main assessment populations were men participating in clinical trials of treatments for PE or ED. Men with PE had a confirmed intravaginal ejaculatory latency time of < or = 2 minutes in > or = 70% of attempts. Men with ED had a score of > 21 on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Confirmatory psychometric testing was conducted in further groups of men with PE. The internal consistency, convergent and discriminant validity, test-retest reliability, and known-groups validity of the instrument were assessed. An 11-item version of the SQOL-M was produced following factor analyses on men with either PE or ED. Psychometric testing showed no overlap between items and good item-total correlations. Factor analysis confirmed a one-factor solution. Excellent internal consistency was demonstrated, with a Cronbach's alpha of > or = 0.82 in all groups. In men reporting no change in their symptoms, the SQOL-M showed excellent test-retest reliability: the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.77 for men with PE, and 0.79 for men with ED. Convergent validity was also good. In men with PE, the SQOL-M correlated with the satisfaction and distress domains of the Index of Premature Ejaculation. In men with ED, the SQOL-M correlated with the overall satisfaction domain of the IIEF. The measure also demonstrated excellent discriminant validity between men with PE or ED and men with no sexual dysfunction (P < 0.0001). The SQOL-M instrument is a useful tool for evaluating sexual QoL in men with PE and ED.

  5. Weaker masturbatory erection may be a sign of early cardiovascular risk associated with erectile dysfunction in young men without sexual intercourse.

    PubMed

    Huang, Yan-Ping; Chen, Bin; Yao, Feng-Juan; Chen, Sheng-Fu; Ouyang, Bin; Deng, Chun-Hua; Huang, Yi-Ran

    2014-06-01

    Although increasing evidences emphasize the importance of early cardiovascular evaluation in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) of unexplained aetiology, impaired masturbation-induced erections in young men are usually overlooked and habitually presumed to be psychological origin. To evaluate the young men presenting weaker masturbatory erection with no sexual intercourse (WME-NS) and verify if this cohort have early cardiovascular risks associated with ED. Male subjects aged 18-40 years with WME-NS were screened by analyzing detailed sexual intercourse and masturbatory history. The age-matched ED and non-ED population were identified by using International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5). All subjects with acute and/or chronic diseases (including diagnosed hypertension and diabetes) and long-term pharmacotherapy were excluded. Nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR), systemic vascular parameters and biochemical indicators related to metabolism were assessed. Comparison analysis and logistic regression analysis were conducted among WME-NS, ED and non-ED population. In total, 78 WME-NS cases (mean 28.99 ± 5.92 years), 179 ED cases (mean 30.69 ± 5.21 years) and 43 non-ED cases (mean 28.65 ± 4.30 years) were screened for analysis. Compared with non-ED group, WME-NS group had higher prevalence of early ED risk factors including endothelial dysfunction, insulin resistance, high level of glycosylated serum protein and abnormal NPTR. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis showed endothelia dysfunction (odds ratio: 8.83 vs. 17.11, both P < 0.001) was the independent risk factor for both WME-NS and ED. Weaker masturbatory erection may be a sign of early cardiovascular risk associated with ED in young men without sexual intercourse. More studies are warranted to elucidate the clinical benefits by targeting these formulated strategies. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  6. Which are the male factors associated with female sexual dysfunction (FSD)?

    PubMed

    Maseroli, E; Fanni, E; Mannucci, E; Fambrini, M; Jannini, E A; Maggi, M; Vignozzi, L

    2016-09-01

    It has been generally assumed that partner's erectile dysfunction, premature, and delayed ejaculation play a significant role in determining female sexual dysfunction (FSD). This study aimed to evaluate the role of the male partner's sexual function, as perceived by women, in determining FSD. A consecutive series of 156 heterosexual women consulting our clinic for FSD was retrospectively studied. All patients underwent a structured interview and completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). FSFI total score decreased as a function of partner's age, conflicts within the couple, relationship without cohabitation and the habit of engaging in intercourse to please the partner; FSFI total score increased as a function of frequency of intercourse, attempts to conceive and fertility-focused intercourse. FSFI total score showed a negative, stepwise correlation with partner's perceived hypoactive sexual desire (HSD) (r = -0.327; p < 0.0001), whereas no significant correlation was found between FSFI and erectile dysfunction, premature and delayed ejaculation. In an age-adjusted model, partner's HSD was negatively related to FSFI total score (Wald = 9.196, p = 0.002), arousal (Wald = 7.893, p = 0.005), lubrication (Wald = 5.042, p = 0.025), orgasm (Wald = 9.293, p = 0.002), satisfaction (Wald = 12.764, p < 0.0001), and pain (Wald = 6.492, p = 0.011) domains. Partner's HSD was also significantly associated with somatized anxiety, low frequency of intercourse, low partner's care for the patient's sexual pleasure, and with a higher frequency of masturbation, even after adjusting for age. In patients not reporting any reduction in libido, FSFI total score was significantly lower when their partner's libido was low (p = 0.041); the correlation disappeared if the patient also experienced HSD. In conclusion, the presence of erectile dysfunction, premature, and delayed ejaculation of the partner may not act as a primary contributing factor to FSD, as determined by FSFI scores; conversely, women's sexuality seems to be mostly impaired by the perceived reduction in their partner's sexual interest. © 2016 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

  7. Psychological impact and sexual dysfunction in men with and without spinal cord injury.

    PubMed

    Cobo Cuenca, Ana I; Sampietro-Crespo, Antonio; Virseda-Chamorro, Miguel; Martín-Espinosa, Noelia

    2015-02-01

    The World Health Organization recognizes sexual health as a fundamental right that should be guaranteed to all individuals. Sexual dysfunction affects various aspects in the lives (physical, psychic, and social) of affected persons. To assess the different types of sexual dysfunction, the quality of life (QOL), depression, anxiety, and levels of self-esteem observed in 165 men with sexual dysfunction, both with and without spinal cord injury (SCI). Case control study of 85 men with SCI and sexual dysfunction, and 80 men without SCI that have sexual dysfunction. The Sexual Health Evaluation Scale, the Fugl-Meyer Life Satisfaction Questionnaire scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Evaluation of the Sexual Health Scale, and Rosenberg's Self-esteem Scale were all used for data collection. Of the members in group A (with SCI), 89.4% (76) showed erectile dysfunction, and 75.2% (64) reported anejaculation. In group B (without SCI), 75 (96.8%) showed erectile dysfunction, and 58.7% (47) had disorders of sexual desire. In group A, 16.47 % (14) showed signs of depression, and 35.3% (30) had signs of anxiety. In group B, 30% (24) had elevated scores regarding depression, and 48.75% (39) had high scores for anxiety. All of the participants reported a high general QOL and a high satisfaction with their QOL but reported that their satisfaction with their sexual lives was only at the acceptable level. Social QOL is significantly higher in the SCI group (t Student P=0.031). The QOL, self-esteem, and anxiety and depression levels are significantly correlated. Men with sexual dysfunction strive to adapt to their situations, with the relationship between the type of sexual dysfunction and the QOL, mood (depression), and self-esteem all being important considerations. Sexuality and employment status are the areas where men with spinal cord injuries report less satisfaction. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  8. Associations of unhealthy lifestyle factors with sexual inactivity and sexual dysfunctions in Denmark.

    PubMed

    Christensen, Birgitte S; Grønbaek, Morten; Pedersen, Bo V; Graugaard, Christian; Frisch, Morten

    2011-07-01

    Studies have linked obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and tobacco smoking to erectile dysfunction, but the evidence linking unhealthy lifestyle factors to other sexual dysfunctions or to sexual inactivity is conflicting. To examine associations between unhealthy lifestyle factors and sexual inactivity with a partner and four specific sexual dysfunctions in each sex. We used nationally representative survey data from 5,552 Danish men and women aged 16-97 years in 2005. Cross-sectional associations of lifestyle factors with sexual inactivity and sexual dysfunctions were estimated by logistic regression-derived, confounder-adjusted odds ratios (ORs). We calculated ORs for sexual inactivity with a partner and for sexual dysfunction and sexual difficulties overall in both sexes, for erectile dysfunction, anorgasmia, premature ejaculation, and dyspareunia in men, and for lubrication insufficiency, anorgasmia, dyspareunia, and vaginismus in women. Obesity (body mass index [BMI]≥30 kg/m(2) ) or a substantially increased waist circumference (men ≥102 cm; women ≥88 cm), physical inactivity, and, among women, tobacco smoking were each significantly associated with sexual inactivity in the last year. Among sexually active men, both underweight (BMI <20 kg/m(2) ) and obesity, a substantially increased waist circumference, physical inactivity in leisure time, high alcohol consumption (>21 alcoholic beverages/week), tobacco smoking, and use of hard drugs were each significantly positively associated with one or more sexual dysfunctions (ORs between 1.71 and 22.0). Among sexually active women, the only significant positive association between an unhealthy lifestyle factor and sexual dysfunction was between hashish use and anorgasmia (OR 2.85). In both sexes, several unhealthy lifestyle factors were associated with sexual inactivity with a partner in the last year. Additionally, among sexually active participants, men with unhealthy lifestyles were significantly more likely to experience sexual dysfunctions. Considering the importance of a good sex life, our findings may be useful in attempts to promote healthier lifestyles. © 2011 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  9. Sexual dysfunction, Part II: Diagnosis, management, and prognosis.

    PubMed

    Halvorsen, J G; Metz, M E

    1992-01-01

    Sexual problems are common but infrequently diagnosed. They are classified into four major categories: (1) sexual desire disorders, (2) sexual arousal disorders, (3) orgasmic disorders, and (4) sexual pain disorders. MEDLINE files from 1966 to the present were searched using the specific sexual dysfunctions as key words along with the general key word "sexual dysfunction" to review the published literature. Additional articles came from the reference lists of dysfunction-specific reviews. The key to diagnosis often rests on the physician's willingness to raise the issue with patients. A rational protocol can be followed to identify causative organic and psychogenic factors using the psychosexual and medical history, a comprehensive physical examination, psychological assessment instruments, laboratory tests, and special procedures. Current psychological treatment includes one or more of the following components: sensate focus exercises, cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation training, hypnosis and guided imagery, and group therapies. Specific techniques, such as directed self-stimulation, the stop-start and squeeze techniques, the sexological examination, systematic desensitization, and Kegel exercises, are added therapy when appropriate. Marital therapy to improve communication and resolve conflict is also part of standard therapy. Medical management can include pharmacologic agents to correct endocrine dysfunctions or to alter the progression of the sexual response. Surgical management can involve arterial revascularization, venous ligation, and penile implants. A noninvasive vacuum constriction device is also used to treat erectile disorders. The long-term prognosis of the sexual dysfunctions varies with the type of disorder and its causes. Generally good results (80 to 95 percent satisfaction) are obtained when treating vaginismus, dyspareunia, male erectile disorders, and female orgasmic dysfunctions. Long-term results are modestly successful (40 to 80 percent) when treating inhibited male orgasm and premature ejaculation. Long-term success is poorest at present for treating sexual desire disorders.

  10. Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Shin, Byung-Cheul; Lee, Myeong Soo; Yang, Eun Jin; Lim, Hyun-Suk; Ernst, Edzard

    2010-08-06

    Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is an Andean plant of the brassica (mustard) family. Preparations from maca root have been reported to improve sexual function. The aim of this review was to assess the clinical evidence for or against the effectiveness of the maca plant as a treatment for sexual dysfunction. We searched 17 databases from their inception to April 2010 and included all randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of any type of maca compared to a placebo for the treatment of healthy people or human patients with sexual dysfunction. The risk of bias for each study was assessed using Cochrane criteria, and statistical pooling of data was performed where possible. The selection of studies, data extraction, and validations were performed independently by two authors. Discrepancies were resolved through discussion by the two authors. Four RCTs met all the inclusion criteria. Two RCTs suggested a significant positive effect of maca on sexual dysfunction or sexual desire in healthy menopausal women or healthy adult men, respectively, while the other RCT failed to show any effects in healthy cyclists. The further RCT assessed the effects of maca in patients with erectile dysfunction using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction-5 and showed significant effects. The results of our systematic review provide limited evidence for the effectiveness of maca in improving sexual function. However, the total number of trials, the total sample size, and the average methodological quality of the primary studies were too limited to draw firm conclusions. More rigorous studies are warranted.

  11. A twin study of erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Fischer, Mary E; Vitek, Mary Ellen; Hedeker, Don; Henderson, William G; Jacobsen, Steven J; Goldberg, Jack

    2004-01-26

    The extent of genetic influence on erectile dysfunction (ED) is unknown. This study determines the contribution of heredity to ED in a sample of middle-aged men. A classical twin study was conducted in the Vietnam Era Twin Registry, a national sample of male-male pairs (mean birth year, 1949) who served on active duty during the Vietnam era (1965-1975). A 1999 male health survey was completed by 890 monozygotic (MZ) and 619 dizygotic (DZ) pairs. The prevalence and heritability of 2 self-report indicators of ED, difficulty in having an erection and in maintaining an erection, are estimated. The prevalence of difficulty in having an erection is 23.3% and in maintaining an erection is 26.7%. Twin correlations for dysfunction in having an erection are 0.35 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.28-0.41) in MZ and 0.17 (95% CI, 0.09-0.27) in DZ pairs. For dysfunction in maintaining an erection, the twin correlations in MZ and DZ pairs are 0.39 (95% CI, 0.32-0.45) and 0.18 (95% CI, 0.09-0.27), respectively. The estimated heritability of liability for dysfunction in having an erection is 35% and in maintaining an erection is 42%. The heritable influence on ED remained significant after adjustment for ED risk factors. The present study demonstrates an ED-specific genetic component that is independent of genetic influences from numerous ED risk factors. The results suggest that future molecular genetic studies to identify ED-related polymorphisms are warranted.

  12. Erectile dysfunction might be associated with chronic periodontal disease: two ends of the cardiovascular spectrum.

    PubMed

    Zadik, Yehuda; Bechor, Ron; Galor, Shay; Justo, Dan; Heruti, Rafi J

    2009-04-01

    Both chronic periodontal disease (CPD) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are associated with cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, including smoking and diabetes mellitus. However, the association between ED and CPD has never been studied. To study the association between ED and CPD. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES. Prevalence of ED, prevalence of CPD, ED severity. The study population consisted of 305 men who filled the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire in order to detect ED and assess its severity, and underwent a pair of standardized posterior dental bitewing radiographs in order to detect CPD. SHIM questionnaire scores 21 or less represented ED. Alveolar bone loss of >or=6 mm represented CPD. The mean age of included men was 39.5 +/- 6.7 years. Overall, 70 (22.9%) men had ED and 13 (4.3%) had CPD. CPD was significantly more prevalent among men with mild ED (P = 0.004) and moderate to severe ED (P = 0.007) in comparison to men without ED. ED might be associated with CPD. These preliminary findings are consistent with theories that associate these conditions with systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis.

  13. Short-term improvement of erectile dysfunction by viewing humorous films in patients with atopic dermatitis.

    PubMed

    Kimata, Hajime

    2008-09-01

    Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by eczema, pruritus and cutaneous hyperreactivity to allergic triggers. We and others have reported that psychogenic stress aggravates these symptoms, while viewing humorous films alleviates them. We have also found that many AD patients suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED). ED exhibits multifactorial etiologies, including psychogenic stress and reduction of serum testosterone levels. This study assessed the effects of viewing humorous films on ED in patients with AD. The effects of viewing humorous films on International Index Erectile Function (IIEF) domain (erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, overall satisfaction) were studied. Subjects comprised 36 AD patients with ED and their healthy wives. Randomly assigned 18 patients and their healthy wives first viewed humorous films on three consecutive days (Days 1-3). After 2 weeks, they viewed control nonhumorous weather information films on three consecutive days (Days 1-3). Alternatively, other 18 patients and their wives first viewed control films on three consecutive days, and after 2 weeks they viewed humorous films on three consecutive days. Severity of ED and serum testosterone and estradiol levels were assessed 1 day before viewing (Day -1) and 1-4 days after viewing (Days 4-7). Viewing humorous films significantly improved the IIEF domain in association with increased serum testosterone levels and decreased serum estradiol levels on Day 4, while viewing control films failed to do so. However, this effect was short-term. After 4 days of viewing (Day 7), no improvement in ED or modulation of serum sex hormone levels was observed. Viewing humorous films improved ED in AD patients in association with increased serum testosterone levels and decreased serum estradiol levels. These results may be useful for the study and treatment of ED.

  14. Increased Risk of Osteoporosis in Depressive Patients with Erectile Dysfunction: A Cross-sectional Study from Malaysia.

    PubMed

    Nahas, Abdul Rahman Fata; Sulaiman, Syed Azhar Syed

    2017-01-01

    Depression imposes numerous changes on depressive men, promoting for low bone mineral density (BMD) and erectile dysfunction (ED), yet no published data on exploring the possible association between these two disorders among depressive men. We therefore investigated whether low BMD is associated with ED among depressive men and highlighted the possible mutual underlying factors that might give rise to these two disorders in this specific group of patients. In this cross-sectional study, 119 depressive men were recruited and their sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were obtained. Erectile function was evaluated using the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function. All patients received a calcaneal BMD scanning. Chi-square test was conducted to determine if a significant association exists between ED and low BMD. Of the study participants, ninety patients reported ED, while 29 patients reported no ED. Within the ED group, there was a significantly higher proportion of patients with low BMD compared to the non-ED group (85.6% vs. 62.1%, P = 0.006). In addition, among younger participants (i.e., aged < 50 years old), the difference in T-score between ED patients ( Md = -2.2, n = 41) and non-ED patients ( Md = -1.3, n = 20) was significant ( P = 0.001); but held no significance among older participants. While our findings are considered prefatory, we reported that low BMD was significantly associated with ED in depressive men and that only among young depressive patients, BMD was significantly lower in ED patients compared to non-ED patients. More research investigating these findings and the possible underlying mechanisms for such association are warranted.

  15. Community-based study of erectile dysfunction and sildenafil use: the Rancho Bernardo study.

    PubMed

    Monga, Manoj; Bettencourt, Ricki; Barrett-Connor, Elizabeth

    2002-05-01

    To evaluate erectile dysfunction (ED) using a validated self-administered 5-item questionnaire (5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF-5]) and the use of sildenafil in community-dwelling older men. In October 1998, the IIEF-5 was mailed to all surviving members of an established community-based cohort of older men. The degree of ED was stratified by the erectile function domain score as complete (4 or less), severe (5 to 10), moderate (11 to 14), mild (15 to 18), or none (19 to 20). Men were also asked about sildenafil use and its effectiveness. A total of 976 men (64%) responded to the questionnaire. The internal consistency of the questionnaire construct was confirmed, with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.96 for all 5 questions. Eighty-nine percent of men younger than 50 years were sexually active compared with 37% of men older than age 80. Twenty-six percent of sexually active men reported complete (3%), severe (10.5%), or moderate (12.6%) ED. The prevalence of moderate or complete ED increased with age and was reported by 58% of men aged 75 to 79 years. Eleven percent of sexually active men had used sildenafil one or more times, with 63% reporting good or "terrific" effects and 11% reporting no benefit. The response to sildenafil deteriorated with age and increasing degree of ED. The results of this community-based study confirm the strong correlation between advancing age and the prevalence and degree of ED, with 33% of men aged 75 and older reporting at least moderate ED. Nevertheless, more than 33% of men older than 75 years remained sexually active. Of the 660 sexually active men, 81% reported satisfaction with sexual intercourse; only 11% had tried sildenafil.

  16. Dorsal vein injuries observed during penile exploration for suspected penile fracture.

    PubMed

    Bar-Yosef, Yuval; Greenstein, Alexander; Beri, Avi; Lidawi, Ghalib; Matzkin, Haim; Chen, Juza

    2007-07-01

    Penile fracture is a rare injury, bearing potential impairment of erectile function if not treated. Patients with clinical presentation of a penile fracture commonly undergo early surgical exploration with the intention to repair a tunica albuginea tear. We present a group of men who presented with a penile hematoma following trauma to the erect penis. Exploration revealed an intact tunica albuginea and a dorsal vein tear. Eighteen men (mean age 38 years, range 20-55) presented with suspected penile fracture during an 8-year period. One man presented twice. Two of the patients were managed expectantly and the remaining 16 patients underwent 17 immediate surgical explorations. Explorations were performed under general anesthesia, using a circumferential subcoronal incision and degloving of the penile skin. The tunica albuginea of both penile sides as well as the penile urethra were examined for injuries. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for etiology, symptoms, signs of physical examination, and information on findings of surgical exploration. Data on erectile function, medical treatment for erectile dysfunction, and penile curvature were obtained during follow-up. In nine of the 17 procedures the tunica albuginea was intact and the only pathological finding was a ruptured dorsal vein. One procedure was negative for both tunical and vascular injury. A tunical tear was detected in the remaining seven procedures. At a mean follow-up of 40 months (range 4-91), five patients required medical treatment for erectile dysfunction, including the two who were managed expectantly, two with a tunical tear, and one with a venous tear. Dorsal vein tears may mimic penile fracture. Suggestive findings following trauma to the erect penis prompted exploration for suspected tunica albuginea tear. In less than half of the men was the diagnosis of penile fracture established and treated at surgery.

  17. Treatment response to sildenafil in men with erectile dysfunction relative to concomitant comorbidities and age.

    PubMed

    Goldstein, Irwin; Stecher, Vera; Carlsson, Martin

    2017-03-01

    To evaluate treatment response in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and concomitant comorbidities. Data were pooled from 42 placebo-controlled, flexible-dose sildenafil trials. In most trials, the sildenafil dose was 50 mg, taken ~1 hour before sexual activity but not more than once daily, with adjustment to 100 or 25 mg as needed. The overall population (N=9413) was stratified by age (<45, 46-64, ≥65 years). Treatment response was defined as a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) from baseline in the International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) domain score of >2, >5 and >7 for men with mild, moderate and severe ED at baseline, respectively, or an IIEF-EF domain score ≥26 (no ED) at end-point. In the overall population, treatment response using the IIEF-EF MCID definition was significantly greater (P<.0001) with sildenafil vs placebo in men with no comorbidity (77% vs 33%), cardiovascular disease/hypertension only (71% vs 27%), diabetes only (63% vs 24%) or depression only (78% vs 29%). Using an IIEF-EF score ≥26, treatment response was significantly greater (P<.0001) with sildenafil vs placebo in men with no comorbidity (49% vs 17%), cardiovascular disease/hypertension only (48% vs 12%), diabetes only (40% vs 12%) or depression only (60% vs 17%). With each definition, the treatment response for each age and comorbidity was significantly greater (P≤.0065) with sildenafil vs placebo. The treatment response was significantly greater with sildenafil vs placebo in men with ED and each comorbidity regardless of age. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  18. Metabolic syndrome: An independent risk factor for erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Sanjay, Saran; Bharti, Gupta Sona; Manish, Gutch; Rajeev, Philip; Pankaj, Agrawal; Puspalata, Agroiya; Keshavkumar, Gupta

    2015-01-01

    The objective was to determine the role of various components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) as independent risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). A total of 113 subjects of MetS, as recommended by recent IDF and AHA/NHLBI joint interim statement were selected for study who presented for ED. After doing Anthropometric examination, fasting laboratory assay for fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting insulin, hemoglobin A1c, triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and 2 h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was done. Erectile function was assessed by completing questions one through five of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). A multiple linear regression analysis was carried out on 66 subjects with IIEF-5 score as dependent variable and components of MetS FPG, 2 h OGTT, TG, HDL, and waist circumference as independent variables. Using a multiple linear regression analysis, we observed that presence of the various components of MetS was associated with ED and a decrease IIEF-5 score and this effect was greater than the effect associated with any of the individual components. Of the individual components of the MetS, HDL (B = 0.136; P = 0.004) and FPG (B = -0.069; P = 0.007) conferred the strongest effect on IIEF-5 score. However, overall age had most significant effect on IIEF-5 score. It is crucial to formulate strategies and implement them to prevent or control the epidemic of the MetS and its consequences. The early identification and treatment of risk factors might be helpful to prevent ED and secondary cardiovascular disease, including diet and lifestyle interventions.

  19. Initial brazilian experience in the treatment of localized prostate cancer using a new generation cryotechnology: feasibility study.

    PubMed

    Kim, Fernando J; Cerqueira, Michael A; Almeida, Jose C; Pompeo, Alexandre; Sehrt, David; Calheiros, Jose M; Martins, Fernando A; Molina, Wilson R

    2012-01-01

    The objective of our study is to present the first Brazilian cryoablation experience in the treatment of low and intermediate risk localized prostate cancer using 3rd generation cryoablation and real-time biplanar transrectal ultrasonography. Ten Brazilian patients underwent primary cryoablation for localized prostate cancer between October 2010 and June 2011. All patients consented for whole gland primary cryotherapy. The procedures were performed by 3rd generation cryoablation with the Cryocare System ® (Endocare, Irvine, California). Preoperative data collection included patient demographics along with prostate gland size, Gleason score, serum prostate specific antigen, and erectile function status. Operative and post--operative assessment involved estimated blood loss, operative time, complications, serum PSA level, erectile function status, urinary incontinence, biochemical disease free survival (BDFS), and follow-up time. All patients in the study successfully underwent whole gland cryoablation. The mean of: age, prostate size, PSA level, and Gleason score, was 66.2 years old; 40.7 g; 7.8 ng/mL; and 6 respectively. All patients were classified as low or moderate D' Amico risk (5 low and 5 moderate). Erectile dysfunction was present in 50% of patients. The estimated blood loss was minimal, operative time was 46.1 minutes. All patients that developed erectile dysfunction post-treatment responded to oral or intracavernosal medications with early penile rehabilitation. All patients maintained urinary continence by the end of a 10 months evaluation period and none had biochemical relapse within the mean follow-up of 13 months (7-15 months). Our initial experience shows that cryoablation is a minimally invasive option for the treatment of localized prostate cancer. Short term data seems to be promising but longer follow-up is necessary to verify oncological and functional results.

  20. Can Eosinophil Count, Platelet Count, and Mean Platelet Volume Be a Positive Predictive Factor in Penile Arteriogenic Erectile Dysfunction Etiopathogenesis?

    PubMed Central

    Sönmez, Mehmet Giray; Göğer, Yunus Emre; Sönmez, Leyla Öztürk; Aydın, Arif; Balasar, Mehmet; Kara, Cengiz

    2016-01-01

    Blood count parameters of patients referring with erectile dysfunction (ED) were examined in this study and it was investigated whether eosinophil count (EC), platelet count (PC), and mean platelet volume values among the suspected predictive parameters which may play a role in especially penile arteriogenic ED etiopathogenesis had a contribution on pathogenesis. Patients referring with ED complaint were evaluated. Depending on the medical story, ED degree was determined by measuring International Index of Erectile Function. Penile Doppler ultrasonography was taken in patients suspected to have vasculogenic ED. According to penile Doppler ultrasonography result, patients with arterial deficiency were included in the penile arteriogenic ED group and the patients with normal results were included in the nonvasculogenic ED group. A total of 36 patients participated in the study from the penile arteriogenic ED group and 32 patients from the nonvasculogenic ED group. Compared with the nonvasculogenic ED group, the penile arteriogenic ED group’s low International Index of Erectile Function score, high EC, mean platelet volume and PC values were detected to be statistically significant (p < .001, p = .021, p = .018, p = .034, respectively). No statistically significant difference was observed among the two groups when age, white blood cells, red blood cells, and hemoglobin values were considered. Pansystolic volume velocities were detected as statistically significantly low compared with the nonvasculogenic ED group in the measurements made in 5th, 10th, 15th, and 20th minutes on the right and left sides in the penile arteriogenic ED group. High MPV value and PC is a significant predictive factor for penile arteriogenic ED and vasculogenic ED and high EC is specifically predictive of arteriogenic ED. PMID:27895254

  1. Chronic ethanol consumption induces erectile dysfunction: Role of oxidative stress.

    PubMed

    Muniz, Jaqueline J; Leite, Letícia N; De Martinis, Bruno S; Carneiro, Fernando S; Tirapelli, Carlos R

    2015-11-15

    Investigate the effects of chronic ethanol consumption on erectile function and on the corpus cavernosum (CC) reactivity to endothelin-1 (ET-1). Male Wistar rats were treated with ethanol (20% v/v) for six weeks. Ethanol-treated rats showed impaired erectile function represented by decreased intracavernosal pressure/mean arterial pressure (ICP/MAP) responses. Ethanol consumption increased the contractile response induced by ET-1 in the isolated CC. Tiron increased ET-1-induced contraction in CC from control and ethanol-treated rats. No differences in the maximal contraction to ET-1 were observed after incubation of CC with PEG-catalase. SC560 and SC236 increased ET-1-induced contraction in CC from ethanol-treated rats. Y27632 reduced the contraction induced by ET-1 in CC from control and ethanol-treated rats. Ethanol increased plasma TBARS, superoxide anion (O2(-)) levels and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in the rat CC. Reduced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels in CC and increased catalase (CAT) activity in plasma and CC were detected after treatment with ethanol. Ethanol decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the rat CC. Increased expression of COX-1 was observed in CC from ethanol-treated rats. Treatment with ethanol decreased COX-2 expression but did not alter the expression of Nox1, RhoA and p-RhoA (ser(188)) in the rat CC. The major new findings of our study are that ethanol consumption induces erectile dysfunction (ED) and increases the contraction induced by ET-1 in the rat CC by a mechanism that involves decreased generation of H2O2 and vasodilator prostanoids as well as increased activation of the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Penile artery shunt syndrome: a novel cause of erectile dysfunction after penile revascularization surgery.

    PubMed

    Pavlinec, Jonathan G; Hakky, Tariq S; Yang, Christopher; Massis, Kamal; Munarriz, Ricardo; Carrion, Rafael E

    2014-09-01

    Penile revascularization is a surgical treatment option for erectile dysfunction (ED) in healthy individuals due to a focal arterial occlusion in the absence of generalized vascular disease. Most described failures have been attributed to graft stenosis or disruption of the anastomosis. We report a novel phenomenon called Penile Artery Shunt Syndrome that contributed to persistent ED in a patient after penile microvascular arterial bypass surgery. A 26-year-old man presented for evaluation of long-standing ED, which was attributed to trauma sustained 12 years earlier. He had difficulty obtaining and maintaining erections despite oral pharmacotherapy. Clinical data related to the case were studied, analyzed, and reviewed with urologic and radiologic specialists at multiple centers that collaborated in the care of this patient. Penile duplex ultrasound peak systolic velocities and five-item International Index for Erectile Function questionnaire scores were the main outcome measures. Initial diagnostic workup of the patient confirmed severe insufficiency of the left cavernosal artery, with no evidence of venous leak. The patient underwent penile microvascular arterial bypass surgery with anastomosis of the left inferior epigastric artery to the left dorsal penile artery. The patient had persistence of severe ED despite patent anastomosis by penile duplex ultrasound. Subsequent arteriography revealed an arterial shunt due to an aberrant obturator artery arising from the donor inferior epigastric artery. The patient underwent embolization of the aberrant obturator artery, with resolution of the shunt and marked improvement in erectile function. The presence of an aberrant obturator artery arising from the inferior epigastric artery may predispose to persistent ED after revascularization due to the creation of a shunt phenomenon. Pelvic arteriography may be useful in identifying anomalous anatomic considerations prior to penile revascularization and to evaluate patients with persistent postoperative ED. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  3. An open-label, multicenter, flexible dose study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Viagra (sildenafil citrate) in Korean men with erectile dysfunction and arterial hypertension who are taking antihypertensive agents.

    PubMed

    Park, Hyun Jun; Park, Nam Cheol; Shim, Hong Bang; Park, Jong Kwan; Lee, Sung Won; Park, Kwangsung; Kim, Sae Woong; Moon, Ki Hak; Lee, Dong Hyeon; Yoon, Sang Jin

    2008-10-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common among men taking antihypertensive agents to control blood pressure. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate in men with ED taking antihypertensive agents. A total of 198 male subjects, aged 20 years and older were enrolled. This study was conducted for 10 weeks as an open-label, multicenter and flexible dose trial with a 2-week screening period and an 8-week treatment phase. Subjects were asked to complete Event Log Worksheets, as well as the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and the Global Efficacy Assessment Questions (GEAQ) questionnaires during the study period. The average age among the 167 subjects who completed the study was 55.8 (31.7 to 77.1). The scores for questions 3 and 4 of IIEF improved from 2.3 and 1.8 at baseline to 3.7 and 3.4 at week 4 and 3.8 and 3.4 at week 8, respectively. There were 86.3% of the patients reported improved erectile function at week 8; 88.3% of the patients reported improved ability to achieve sexual intercourse at week 8. There were no significant differences observed in the responses to questions 3 and 4 of IIEF and GEAQ by the number of antihypertensive agents taken. The adverse events were facial flushing (20.1%), headache (11.7%), palpitation (5.0%), rhinitis (2.8%), URI (2.8%), dizziness (2.2%), dyspnea (2.2%), and nausea (1.7%). Sildenafil citrate is an effective treatment for ED; it is safe and well tolerated by patients with ED taking multiple antihypertensive agents for arterial hypertension.

  4. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in urology: a systematic review of outcome in Peyronie's disease, erectile dysfunction and chronic pelvic pain.

    PubMed

    Fojecki, Grzegorz Lukasz; Tiessen, Stefan; Osther, Palle Jörn Sloth

    2017-01-01

    The objective was to evaluate high-level evidence studies of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for urological disorders. We included randomized controlled trials reporting outcomes of ESWT in urology. Literature search on trials published in English using EMBASE, Medline and PubMed was carried out. The systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. We identified 10 trials on 3 urological indications. Two of 3 trials on Peyronie's disease (PD) involving 238 patients reported improvement in pain; however, no clinical significant changes in penile deviation and plaque size were observed. Four studies on erectile dysfunction (ED) including 337 participants were included. Using International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) and erectile hardness scale (EHS) data suggested a significant positive effect of ESWT in phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor (PDE-5i) responders in 2 of 4 trials and 3 of 4 trials, respectively. Three studies on chronic pelvic pain (CPP) engaging 200 men reported positive changes in National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI). There was considerable heterogeneity between trials both with regard to treatment techniques and outcome measures, making it difficult to compare results. ESWT may resolve pain in PD patients, while evidence for reducing curvature and plaques size is poor. Effects of ESWT on IIEF in ED patients are inconsistent; however, data on EHS does imply that the treatment potentially may recover natural erection in PDE-5i responders. ESWT seems to be able to resolve pain in CPP patients in the short term. In all three disease entities, long-term outcome data are still warranted.

  5. Lifestyle Factors and Premature Ejaculation: Are Physical Exercise, Alcohol Consumption, and Body Mass Index Associated With Premature Ejaculation and Comorbid Erectile Problems?

    PubMed

    Ventus, Daniel; Jern, Patrick

    2016-10-01

    Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common sexual problem in men, but its etiology remains uncertain. Lifestyle factors have long been hypothesized to be associated with sexual problems in general and have been proposed as risk factors for PE. To explore associations among physical exercise, alcohol use, body mass index, PE, and erectile dysfunction. A population-based sample of Finnish men and a sample of Finnish men diagnosed with PE were surveyed for statistical comparisons. Participants using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or other medications known to affect symptoms of PE were excluded from analyses. Self-report questionnaires: Multiple Indicators of Premature Ejaculation, International Index of Erectile Function-5, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, and Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire. The clinical sample reported lower levels of physical exercise (mean = 27.53, SD = 21.01, n = 69) than the population-based sample (mean = 34.68, SD = 22.82, n = 863, t930 = 2.52, P = .012), and the effect size was large (d = 0.85). There was a small negative correlation between levels of physical exercise and symptoms of PE (r = -0.09, P < .01, n = 863) in the population-based sample. The association between physical exercise and PE remained significant after controlling for effects of age, erectile dysfunction, alcohol use, and body mass index. If future studies show that the direction of causality of this association is such that physical activity alleviates PE symptoms, then including physical activity in PE treatment interventions could be a promising addition to treatment regimes. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. All-Natural Tips to Improve Your Sex Life: Exercise, Diet Changes May Help Reverse ED (Erectile Dysfunction)

    MedlinePlus

    ... your inbox ! All-natural tips to improve your sex life Exercise, diet changes may help reverse ED ... problem , may reverse your ED and improve your sex life. They are easy to adopt and enrich ...

  7. Structural and stereological analysis of elastic fibers in the glans penis of young men.

    PubMed

    Andrade, F; Cardoso, G P; Bastos, Ana Luiza; Costa, W; Chagas, M; Babinski, M

    2012-01-01

    The extracellular matrix is an important element in penile function and pathology, although little is known about its components in human glans. This study evaluates the morphological organization and volumetric density of elastic fibers in the glans penis of young men without any evidence of urogenital disease at autopsy or medical history. Penile glans were obtained from five young men who died of causes not related to the urogenital tract, ranging in age from 18 to 30 years (mean 24 years). Samples were fixed in formalin, embedded in paraffin, and histologically processed. Tissue was analyzed by light microscopy using Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin, after previous oxidation with oxone. The point-counting method was used for morphometrical evaluation. Quantities were expressed as volumetric densities (Vv) and were determined on 25 random fields for each individual. Elastic system fibers were easily identified. These fibers had tortuous profile and surrounded sinusoids in the glans penis. An irregular elastic fibers network was identified in the mucosa, while in the corpus spongiosum the elastic fibers were longitudinally distributed. Volumetric density of elastic fibers in the glans penis is 29.4% ± 3.1. These data could provide valuable information in order to draw parallels regarding patients with erectile dysfunction. Further studies regarding extracellular matrix of the penis are necessary to better elucidate the relation between elastic fibers and erectile dysfunction.

  8. Six months of daily treatment with vardenafil improves parameters of endothelial inflammation and of hypogonadism in male patients with type 2 diabetes and erectile dysfunction: a randomized, double-blind, prospective trial.

    PubMed

    Santi, Daniele; Granata, Antonio R M; Guidi, Alessandro; Pignatti, Elisa; Trenti, Tommaso; Roli, Laura; Bozic, Roberto; Zaza, Stefano; Pacchioni, Chiara; Romano, Stefania; Nofer, Jerzy Roch; Rochira, Vincenzo; Carani, Cesare; Simoni, Manuela

    2016-04-01

    Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with endothelial dysfunction, characterized by a reduction of nitric oxide (NO)-mediated relaxation. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) improve NO levels. The aim of the study was to investigate whether long-term, chronic treatment with the PDE5i vardenafil improves systemic endothelial function in diabetic men. A prospective, investigator-initiated, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, clinical trial was conducted. In total, 54 male patients affected by T2DM, diagnosed within the last 5 years, and erectile dysfunction were enrolled, regardless of testosterone levels. In all, 26 and 28 patients were assigned to verum and placebo groups respectively. The study consisted of an enrollment phase, a treatment phase (24 weeks) (vardenafil/placebo 10  mg twice in a day) and a follow-up phase (24 weeks). Parameters evaluated were as follows: International Index of Erectile Function 15 (IIEF-15), flow-mediated dilation (FMD), serum interleukin 6 (IL6), endothelin 1 (ET-1), gonadotropins and testosterone (measured by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry). IIEF-15 erectile function improved during the treatment (P<0.001). At the end of the treatment both FMD (P=0.040) and IL6 (P=0.019) significantly improved. FMD correlated with serum testosterone levels (R(2)=0.299; P<0.001). Testosterone increased significantly under vardenafil treatment and returned in the eugonadal range only in hypogonadal men (n=13), without changes in gonadotropins. Chronic vardenafil treatment did not result in relevant side effects. This is the first double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial designed to evaluate the effects of chronic treatment of vardenafil on endothelial health-related parameters and sexual hormones in patients affected by a chronic disease. Chronically administered vardenafil is effective and improves endothelial parameters in T2DM patient. Moreover, chronic vardenafil therapy improves hypogonadism in diabetic, hypogonadal men. © 2016 European Society of Endocrinology.

  9. Study on the clinical value of alprostadil combined with α-lipoic acid in treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Zhang, L; Zhang, H-Y; Huang, F-C; Huang, Q; Liu, C; Li, J-R

    2016-09-01

    We investigated the clinical value of alprostadil combined with the α-lipoic acid in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus with erectile dysfunction (DMED). We selected a total of 76 cases of patients who were admitted to endocrinology department of our hospital from June 2014 to June 2015 and diagnosed as DMED, and the average age was (46.7 ± 7.2) years old, average course of diabetes mellitus was (6.2 ± 2.8) years and average body mass index was (25.4 ± 1.3) kg/m2. 40 cases were randomly divided in the observation group while 36 cases were divided in the control group. They received blood glucose control therapy. The patients in the observation group received 60 mg alprostadil hydrochloride and 600 mg α-lipoic acid added into 250 mL normal saline, intravenous drip once per day for 2 weeks. The patients in the control group took tadalafil 5 mg orally, once per night for 2 weeks as a course of treatment. There were no cases of loss. The effective rate of treatment in observation group is significantly higher than that in the control group (95.0% vs. 80.5%, p < 0.05). The score of IIEF-5, EHGS and the FMD value of brachial artery of the observation group after the operation were significantly higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05). The adverse reaction rate in the observation group was lower than that in the control group (7.5% vs. 13.9%, p < 0.05). Alprostadil combined with α-lipoic acid can improve DMED patients' vascular endothelial function and erection hardness to treat erectile dysfunction with less adverse effects and better safety.

  10. Adverse Effects of Common Sports and Recreational Activities on Male Reproduction.

    PubMed

    Panara, Kush; Masterson, John M; Savio, Luis F; Ramasamy, Ranjith

    2018-05-03

    Male factor infertility plays a significant role in infertility. Many factors have been associated with male infertility; however, the link between many sports and recreational factors and male reproduction remains poorly characterized. To evaluate the current literature regarding the impact of many common sports and recreational factors on male reproduction. A comprehensive PubMed and Embase search for relevant articles published between 1970 and 2017 was performed by combining the following search terms: male, sports (including individual sports), traumatic brain injury, sauna, hot tub, fertility, erectile dysfunction, varicocele, environment, cell phone, and laptop computer. Hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction can be associated with sports with high rates of head injuries, such as American football. Although early reports linked other sports, such as bicycling, to erectile dysfunction, subsequent studies isolated these associations to sports cycling rather than recreational cycling. Certain sports (football, basketball, handball, and volleyball) were linked to increasing prevalence and severity of varicocele, offering a potential link to male infertility. In addition, recreational activities such as sauna, hot tubs, Jacuzzis, heated car seats, and laptop use were associated with high testicular temperature, which can impair spermatogenesis. Radio frequency electromagnetic waves from cell phones and laptops have also been shown to have deleterious effects on sperm viability and motility. Many common sports and daily activities represent potential sources of male infertility. Clinicians should be aware of these associations in explaining idiopathic infertility in males. Male infertility is an often overlooked component of a couple's inability to conceive. We outline many common and often overlooked sports and recreational exposures that have been associated with male infertility. Copyright © 2018 European Association of Urology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. The relationship between metabolic syndrome, its components, and erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and a meta-analysis of observational studies.

    PubMed

    Besiroglu, Huseyin; Otunctemur, Alper; Ozbek, Emin

    2015-06-01

    The studies examining the association between metabolic syndrome (MetS), its components, and erectile dysfunction (ED) should be reevaluated to arrive at comprehensive results in this field. Our aim was to gather individual studies in order to achieve a more reliable conclusion regarding the relationship between MetS, its components, and ED. Three investigators searched the Pubmed-Medline and Embase databases using the key words "metabolic syndrome" and "erectile dysfunction." The individual studies were evaluated for selection of suitable studies. Eight studies that met all inclusion criteria were chosen, and a pooled analysis of odds ratio (ORs) between MetS and ED was calculated. The components of MetS to ED were also estimated. Eight observational studies with a total of 12,067 participants were examined. The overall analysis revealed a 2.6-fold increase in patients with MetS having ED (2.67[1.79-3.96]; P < 0.0001). All individual components of MetS except high-density lipoprotein level were also found to correlate with an increased prevalence of ED. Of those, fasting blood sugar was detected highest rate for ED with OR of 2.07 ([1.49-2.87]; P < 0.0001). Metabolic syndrome is associated with a high risk rate of ED, and patients with MetS should be informed about this association and encouraged to make lifestyle modifications to improve their general health and to limit cardiovascular risk as well as ED prevalence. However, manuscripts included in meta-analysis were observational studies that prohibits ascertainment of temporal associations and necessitates further prospective studies. © 2015 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  12. Evaluation of the impact of the urinary symptoms on quality of life of patients with painful bladder syndrome/chronic pelvic pain and radiation cystitis: EURCIS study.

    PubMed

    Rapariz-González, M; Castro-Díaz, D; Mejía-Rendón, D

    2014-05-01

    To evaluate the impact of urinary symptoms of Painful Bladder/Pelvic Pain Syndrome and Radiation Cystitis (PBCPPS) on the Quality of Life, and self-esteem of the patient. An observational, multicenter, epidemiological and cross-sectional study was performed on patients with Painful Bladder/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome and Radiation Cystitis. Data was recorded on severity of urinary symptoms and QoL impairment using the PUF Score. The patients evaluated the QoL deterioration grade through the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), and the level of their anxiety and self-esteem with the Goldberg's Anxiety Scale (GAS) and Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), respectively. Post-hoc comparisons were performed between the results of the KHQ of this study and a sample of patients with urinary incontinence (UI). Results on RSES were analyzed with data from the general population and from patients with erectile dysfunction. A total of 530 cases, mostly female patients, who had been diagnosed with PBCPPS, were analyzed. High levels of deterioration in QoL were described: KHQ scores were significantly higher when compared with patients with UI (P<.01). Involvement of self-esteem was higher in patients with RC and men, who obtained scores similar to those of patients with erectile dysfunction. Patients with Painful Bladder Syndrome/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome and Radiation Cystitis present high levels of anxiety, and significant reductions in both quality of life and self-esteem. Especially for men, this affectation is similar to that caused by erectile dysfunction. Copyright © 2013 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  13. Safety and Quality Concerns Regarding Over-the-Counter Sexual Enhancement Products Sold in the USA Market Pose a Major Health Risk.

    PubMed

    Ahmed, Mohammed; Kumari, Suneeta; Manali, Partam; Sonje, Snezana; Malik, Mansoor

    2016-10-01

    Safety and quality concerns regarding over the counter sexual enhancement products sold in the USA market pose a major health risk to the general public. Nevertheless, the use of herbal medicines continues to expand rapidly across world and many people perceive usage of herbal medication as a safe and reliable way to improve health outcome. The safety of herbal supplements has become a globally major concern in national and international health authorities due to increasing adverse events and adulterations associated with usage of herbal medications. These non FDA approved products with unknown ingredients are widely accessible for purchase ranging from local food, drug stores and to the internet. These Erectile Dysfunction (ED) pills may contain Sildenafil, the active ingredient of Viagra in much higher quantity then legally prescribed by a licensed physician or they may contain unknown quantities of Thiosildenafil, the active ingredient in Cialis. The types of chemicals found in these medications are making it harder for regulatory authorities to track them down. These products keep the consumer in the dark in terms of the quantity, ingredients, effectiveness and possible side effects. These sexual enhancement products are being sold as safe and natural with false hopes to resolve erectile dysfunction. Patients who are prone to impulsive hypersexual behavior such as patients with bipolar disorder, substance use, borderline personality disorder and those who may feel adamant to discuss erectile dysfunction with their physicians are more likely to become the victims of using illicit medications/ drugs with serious health risks consequences. We present a case report of an individual with bipolar disorder and hypersexual behavior who became victim to over the counter sexual enhancement products/supplements which caused serious health and life threatening consequences.

  14. Standardization of vascular assessment of erectile dysfunction: standard operating procedures for duplex ultrasound.

    PubMed

    Sikka, Suresh C; Hellstrom, Wayne J G; Brock, Gerald; Morales, Antonio Martin

    2013-01-01

    In-office evaluation of erectile dysfunction by color duplex Doppler ultrasound (CDDU) may benefit the decision-making process in regard to choosing the most appropriate therapy. Unfortunately, there is no uniform standardization in performing CDDU resulting in high variability in data expression and interpretation when comparing results among various centers, especially when conducting multicenter trials. Establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs) is a major step that will help minimize such variability. This SOP describes CDDU procedure with focus on establishing uniformity and normative parameters. Measure intra-arterial diameter, peak systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity, and resistive index for each cavernosal artery. After initial discussion with the patient about his history and International Index of Erectile Function evaluation describe procedural steps to the patient. Perform the CDDU in a relaxed state, scanning the entire penis (in B-mode image) using a 7.5- to 12-MHz linear array ultrasound probe. An intracorporal injection of a single or combination of vasoactive agents (e.g., prostaglandin E1, phentolamine, and papaverine) is then administered and CDDU performed at various time points, preferably with audiovisual sexual stimulation (AVSS). Monitor penile erection response (tumescence and rigidity) near peak blood flow. Self-stimulation or AVSS leaving the patient alone in room or redosing may be considered to decrease any anxiety and help achieve a maximum rigid erection. Considering the complexity and heterogeneity of CDDU evaluation, this communication will help in standardization and establish uniformity in such data interpretation. When indicated, invasive diagnostic testing involving (i) penile angiography and (ii) cavernosography/cavernosometry to establish veno-occlusive dysfunction may be recommended to facilitate further treatment options. © 2012 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

  15. [Phytotherapy in urology. Current scientific evidence of its application in urolithiasis, chronic pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction and urinary tract infections].

    PubMed

    Morán, E; Budía, A; Broseta, E; Boronat, F

    2013-03-01

    To assess the usefulness of phytotherapy in urolitiasis, urinary tract infections, erectile dysfunction (ED) and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain (CP/CPP). Systematic review of the evidence published until January 2011 using the following scientific terms:phytotherapy, urinary lithiasis, Chronic prostatitis, chronic pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, urinary tract infection, cystitis and the scientific names of compounds following the rules of the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature. The databases used were Medline and The Cochrane Library.We included articles published until January 2011 written in English and Spanish. We included studies in Vitro/in vivo on animal models or human beings. Exclusion criteria were literature not in English and Spanish or articles with serious methodological flaws. We included 86 articles selecting 40 that met the inclusion criteria. In Urolitiasis there are few works in humans. The phytate has its main use as prevention and in reducing the growth of residual fragments after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). In CP/CPP the only compound that has shown effectiveness was the extract of pollen in a field of multimodal treatment. In DE ther is no evidence for the use of herbal medicine.Most of the works have limitations in the design or low sample size. In urinary tract infections most of the products are diuretics .There is only evidence for the cranberry as prevention in young or pregnant women. It must not be used as a treatment for urinary tract infections. Phytotherapy is usefull in repeat urinary tract infections and the CP/CPP. It has some role in the urolitiasis and lacks useful in the DE. Copyright © 2012 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  16. Autoeroticism, mental health, and organic disturbances in patients with erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Corona, Giovanni; Ricca, Valdo; Boddi, Valentina; Bandini, Elisa; Lotti, Francesco; Fisher, Alessandra D; Sforza, Alessandra; Forti, Gianni; Mannucci, Edoardo; Maggi, Mario

    2010-01-01

    Masturbation is a common, but often neglected, male sexual behavior. To investigate the psychobiological correlates of self-reported masturbation in the last 3 months. A consecutive series of 2,786 heterosexual male patients (mean age 48.4 +/- 13.2) consulting an outpatient clinic for erectile dysfunction (ED) was studied. Several hormonal, biochemical and instrumental parameters (penile Doppler ultrasound [PDU]) were investigated. Patients were interviewed, prior to the beginning of any treatment, with Structured Interview on Erectile Dysfunction (SIEDY) and ANDROTEST structured interviews. They also completed the Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire, a brief self-reported questionnaire for the screening of the symptoms of mental disorders in a nonpsychiatric setting. Among the patients studied, 1,781 (61.9%) reported they had masturbated at least once per month in the preceding 3 months. The frequency of masturbation was inversely related to age (r = -0.329; P < 0.0001) and directly associated with education level (adj r = 0.052, P < 0.05 after adjustment for age). A feeling of guilt during masturbation was reported by 274 (15.4%) patients. After adjusting for age, masturbation was positively associated with testosterone levels, stressful conditions, and both unstable and long-lasting couple relationship. Urogenital problems such as varicocele and prostate abnormalities also increased the chance of masturbation. Reported guiltiness during autoeroticism was associated with psychological disturbances, low prolactin, low testosterone, and increased relational problems. An erection not normal during masturbation was declared by 1,361 (76.4%) patients and associated with a prevalent organic component of ED, because of lower peak systolic velocity PDU and higher SIEDY Scale 1 scores. This study indicates that masturbation is a relatively frequent behavior in male subjects with ED. Inquiring about this sexual behavior is an important issue for understanding overall patients' sexual attitudes and behavior.

  17. Effect of Eischens Yoga During Radiation Therapy on Prostate Cancer Patient Symptoms and Quality of Life: A Randomized Phase II Trial.

    PubMed

    Ben-Josef, Avital Mazar; Chen, Jerry; Wileyto, Paul; Doucette, Abigail; Bekelman, Justin; Christodouleas, John; Deville, Curtiland; Vapiwala, Neha

    2017-08-01

    A randomized phase II study was performed to measure the potential therapeutic effects of yoga on fatigue, erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and overall quality of life (QOL) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients undergoing external beam radiation therapy (RT). The participants were randomized to yoga and no-yoga cohorts (1:1). Twice-weekly yoga interventions were offered throughout the 6- to 9-week courses of RT. Comparisons of standardized assessments were performed between the 2 cohorts for the primary endpoint of fatigue and the secondary endpoints of erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and QOL before, during, and after RT. From October 2014 to January 2016, 68 eligible PCa patients underwent informed consent and agreed to participate in the study. Of the 68 patients, 18 withdrew early, mostly because of treatment schedule-related time constraints, resulting in 22 and 28 patients in the yoga and no-yoga groups, respectively. Throughout treatment, those in the yoga arm reported less fatigue than those in the control arm, with global fatigue, effect of fatigue, and severity of fatigue subscales showing statistically significant interactions (P<.0001). The sexual health scores (International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire) also displayed a statistically significant interaction (P=.0333). The International Prostate Symptom Score revealed a statistically significant effect of time (P<.0001) but no significant effect of treatment (P=.1022). The QOL measures had mixed results, with yoga having a significant time by treatment effect on the emotional, physical, and social scores but not on functional scores. A structured yoga intervention of twice-weekly classes during a course of RT was associated with a significant reduction in pre-existing and RT-related fatigue and urinary and sexual dysfunction in PCa patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. The effect of methamphetamine on an animal model of erectile function.

    PubMed

    Tar, M T; Martinez, L R; Nosanchuk, J D; Davies, K P

    2014-07-01

    In the US methamphetamine is considered a first-line treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is also a common drug of abuse. Reports in patients and abusers suggest its use results in impotence. The efficacy of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i) to restore erectile function in these patient groups also has not been determined. In these studies, we determined if the rat is a suitable animal model for the physiological effects of methamphetamine on erectile function, and if a PDE5i (tadalafil) has an effect on erectile function following methamphetamine treatment. In acute phase studies, erectile function was measured in male Sprague-Dawley rats, before and after administration of 10 mg/kg methamphetamine i.p. Chronically treated animals received escalating doses of methamphetamine [2.5 mg/kg (1st week), 5 mg/kg (2nd week), and 10 mg/kg (3rd week)] i.p. daily for 3 weeks and erectile function compared with untreated controls. The effect of co-administration of tadalafil was also investigated in rats acutely and chronically treated with methamphetamine. Erectile function was determined by measuring the intracorporal pressure/blood pressure ratio (ICP/BP) following cavernous nerve stimulation. In both acute and chronic phase studies, we observed a significant increase in the rates of spontaneous erections after methamphetamine administration. In addition, following stimulation of the cavernous nerve at 4 and 6 mA, there was a significant decrease in the ICP/BP ratio (approximately 50%), indicative of impaired erectile function. Tadalafil treatment reversed this effect. In chronically treated animals, the ICP/BP ratio following 4 and 6 mA stimulation decreased by approximately 50% compared with untreated animals and erectile dysfunction (ED) was also reversed by tadalafil. Overall, our data suggest that the rat is a suitable animal model to study the physiological effect of methamphetamine on erectile function. Our work also provides a rationale for treating patients that report ED associated with therapeutics-containing methamphetamine or amphetamine with PDE5i. © 2014 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

  19. Sexual Function and Testosterone Level in Men With Conservatively Treated Chronic Kidney Disease.

    PubMed

    Fugl-Meyer, Kerstin S; Nilsson, Marie; Hylander, Britta; Lehtihet, Mikael

    2017-07-01

    Sexual dysfunctions are common, but underrecognized, in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and are inversely associated with the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Sexual dysfunctions may affect quality of life in males with CKD. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship among sex hormones, sexual function, and sexual satisfaction in a group of men between 18 and 50 years of age with CKD Stages 1 to 5 not treated with hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Fasting blood samples for hemoglobin, testosterone, prolactin, and luteinizing hormone and questionnaire surveys (Sexual Complaints Screener for Men, International Index of Erectile Function, and Aging Male Symptom scale) were evaluated in 100consecutive men. Higher CKD stage (i.e., lower renal function) had a statistically significant ( p < .01) correlation with lower total testosterone, free testosterone, and hemoglobin levels, and higher luteinizing hormone and prolactin levels. Sexual function/dysfunctions were not significantly associated with CKD stage, even after adjustment for age and serum testosterone. The results indicate that CKD stage is a factor affecting testosterone levels in combination with age in men between 18 and 50 years of age at different stages of CKD but not treated with hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Sexual dysfunctions are common but not strongly correlated to testosterone levels, prolactin levels, and survey (Sexual Complaints Screener for Men, International Index of Erectile Function, and Aging Male Symptom scale) responses in patients with CKD.

  20. Combination therapy for erectile dysfunction: an update review.

    PubMed

    Dhir, Rohit R; Lin, Hao-Cheng; Canfield, Steven E; Wang, Run

    2011-05-01

    The introduction of oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5Is) in the late 1990s and early 2000s revolutionized the field of sexual medicine and PDE5Is are currently first-line monotherapy for erectile dysfunction (ED). However, a significant proportion of patients with complex ED will be therapeutic non-responders to PDE5I monotherapy. Combination therapy has recently been adopted for more refractory cases of ED, but a critical evaluation of current combination therapies is lacking. A thorough PubMed and Cochrane Library search was conducted focusing on the effectiveness of combination therapies for ED in therapeutic non-responders to PDE5I therapy. Journal articles spanning the time period between January 1990 and December 2010 were reviewed. Criteria included all pertinent review articles, randomized controlled trials, cohort studies and retrospective analyses. References from retrieved articles were also manually scanned for additional relevant publications. Published combination therapies include PDE5I plus vacuum erectile device (VED), intraurethral medication, intracavernosal injection (ICI), androgen supplement, α-blocker or miscellaneous combinations. Based on this review, some of these combination treatments appeared to be quite effective in preliminary testing. Caution must be advised, however, as the majority of combination therapy articles in the last decade have numerous limitations including study biases and small subject size. Regardless of limitations, present combination therapy research provides a solid foundation for future studies in complex ED management.

  1. Treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients with cardiovascular disease : guide to drug selection.

    PubMed

    Jackson, Graham

    2004-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common in cardiac patients and shares the same risk factors--smoking, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and diabetes mellitus. Sexual activity is not unduly stressful to the heart and, providing patients are properly assessed using established guidelines, sexual intercourse can be enjoyed without increased risk. The treatment of ED in patients with cardiovascular disease has been transformed by the introduction of the oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, the first of which was sildenafil. Success in restoring erectile function is possible in up to 80% of patients (depending on the aetiology) with minimal adverse effects. A synergistic hypotensive effect with nitrates, and almost certainly nicorandil, is the only major contraindication. ED in asymptomatic patients may be a marker of silent vascular disease or increased vascular risk factors and should alert the physician to the need for cardiac risk screening. ED is common in patients with cardiovascular disease and should be routinely enquired about. ED is a distressing condition for the man and his partner, and severely impairs quality of life. Patients with cardiovascular disease and patients with diabetes represent the largest group of patients with ED, the majority of whom benefit from the drug therapies currently available. Addressing ED in patients with cardiovascular disease can lead to a substantial improvement in quality of life and success is not difficult to achieve.

  2. Erectile dysfunction and sexual health after radical prostatectomy: impact of sexual motivation.

    PubMed

    Messaoudi, R; Menard, J; Ripert, T; Parquet, H; Staerman, F

    2011-01-01

    The life expectancy of patients with localized prostate cancer at treatment initiation has increased, and post-treatment quality of life has become a key issue. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of Radical prostatectomy (RP) on patients' sexual health and satisfaction according to sexual motivation using a self-administered questionnaire completed by two groups of RP patients, with high or lower levels of sexual motivation. A total of 63 consecutive patients were included (mean age, 63.9 years), of whom 74.6% were being treated for erectile dysfunction (ED). After RP, patients reported lower sexual desire (52.4%), reduced intercourse frequency (79.4%), anorgasmia (39.7%), less satisfying orgasm (38.1%), climacturia (25.4%), greater distress (68.3%) and/or lower partner satisfaction (56.5%). Among the most sexually motivated patients, 76.0% reported loss of masculine identity, 52% loss of self-esteem and 36.0% anxiety about performance. These rates were lower among less motivated patients (52.6, 28.9, and 18.4%, respectively). Mean overall satisfaction score was 4.8 ± 2.9. The score was significantly lowered in motivated than less motivated patients (3.4 vs 5.8) (P = 0.001). In conclusion, RP adversely affected erectile and orgasmic functions but also sexual desire, self-esteem and masculinity. The more motivated patients experienced greater distress and were less satisfied.

  3. Sexual dysfunction in testicular cancer patients subjected to post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection: a focus beyond ejaculation disorders.

    PubMed

    Dimitropoulos, K; Karatzas, A; Papandreou, C; Daliani, D; Zachos, I; Pisters, L L; Tzortzis, V

    2016-05-01

    Post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (PC-RPLND) represents an integral part of multidisciplinary treatment of advanced germ cell cancer; however, it is associated with a high complications rate. The present study aimed to describe sexual disorders in 53 patients with testicular cancer who underwent full bilateral, non-nerve-sparing PC-RPLND in our institution, focusing beyond ejaculatory dysfunction. The International Index for Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire was used as diagnostic tool of male sexual functioning pre-operatively and three months after RPLND, while post-operatively patients were asked to describe and evaluate changes in selected sexual parameters. Study findings demonstrate mixed pattern of changes in sexual functioning, with no difference in erectile functioning before and after operation. However, orgasmic function and intercourse and overall sexual satisfaction were found significantly impaired post-operatively. Sexual desire and frequency of attempted sexual intercourses were found significantly increased post-operatively, in comparison with pre-operative levels. With regard to patients' subjective perception on sexual functioning alterations after PC-RPLND, a significant number of patients reported higher levels of sexual desire, no difference in erectile function and worse orgasmic function and satisfaction post-operatively. Thus, patients subjected to PC-RPLND should be closely and routinely evaluated due to close relationship of sexual dissatisfaction with secondary psychological disorders. © 2015 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

  4. Unconsummated marriage: clarification of aetiology; treatment with intracorporeal injection.

    PubMed

    Zargooshi, J

    2000-07-01

    To clarify the aetiological factors in unconsummated marriage in Iran, and to report the results of intracorporeal injection therapy for erectile dysfunction in these circumstances. During a 2-year period, 200 cases of unconsummated marriage were evaluated. A detailed history was obtained to clarify the circumstances of the problem; if simple measures failed to resolve the problem, intracorporeal injection with papaverine +/- phentolamine was used. The main factor associated with an unconsummated marriage was the intense social pressure to accomplish hasty coitus with an unfamiliar woman (some men having had no social contact with their new bride) and in the presence of relatives waiting nearby for evidence of the bride's virginity and confirmation of coitus. The initial problem was then further compounded with resultant erectile failure caused by anxiety about sexual performance. Inability to consummate the marriage was caused by premature ejaculation in 23%, erectile dysfunction in 61%, and a combination in 16%; 70% of patients were able to consummate the union after intracorporeal injection with papaverine +/- phentolamine. In addition to psychological causes and a lack of sexual education, the social circumstances in which partners are obliged to initiate and complete coitus are important factors in the aetiology of unconsummated marriage. Intracorporeal injection is useful in treating this problem and it should be the therapy of choice for unconsummated marriage in developing countries, where the conditions do not favour psychotherapy and where alternative erectogenic agents are expensive or unavailable.

  5. Combined Effects of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Immobilized Poly-Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid Membrane with Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells and Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Hydrogel on Recovery of Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Seung Hwan; Kim, In Gul; Jung, Ae Ryang; Shrestha, Kshitiz Raj; Lee, Jin Ho; Park, Ki Dong; Chung, Byung Ha; Kim, Sae Woong; Kim, Ki Hean

    2014-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most frequent long-term problem after radical prostatectomy. We aimed to evaluate whether the use of combination therapy with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-hydrogel on corpus cavernosum and with adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-immobilized poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) membrane on the cavernous nerve (CN) could improve erectile function in a rat model of bilateral cavernous nerve crush injury (BCNI). Rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=15 per group): a normal group (N group), a group receiving saline application after bilateral cavernous nerve crush injury (BCNI), a group undergoing bFGF-hydrogel injection in the corpus cavernosum after BCNI (bFGF), a group receiving ADSC application covered with BDNF-membrane after BCNI (ADSC/BDNF), and a group undergoing coadministration of bFGF-hydrogel injection and BDNF-membrane with ADSCs after BDNF (bFGF+ADSC/BDNF). Four weeks postoperatively, the erectile function was assessed by detecting the ratio of intracavernous pressure (ICP) to mean arterial pressure (MAP). Smooth muscle and collagen contents were measured using Masson's trichrome staining. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression in the dorsal penile nerve was detected by immunostaining. The protein expression of the α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) level of the corpus cavernosum were quantified by western blot and cGMP assay, respectively. In the bFGF+ADSC/BDNF group, the erectile function was significantly elevated compared with the BCNI and other treated groups and showed a significantly increased smooth muscle/collagen ratio, nNOS content, α-SMA expression, and cGMP level. In particular, there were no statistical differences in the ICP/MAP ratio, smooth muscle/collagen ratio, and α-SMA and cGMP levels between the bFGF+ADSC/BDNF group and normal group. Application of the BDNF-immobilized PLGA membrane with human ADSC into the CN and bFGF-incorporated hydrogel into the corpus carvernosum improved nearly normal erectile function in a rat model of postprostatectomy ED. This result suggests that a combined application of bFGF+ADSC/BDNF might be a promising treatment for postprostatectomy ED. PMID:24673637

  6. Penile Doppler sonographic and clinical characteristics in Peyronie's disease and/or erectile dysfunction: an analysis of 1500 men with male sexual dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Chung, Eric; Yan, Hanmu; De Young, Ling; Brock, Gerald B

    2012-10-01

    What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Penile colour Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) can be an invaluable investigative tool to characterize penile abnormalities to complement clinical history and physical examination in the evaluation of men with Peyronie's disease (PD) and/or erectile dysfunction (ED). Although CDU findings between men with PD and those with ED were not markedly different, subtle differences were observed. The classic penile CDU findings in men with PD comprise tunical thickening, intracavernosal fibrosis, septal fibrosis and intracavernosal calcification, while, in men with ED, low peak systolic velocity and high end-diastolic velocity are found on penile haemodynamics. Previously published studies have focused predominantly on either ED or PD exclusively, or examine the risk of progression to ED in the PD population. To our knowledge, this is the largest and most comprehensive analysis of penile CDU and clinical findings in men with PD and/or ED. The large sample size and multivariable analysis allow meaningful interpretation of the results. This study has found some substantial differences in the penile CDU findings of men with PD and/or ED that have not previously been reported. Although the risk factors of ED may be greater than those for PD, there is crossover in age, cardiovascular risk factors, trauma and penile CDU findings in men with PD and/or ED. To explore the differences in penile colour Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) findings between men with Peyronie's disease (PD) and those with erectile dysfunction (ED). Patients presenting with PD and/or ED who underwent penile CDU were recruited to the study. Patient demographics, comorbidities, International Index of Erectile Function-5 scores, previous therapies and physical findings were documented. Penile curvature, presence of tunical thickening, septal fibrosis, intracavernosal fibrosis and calcification, and cavernosal vascular status were recorded. A total of 1500 men underwent penile CDU during the 10-year period. Of these men, 891 men presented with PD and 609 men had ED only. Men with ED had higher rates of diabetes and coronary artery disease (P < 0.05). Isolated tunical thickening was more common in older men and in the PD cohort. The presence of intracavernosal fibrosis correlated strongly with difficulty maintaining erection (P < 0.05). Impaired cavernosal arterial flow was observed in men with decrease penile rigidity and penile pain, while higher end-diastolic velocities were found in men with difficulty maintaining erection and tunical thickening on penile CDU. Men with PD and ED had many similarities and differences on penile CDU. Penile CDU continues to be an invaluable clinical tool in the management of men with male sexual dysfunction. © 2012 BJU INTERNATIONAL.

  7. Combination therapy for male erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence.

    PubMed

    Zafirakis, Helen; Wang, Run; Westney, O Lenaine

    2008-01-01

    Urinary incontinence (UI) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are both very prevalent conditions. Insertion of an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) and penile prosthesis (PP) is an effective and proven method of treatment for both conditions. With advancing age, as well as with increasing populations of patients radically treated for prostate cancer, the occurrence of both conditions found in the same patient is increasing. The purpose of this article was to analyze the available evidence for simultaneous surgical management of male ED and UI using prosthetic devices. The existing literature pertaining to dual implantation of AUS and PP was reviewed. The concomitant insertion of the PP with the male perineal sling was also considered. Concurrent ED and UI are increasingly seen in the post radical prostatectomy population, who are often younger and less willing to suffer with these conditions. Insertion of an AUS and PP, either simultaneously or as a two-stage procedure, appears to be a safe, efficacious and long-lasting method of treatment. The improvements in design of both the AUS and PP as well as the development of the single transverse scrotal incision have made simultaneous insertion of these prostheses possible. Dual implantation of the PP and male sling looks promising in a selected population. In conclusion, the insertion of the AUS and PP for the treatment of concurrent UI and ED is safe and effective. Simultaneous insertion of these prostheses in the same patient offers potential advantages in operative and recovery time and is associated with high patient satisfaction. Combination therapy should therefore be included in the arsenal of treatment of these conditions.

  8. Development and validation of the Self-Esteem And Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire in erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Cappelleri, J C; Althof, S E; Siegel, R L; Shpilsky, A; Bell, S S; Duttagupta, S

    2004-02-01

    Development and validation of a patient-reported measure of psychosocial variables in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) is described. Literature review, focus groups, and medical specialists identified 86 potential items. Redundant, ambiguous, or low item-to-total correlation items were removed. Data from 98 men reporting diagnosed ED and 94 controls assisted in final item selection and psychometric evaluation. Treatment responsiveness was evaluated in 93 men with ED in a 10-week open-label trial of sildenafil citrate (Viagra). The 14 chosen items resolved into two domains: Sexual Relationship (eight items) and Confidence (six items), the latter comprising Self-Esteem (four items) and Overall Relationship (two items) subscales. The resulting Self-Esteem And Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire demonstrated validity and reliability. The intervention study demonstrated responsiveness to beneficial treatment with significant improvement in scores (P=0.0001). The SEAR questionnaire possesses strong psychometric properties that support its validity and reliability for measuring sexual relationship, confidence, and particularly self-esteem.

  9. Current Diagnosis and Management of Erectile Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Pastuszak, Alexander W.

    2015-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects a growing number of men in the USA and abroad, with significant impacts on sexual function and overall quality of life. The risk factors for ED are numerous and include a strong link to cardiovascular disease, such that men with ED should be screened for cardiovascular disease. The evaluation of men presenting with ED includes a comprehensive history and physical exam to aid in the identification of comorbidities as well as laboratory testing to evaluate hormone and lipid levels and sugar metabolism. Adjunct studies are also available, though their utility is often limited to specific subtypes of ED. Once the etiology of ED is established, treatment can be initiated using appropriate medical therapies, including phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, and transurethral or intracavernosal therapies, with surgical intervention via revascularization or penile prosthesis placement in men demonstrating a lack of response to medical therapy. In all cases of ED, a psychogenic component is present and referral for psychological intervention with or without medical therapy should be considered. PMID:25878565

  10. Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction and Associated Factors in Korean Older Adults With Coronary Artery Disease.

    PubMed

    Son, Youn-Jung; Jang, Miyoun; Jun, Eun-Young

    2016-10-01

    The current study aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors of erectile dysfunction (ED) among 161 Korean adults 60 and older with coronary artery disease (CAD). ED was diagnosed in 72.2% of patients-the prevalence of which was significantly associated with age, education, employment, monthly income, frequency of sexual intercourse, body mass index, and low-density lipoprotein. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was lower in patients with ED than in those without ED (p < 0.001). Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that ED significantly influenced HRQoL in patients with CAD after adjusting for sociodemographic and disease-related characteristic variables (p < 0.001). Interventions and training courses for health care providers should focus on improving caregivers' knowledge and communication skills with patients and spouses regarding sexual health. Furthermore, guidelines to improve HRQoL in patients with CAD should consider incorporating sexual counseling. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 42(10), 32-41.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

  11. Sexual desire, erectile dysfunction and the biomedicalization of sex in older heterosexual men.

    PubMed

    Gledhill, Susan; Schweitzer, Robert D

    2014-04-01

    To examine sexual desire in older age and the use of pharmaceuticals for sexual enhancement in the context of erectile dysfunction. The ability of the older person to fulfil sexual desire has not been well supported in Western society. The paper draws on themes that emerged during a phenomenological study of sexual desire in older age. Narratives were collected between 2008-2010 from in-depth interviews with six men and two women aged 65-84 years who were part of a larger Australian study of sexual desire in older age. Emergent themes reveal that for some older people, the biomedicalization of sex can be a disappointing experience. The findings illuminate the need for nurses who are at the front line of health care, health policy makers and educators, to consider sexual desire experienced in older age in the context of sexual health and healthy ageing. This study will contribute to a growing body of knowledge about sexual desire in older age. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  12. [TECAR therapy for Peyronie’s disease: a phase-one prospective study. Great evidence in patients with erectile dysfunction].

    PubMed

    Pavone, Carlo; Castrianni, Davide; Romeo, Salvatore; Napoli, Enrica; Usala, Manuela; Gambino, Giuseppa; Scaturro, Dalila; Letizia Mauro, Giulia

    2013-01-01

    Our phase-one prospective study wants to evaluate the safety and tolerability of TECAR therapy in the treatment of Peyronie’s disease. From June 2011 to September 2012 we enrolled 70 patients. Each patient had been previously subjected to andrological examination, to a questionnaire for the evaluation of IPP and ED, and the SF-36 (V1) for the evaluation of the general state of health. The evaluation of pain was made using the VAS scale of pain. Every patient was subjected to TECAR treatment of the fibrotic plaque (both in resistive mode and in capacitive mode) for a total of three sessions carried out on consecutive days. We recorded a good compliance by patients; none of them reported side effects. Pain was decreased by the technique in 80% of the cases.The whole sample completed the study. Surprisingly enough those patients who complained also of erectile dysfunction, reported an improvement in sexual potency.

  13. Adulterated and Counterfeit Male Enhancement Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements Pose a Real Threat to the Management of Erectile Dysfunction: A Global Perspective.

    PubMed

    ElAmrawy, Fatema; ElAgouri, Ghada; Elnoweam, Ola; Aboelazayem, Samar; Farouk, ElMohanad; Nounou, Mohamed I

    2016-11-01

    Erectile dysfunction prevalence globally is noticeably high. This is accompanied by an increase in the use of nutraceuticals for male enhancement. However, the global market is invaded by counterfeit and adulterated nutraceuticals claimed to be of natural origin sold with a therapeutic claim. The objective of this article is to review male enhancement nutraceuticals worldwide with respect to claim, adulterants, and safety. The definition of such products is variable across countries. Thus, the registration procedures differ as well. This facilitates the manipulation of the process, which leads to widespread adulterated and counterfeit products without control. The tele-advertisement and Internet pharmacies aided the widespread sale of male enhancement nutraceuticals, unfortunately, the spurious ones. Finally, based on literature, most of these products were found to be adulterated with active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and mislabeled as being natural. These products represent a major health hazard for consumers due to lack of clear regulations.

  14. Prevalence of erectile dysfunction and associated factors among men without concomitant diseases: a population study.

    PubMed

    Nicolosi, A; Glasser, D B; Moreira, E D; Villa, M

    2003-08-01

    We interviewed a population sample of 2412 men aged 40-70 y in Brazil, Italy, Japan and Malaysia about medical history, lifestyle habits and sexual behavior. Men were classified as having moderate or complete erectile dysfunction (ED) if they reported to be sometimes or never able to achieve and maintain an erection satisfactory for sexual intercourse, respectively. There were 1335 men with no diagnosis of cardiovascular or prostate diseases, diabetes, ulcer or depression, nor taking hormones. The prevalence of ED was 16.1%. ED was associated with age (the risk increased 8% per y), moderate (odds ratio (OR)=2.2) or severe (OR=4.9) lower urinary tract symptoms and smoking (OR=2.3 for >30 cigarettes/day). It was inversely associated with physical activity (OR=0.5) and higher educational levels. Between the ages of 40 and 70 y, almost one in six 'healthy' men is affected by ED. Further research should look at preclinical disease stages and genetic factors.

  15. The Princeton III Consensus Recommendations for the Management of Erectile Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Disease

    PubMed Central

    Nehra, Ajay; Jackson, Graham; Miner, Martin; Billups, Kevin L.; Burnett, Arthur L.; Buvat, Jacques; Carson, Culley C.; Cunningham, Glenn R.; Ganz, Peter; Goldstein, Irwin; Guay, Andre T.; Hackett, Geoff; Kloner, Robert A.; Kostis, John; Montorsi, Piero; Ramsey, Melinda; Rosen, Raymond; Sadovsky, Richard; Seftel, Allen D.; Shabsigh, Ridwan; Vlachopoulos, Charalambos; Wu, Frederick C.W.

    2012-01-01

    The Princeton Consensus (Expert Panel) Conference is a multispecialty collaborative tradition dedicated to optimizing sexual function and preserving cardiovascular health. The third Princeton Consensus met November 8 to 10, 2010, and had 2 primary objectives. The first objective focused on the evaluation and management of cardiovascular risk in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and no known cardiovascular disease (CVD), with particular emphasis on identification of men with ED who may require additional cardiologic work-up. The second objective focused on reevaluation and modification of previous recommendations for evaluation of cardiac risk associated with sexual activity in men with known CVD. The Panel's recommendations build on those developed during the first and second Princeton Consensus Conferences, first emphasizing the use of exercise ability and stress testing to ensure that each man's cardiovascular health is consistent with the physical demands of sexual activity before prescribing treatment for ED, and second highlighting the link between ED and CVD, which may be asymptomatic and may benefit from cardiovascular risk reduction. PMID:22862865

  16. Association of Lifestyle-Related Comorbidities With Periodontitis

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Jae-Hong; Lee, Jung-Seok; Park, Jin-Young; Choi, Jung-Kyu; Kim, Dong-Wook; Kim, Young-Taek; Choi, Seong-Ho

    2015-01-01

    Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the association of periodontitis with lifestyle-related comorbidities (LCs) using data in the Korean National Health Insurance Cohort Database from 2002 to 2013. This was a retrospective study involving a large national cohort with patient samples (representing 2% of the total Korean population) stratified on the basis of sociodemographic information. Using this precisely extracted database, the correlations between LCs (cerebral infarction, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, erectile dysfunction, osteoporosis, and obesity) and periodontitis were investigated while adjusting for confounding bias. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate differences in variable factors. Among a total of 1,025,340 samples, 321,103 (31.3%) cases were diagnosed with periodontitis. Statistically significant associations were found between all LCs except myocardial infarction and periodontitis (P < 0.005). Periodontitis is significantly and positively correlated with LCs (except for myocardial infarction) after adjusting for confounding bias. In particular, lifestyle-related diseases, erectile dysfunction, and osteoporosis seem to be intimately related to periodontitis. PMID:26376407

  17. [Sexual disorders in epilepsy. Results of a multidisciplinary evaluation].

    PubMed

    Silva, H C; Carvalho, M J; Jorge, C L; Cunha Neto, M B; Goes, P M; Yacubian, E M

    1999-09-01

    Eleven epileptic men who complained of epilepsy and sexual dysfunction were submitted to a multidisciplinary evaluation. Mean age was 27 years (20-34), mean epilepsy duration was 19 years (0.5-32) and the mean seizure frequency was two by week (0-7). Ten patients had partial seizures and one other had myoclonic epilepsy. Ten patients were treated with antiepileptic drugs (phenytoin--1, carbamazepine--8, clonazepam--3, clobazam--2, valproic acid--3, vigabatrin--1). As defined in the DSM III-R, the complaints were: erectile disorder (9), hypoactive sexual desire disorder (4), frotteurism (4), inhibited orgasm (3), premature ejaculation (3), fetishism (2), voyeurism (2), exhibitionism (2), pedophilia (1) and sexual aversion disorder (1). Two patients showed hypogonadotropic hypogonadism on endocrinologic screening. Urological evaluation disclosed organic erectile dysfunction in other two. One patient had a diagnosis of psychogenic sexual disorder. In six patients a conclusive etiologic diagnosis was not reached. This report shows the multifactorial nature of sexual disorder in epilepsy and underlies the need of a multidisciplinar evaluation.

  18. Can written information material help to increase treatment motivation in patients with erectile dysfunction? A survey of 1188 men.

    PubMed

    Günzler, C; Kriston, L; Stodden, V; Leiber, C; Berner, M M

    2007-01-01

    Although erectile dysfunction (ED) prevalence is high, patients and physicians often have problems discussing this issue. This study examines whether written information material increases motivation to seek treatment in patients with ED. For the study, persons were able to order information material about sexual problems within the context of a public campaign. From a total of 70,000 responders, 8000 persons were asked to fill out an epidemiological questionnaire. The response rate yielded 18.4%, the data of 1188 men with ED were analyzed. As a result of the information material, 28.3% of the untreated men intended to seek treatment and 38.5% of the men who had not spoken with their physician about their problem, planned to do so now. Nearly all responders were satisfied with the information material. These data reflect the usefulness of written information for men with ED. It not only serves as an informational source for patients but may also encourage them to seek treatment.

  19. The role of the 'lifestyle' label and negative bias in the allocation of health resources for erectile dysfunction drugs: an ethics-based appraisal.

    PubMed

    Manson, H

    2006-01-01

    There have been recent calls for the re-evaluation of health resource allocation for erectile dysfunction (ED) drugs. This paper discusses sociocultural prejudices associated with ED and its treatment, arising from the link with sexuality, the perception that ED is a 'lifestyle' issue and the belief that ED is part of the normal ageing process. These views diminish the perceived importance of sexual health, extending subjectively into the funding arena as a 'negative bias'. Empirical data are presented, which demonstrate that ED can have significant psychosocial consequences, and that ED drugs are valuable quality-of-life interventions. The assumption that ED is an inevitable part of ageing is also analysed and found to be questionable. Health resource allocation decisions for ED drugs must be conducted with an awareness of the ethical and clinical complexities described in this paper, and with the sensibility that negative personal value judgments (on the part of policymakers) must be guarded against.

  20. Erectile dysfunction treatment and traditional medicine—can East and West medicine coexist?

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Joe K. C.; Tan, Ronny B. W.

    2017-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual problem affecting many men irrespective of cultures, beliefs and nationalities. While medical therapy for ED has been revolutionized by the advent of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and intracavernosal injection of vasoactive agents, recent technological advances such stem cell therapy, low intensity shock wave and newer generation of penile prosthesis implant offer hope to men who do not respond to conventional medical therapy. In contrast, traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) focuses on the restoration and better overall bodily regulation with the use of various herbal and animal products as well as exercises to invigorate qi (energy) in vital organs. Western medicine involves an analysis of ED symptom and underlying causes that contribute to ED, while TCM emphases the concept of holism and harmonization of body organs to achieve natural sexual life. The following article reviews our current understanding regarding the philosophical approach, and evaluates the evidence surrounding various ED therapies between mainstream Western Medicine and TCM. PMID:28217454

  1. Erectile dysfunction treatment and traditional medicine-can East and West medicine coexist?

    PubMed

    Lee, Joe K C; Tan, Ronny B W; Chung, Eric

    2017-02-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual problem affecting many men irrespective of cultures, beliefs and nationalities. While medical therapy for ED has been revolutionized by the advent of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and intracavernosal injection of vasoactive agents, recent technological advances such stem cell therapy, low intensity shock wave and newer generation of penile prosthesis implant offer hope to men who do not respond to conventional medical therapy. In contrast, traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) focuses on the restoration and better overall bodily regulation with the use of various herbal and animal products as well as exercises to invigorate qi (energy) in vital organs. Western medicine involves an analysis of ED symptom and underlying causes that contribute to ED, while TCM emphases the concept of holism and harmonization of body organs to achieve natural sexual life. The following article reviews our current understanding regarding the philosophical approach, and evaluates the evidence surrounding various ED therapies between mainstream Western Medicine and TCM.

  2. The use of a single daily dose of tadalafil to treat signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Gacci, Mauro; Salvi, Matteo; Sebastianelli, Arcangelo; Vignozzi, Linda; Corona, Giovanni; McVary, Kevin T; Kaplan, Steven A; Maggi, Mario; Carini, Marco; Oelke, Matthias

    2013-01-01

    A strong and independent association between lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) and erectile dysfunction (ED) has been widely evidenced in several clinical epidemiologic studies. Preclinical animal models have provided a great deal of information on potential common pathogenic mechanisms underlying these two clinical identities. Although the efficacy of the most commonly used treatments for LUTS/BPH is well defined, the negative impact of these treatments on sexual function – in particular, on ED – has triggered the search for new treatment options. In this regard, a new role for phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in the treatment of LUTS/BPH and ED has been claimed. Tadalafil is one of the most extensively investigated phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for this new indication. All evidence reported to date suggests that tadalafil 5 mg once daily is a safe and effective treatment option for both LUTS/BPH and ED. PMID:24400241

  3. Peptide amphiphile nanofiber hydrogel delivery of sonic hedgehog protein to the cavernous nerve to promote regeneration and prevent erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Choe, Shawn; Bond, Christopher W; Harrington, Daniel A; Stupp, Samuel I; McVary, Kevin T; Podlasek, Carol A

    2017-01-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) has high impact on quality of life in prostatectomy, diabetic and aging patients. An underlying mechanism is cavernous nerve (CN) injury, which causes ED in up to 80% of prostatectomy patients. We examine how sonic hedgehog (SHH) treatment with innovative peptide amphiphile nanofiber hydrogels (PA), promotes CN regeneration after injury. SHH and its receptors patched (PTCH1) and smoothened (SMO) are localized in PG neurons and glia. SMO undergoes anterograde transport to signal to downstream targets. With crush injury, PG neurons degenerate and undergo apoptosis. SHH protein decreases, SMO localization changes to the neuronal cell surface, and anterograde transport stops. With SHH treatment SHH is taken up at the injury site and undergoes retrograde transport to PG neurons, allowing SMO transport to occur, and neurons remain intact. SHH treatment prevents neuronal degeneration, maintains neuronal, glial and downstream target signaling, and is significant as a regenerative therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  4. Precision Medicine and Men's Health.

    PubMed

    Mata, Douglas A; Katchi, Farhan M; Ramasamy, Ranjith

    2017-07-01

    Precision medicine can greatly benefit men's health by helping to prevent, diagnose, and treat prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, infertility, hypogonadism, and erectile dysfunction. For example, precision medicine can facilitate the selection of men at high risk for prostate cancer for targeted prostate-specific antigen screening and chemoprevention administration, as well as assist in identifying men who are resistant to medical therapy for prostatic hyperplasia, who may instead require surgery. Precision medicine-trained clinicians can also let couples know whether their specific cause of infertility should be bypassed by sperm extraction and in vitro fertilization to prevent abnormalities in their offspring. Though precision medicine's role in the management of hypogonadism has yet to be defined, it could be used to identify biomarkers associated with individual patients' responses to treatment so that appropriate therapy can be prescribed. Last, precision medicine can improve erectile dysfunction treatment by identifying genetic polymorphisms that regulate response to medical therapies and by aiding in the selection of patients for further cardiovascular disease screening.

  5. [Erectile dysfunction drugs and women].

    PubMed

    Elia, D; Grivel, T; Lachowsky, M; Costa, P; Amar, E

    2005-09-01

    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is no more a taboo and the number of patients who are consulting a physician and asking for some help in this domain is growing every day. The quality of life of men presenting an ED and having access to treatments is continually improving. But what can be said concerning the partners' quality of life? Patients as much their partners clearly prefer lesser invasive therapeutics and the new oral drugs available present some advantages for the couples, and surely for a majority of female partners, willing to improve the spontaneity and the frequency of intercourse. It seems now obvious that the partner's help is one of the key points for a successful treatment. How will women facing this recovered virility react? What will they say in the secret of the consulting room? What could be exactly the role of the gynaecologist in assuming the female partner of a man treated for an ED? That is the object of the present article, dealing with quite an important matter.

  6. Abnormal brain structure as a potential biomarker for venous erectile dysfunction: evidence from multimodal MRI and machine learning.

    PubMed

    Li, Lingli; Fan, Wenliang; Li, Jun; Li, Quanlin; Wang, Jin; Fan, Yang; Ye, Tianhe; Guo, Jialun; Li, Sen; Zhang, Youpeng; Cheng, Yongbiao; Tang, Yong; Zeng, Hanqing; Yang, Lian; Zhu, Zhaohui

    2018-03-29

    To investigate the cerebral structural changes related to venous erectile dysfunction (VED) and the relationship of these changes to clinical symptoms and disorder duration and distinguish patients with VED from healthy controls using a machine learning classification. 45 VED patients and 50 healthy controls were included. Voxel-based morphometry (VBM), tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) and correlation analyses of VED patients and clinical variables were performed. The machine learning classification method was adopted to confirm its effectiveness in distinguishing VED patients from healthy controls. Compared to healthy control subjects, VED patients showed significantly decreased cortical volumes in the left postcentral gyrus and precentral gyrus, while only the right middle temporal gyrus showed a significant increase in cortical volume. Increased axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD) and mean diffusivity (MD) values were observed in widespread brain regions. Certain regions of these alterations related to VED patients showed significant correlations with clinical symptoms and disorder durations. Machine learning analyses discriminated patients from controls with overall accuracy 96.7%, sensitivity 93.3% and specificity 99.0%. Cortical volume and white matter (WM) microstructural changes were observed in VED patients, and showed significant correlations with clinical symptoms and dysfunction durations. Various DTI-derived indices of some brain regions could be regarded as reliable discriminating features between VED patients and healthy control subjects, as shown by machine learning analyses. • Multimodal magnetic resonance imaging helps clinicians to assess patients with VED. • VED patients show cerebral structural alterations related to their clinical symptoms. • Machine learning analyses discriminated VED patients from controls with an excellent performance. • Machine learning classification provided a preliminary demonstration of DTI's clinical use.

  7. Penile Prosthesis Surgery: Current Recommendations From the International Consultation on Sexual Medicine.

    PubMed

    Levine, Laurence A; Becher, Edgardo; Bella, Anthony; Brant, William; Kohler, Tobias; Martinez-Salamanca, Juan Ignacio; Trost, Landon; Morey, Allen

    2016-04-01

    Penile prosthesis implantation has emerged as a definitive treatment to restore sexual function to the motivated man with erectile dysfunction. Substantial improvements in the design of inflatable devices have been made since they first became available more than four decades ago. To review the history of the penile prosthesis, the indications, preoperative evaluation, and patient and partner satisfaction. The current approaches to addressing intra- and postoperative complications, provide an understanding of prosthesis infection, and placement of these devices will be reviewed. A committee of worldwide experts in this field was assembled during the 2015 International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) and performed a systematic review of the peer-reviewed published medical literature pertaining to penile prosthesis. Particular attention was given to higher level trials when available. Recommendations are based upon the Oxford Criteria. Unfortunately there is limited level 1 and 2 evidence, and where expert opinion was utilized, the decision was unanimous within the committee with a goal of presenting a clinically relevant guideline pertaining to penile prostheses. Penile prosthesis has undergone an evolution over the past 40 years resulting in a more effective and reliable treatment for advanced erectile dysfunction not responding to less invasive methods including oral treatment with PDE5 inhibitors, vacuum erection device, and intracorporal injection therapy. It should be considered an appropriate treatment option for the man who wishes to restore erectile function and who understands the potential risk of mechanical failure and infection, both of which are less common now as a result of improvements made in device design as well as surgical protocols adhered to in the operating room. Patients must be clearly informed of the risks associated with penile prosthesis including mechanical failure, infection, shortening of the penis, change in sensation and configuration of the penis, as well as injury to local structures. Intraoperative complications are unusual but do occur and can usually be addressed intraoperatively to allow placement of the device at the time of initial surgery. Postoperative complications may also be addressed when they occur but may require more advanced reconstructive surgical techniques. Men with Peyronie's disease, corporal fibrosis due to infection, trauma, prior prosthesis explantation, priapism, and men who have undergone construction of a neophallus may require additional advanced maneuvers to obtain optimum results with a penile prosthesis. Penile prosthesis remains as an important, viable, and effective treatment for male erectile dysfunction that does not respond to other less invasive approaches or when these approaches are contraindicated or not acceptable to the patient. These devices provide the patient with the ability to engage in penetrative sexual activity without interfering with urination, ejaculation, sensation, or orgasm. Although mechanical failure can occur, the current devices are more reliable as a result of design modifications. Infection remains the most dreaded complication but since the introduction of antibiotic and hydrophilic coatings, infection is less common. Overall, patient and partner satisfaction appear to be reasonably high when a penile prosthesis is used to restore erectile function. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Cigarette Smoking and Erectile Dysfunction: Focus on NO Bioavailability and ROS Generation

    PubMed Central

    Tostes, Rita C.; Carneiro, Fernando S.; Lee, Anthony J.; Giachini, Fernanda R.C.; Leite, Romulo; Osawa, Yoichi; Webb, R. Clinton

    2010-01-01

    Introduction Thirty million men in the United States suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) and this number is expected to double by 2025. Considered a major public health problem, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients and their partners, ED becomes increasingly prevalent with age and chronic smoking is a major risk factor in the development of ED. Aim To review available evidence concerning the effects of cigarette smoking on vascular changes associated with decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Methods We examined epidemiological and clinical data linking cigarette smoking and ED, and the effects of smoking on vascular NO bioavailability and ROS generation. Main Outcome Measures There are strong parallels between smoking and ED and considerable evidence supporting the concept that smoking-related ED is associated with reduced bioavailability of NO because of increased ROS. Results Cigarette smoking-induced ED in human and animal models is associated with impaired arterial flow to the penis or acute vasospasm of the penile arteries. Long-term smoking produces detrimental effects on the vascular endothelium and peripheral nerves and also causes ultrastructural damage to the corporal tissue, all considered to play a role in chronic smoking-induced ED. Clinical and basic science studies provide strong indirect evidence that smoking may affect penile erection by the impairment of endothelium-dependent smooth muscle relaxation or more specifically by affecting NO production via increased ROS generation. Whether nicotine or other products of cigarette smoke mediate all effects related to vascular damage is still unknown. Conclusions Smoking prevention represents an important approach for reducing the risk of ED. The characterization of the components of cigarette smoke leading to ED and the mechanisms by which these components alter signaling pathways activated in erectile responses are necessary for a complete comprehension of cigarette smoking-associated ED. PMID:18331273

  9. Late Patient-Reported Toxicity After Preoperative Radiotherapy or Chemoradiotherapy in Nonresectable Rectal Cancer: Results From a Randomized Phase III Study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Braendengen, Morten, E-mail: mortbrae@medisin.uio.no; Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm; Tveit, Kjell Magne

    Purpose: Preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is superior to radiotherapy (RT) in locally advanced rectal cancer, but the survival gain is limited. Late toxicity is, therefore, important. The aim was to compare late bowel, urinary, and sexual functions after CRT or RT. Methods and Materials: Patients (N = 207) with nonresectable rectal cancer were randomized to preoperative CRT or RT (2 Gy Multiplication-Sign 25 {+-} 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin). Extended surgery was often required. Self-reported late toxicity was scored according to the LENT SOMA criteria in a structured telephone interview and with questionnaires European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Lifemore » Questionnaire (QLQ-C30), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and sexual function -vaginal changes questionnaire (SVQ). Results: Of the 105 patients alive in Norway and Sweden after 4 to 12 years of follow-up, 78 (74%) responded. More patients in the CRT group had received a stoma (73% vs. 52%, p = 0.09). Most patients without a stoma (7 of 12 in CRT group and 9 of 16 in RT group) had incontinence for liquid stools or gas. No stoma and good anal function were seen in 5 patients (11%) in the CRT group and in 11 (30%) in the RT group (p = 0.046). Of 44 patients in the CRT group, 12 (28%) had had bowel obstruction compared with 5 of 33 (15%) in the RT group (p = 0.27). One-quarter of the patients reported urinary incontinence. The majority of men had severe erectile dysfunction. Few women reported sexual activity during the previous month. However, the majority did not have concerns about their sex life. Conclusions: Fecal incontinence and erectile dysfunction are frequent after combined treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer. There was a clear tendency for the problems to be more common after CRT than after RT.« less

  10. A 2-Stage Genome-Wide Association Study to Identify Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Associated With Development of Erectile Dysfunction Following Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kerns, Sarah L.; Departments of Pathology and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York; Stock, Richard

    2013-01-01

    Purpose: To identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with development of erectile dysfunction (ED) among prostate cancer patients treated with radiation therapy. Methods and Materials: A 2-stage genome-wide association study was performed. Patients were split randomly into a stage I discovery cohort (132 cases, 103 controls) and a stage II replication cohort (128 cases, 102 controls). The discovery cohort was genotyped using Affymetrix 6.0 genome-wide arrays. The 940 top ranking SNPs selected from the discovery cohort were genotyped in the replication cohort using Illumina iSelect custom SNP arrays. Results: Twelve SNPs identified in the discovery cohort and validated in themore » replication cohort were associated with development of ED following radiation therapy (Fisher combined P values 2.1 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -5} to 6.2 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -4}). Notably, these 12 SNPs lie in or near genes involved in erectile function or other normal cellular functions (adhesion and signaling) rather than DNA damage repair. In a multivariable model including nongenetic risk factors, the odds ratios for these SNPs ranged from 1.6 to 5.6 in the pooled cohort. There was a striking relationship between the cumulative number of SNP risk alleles an individual possessed and ED status (Sommers' D P value = 1.7 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -29}). A 1-allele increase in cumulative SNP score increased the odds for developing ED by a factor of 2.2 (P value = 2.1 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -19}). The cumulative SNP score model had a sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 75% for prediction of developing ED at the radiation therapy planning stage. Conclusions: This genome-wide association study identified a set of SNPs that are associated with development of ED following radiation therapy. These candidate genetic predictors warrant more definitive validation in an independent cohort.« less

  11. Association between personal basic information, sleep quality, mental disorders and erectile function: a cross-sectional study among 334 Chinese outpatients.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Q S; Liu, T; Huang, H B; Peng, Y F; Jiang, S C; Mei, X B

    2017-04-01

    Male erectile dysfunction (ED) may cause anxiety and depression, while mental disorders and sleep disturbances may also be closely related to ED. However, the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear, and whether personal basic background data affect erectile function is unknown. We conducted a cross-sectional study among Chinese outpatients with ED from January 2012 to December 2014. All the men answered a questionnaire collecting information about mental health status, sleep disturbances and personal data, underwent a physical examination and had a blood sample drawn. Sleep disturbances were assessed on the basis of a 19-item version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, which includes questions on sleep patterns during the past month. Among the 462 patients, 128 patients with alcohol abuse, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, psychiatric drugs, neurologic injury or abnormal hormones were excluded from the study; 86.27% and 68.66% of the patients suffered from anxiety and depression respectively. Sleep quality and anxiety symptoms significantly affected erectile function, whereas personal income and education level had no significant effects. Our study suggested that it is necessary to pay attention to the psychological status of patients with ED, especially anxiety disorder. Sleep quality may be an important factor affecting erectile function according to the personal data. © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

  12. Designed angiopoietin-1 variant, COMP-angiopoietin-1, rescues erectile function through healthy cavernous angiogenesis in a hypercholesterolemic mouse

    PubMed Central

    Ryu, Ji-Kan; Kim, Woo Jean; Koh, Young Jun; Piao, Shuguang; Jin, Hai-Rong; Lee, Sae-Won; Choi, Min Ji; Shin, Hwa-Yean; Kwon, Mi-Hye; Jung, Keehoon; Koh, Gou Young; Suh, Jun-Kyu

    2015-01-01

    Despite the advent of oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, curative treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) remains unavailable. Recently, the link between ED and cardiovascular disease was unveiled and the main etiology of ED was found to be vasculogenic. Therefore, neovascularization is a promising strategy for curing ED. Angiopoietin-1 (Ang1) is an angiogenic growth factor that promotes the generation of stable and functional vasculature. Here, we demonstrate that local delivery of the soluble, stable, and potent Ang1 variant, COMP-Ang1 gene or protein, into the penises of hypercholesterolemic mice increases cavernous angiogenesis, eNOS phosphorylation, and cGMP expression, resulting in full recovery of erectile function and cavernous blood flow up to 8 weeks after treatment. COMP-Ang1-induced promotion of cavernous angiogenesis and erectile function was abolished in Nos3-/- mice and in the presence of the NOS inhibitor, L-NAME. COMP-Ang1 also restored the integrity of endothelial cell-cell junction by down-regulating the expression of histone deacetylase 2 in the penis of hypercholesterolemic mice and in primary cultured mouse cavernous endothelial cells. These findings constitute a new paradigm toward curative treatment of both cavernous angiopathy and ED. PMID:25783805

  13. Vcsa1 acts as a marker of erectile function recovery after gene therapeutic and pharmacological interventions.

    PubMed

    Calenda, Giulia; Tong, Yuehong; Tar, Moses; Lowe, Daniel; Siragusa, Joseph; Melman, Arnold; Davies, Kelvin P

    2009-06-01

    We identified molecular markers of erectile function, particularly those responding to erectile dysfunction treatment. Sprague-Dawley retired breeder rats were intracorporeally injected with pVAX-hSlo, pSMAA-hSlo or the control plasmid pVAX. One week later the intracorporeal pressure-to-blood pressure ratio and gene expression were determined by microarray analysis and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Rat corporeal cells were transfected in vitro with pVAX-hSlo, pSMAA-hSlo or pVAX and the change in gene expression was determined. We also determined whether Vcsa1 expression was changed after pharmacotherapy using tadalafil. Animals treated with vectors expressing hSlo had significantly improved erectile function compared to that in controls, accompanied by changed expression of a subset of genes. Vcsa1 was one of the genes that was most changed in expression (the third of approximately 31,000 with greater than 10-fold up-regulation). Changes in gene expression were different than those observed in corporeal cells transfected in vitro, distinguishing gene expression changes that were a direct effect of hSlo over expression. When tadalafil was administered in retired breeder rats, the Vcsa1 transcript increased 4-fold in corporeal tissue compared to that in untreated controls. Our study identifies a set of genes that are changed in response to improved erectile function, rather than as a direct effect of treatment. We noted Vcsa1 may act as marker of the restoration of erectile function after gene transfer and pharmacotherapy.

  14. Sialorphin (the mature peptide product of Vcsa1) relaxes corporal smooth muscle tissue and increases erectile function in the ageing rat.

    PubMed

    Davies, Kelvin P; Tar, Moses; Rougeot, Catherine; Melman, Arnold

    2007-02-01

    To determine if the mature peptide product of the Vcsa1 gene, sialorphin, could restore erectile function in ageing rats, and whether these effects are mediated through relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue, as we recently reported that Vcsa1 is one of the most down-regulated genes in the corpora of rats in three distinct models of erectile dysfunction, and gene transfer of plasmids expressing Vcsa1 into the corpora of ageing rats restored erectile function. Sialorphin was injected intracorporeally into retired breeder rats, and the effect on the physiology of corporal tissue was analysed by intracorporal/blood pressure (ICP/BP) measurement at different times after injection. In organ-bath studies, the ability of sialorphin (1 microg/mL) to enhance C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue strips was investigated after pre-contraction with 1 microm phenylephrine. Intracorporal injection of 100 microg sialorphin into retired breeder rats resulted in a time-dependent increase in the ICP/BP response to electrostimulation of the cavernosal nerve. After 55-65 min the ICP/BP ratio increased to approximately 0.6, a value associated with normal erectile function. In organ-bath studies after pre-contraction with 1 microm phenylephrine, 1 microm CNP significantly (67%) increased the relaxation rate of corporal tissue. This rate of relaxation was increased by 2.5-fold after incubation with sialorphin (1 microg/mL) compared with carrier alone. These results show that sialorphin has a role in erectile function, probably through a mechanism that involves relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue.

  15. [Masturbation device (EGG) as a new penile rehabilitation tool: a pilot study].

    PubMed

    Sato, Yoshikazu; Tanda, Hitoshi; Nakajima, Hisao; Nitta, Toshikazu; Akagashi, Keigo; Hanzawa, Tatsuo; Tobe, Musashi; Haga, Kazunori; Uchida, Kosuke; Honma, Ichiya

    2013-05-01

    Erectile dysfunction following radical prostatectomy (RP) is still a significant burden as a post-operative morbidity, despite advances in nerve-sparing techniques and penile (erectile function) rehabilitation (PR) programs. We assessed the effects of stimulation with the masturbation device "EGG" on enhancement of erectile response along with administration of phospho diesterase type 5 inhibitor. We also studied the change of self-esteem and motivation for continuation of PR after stimulation with EGG. Eight nonresponders for PDE5-I who underwent retropubic RP were enrolled. Patients' median age was 71.5 years old. No patients received adjuvant therapy for prostate cancer. The patients' erectile response in the penile rehabilitation session (masturbation) with PDE5-I+manual stimulation and PDE5-I+stimulation with EGG were evaluated by erection hardness score (EHS). Changes of self-esteem and motivation for penile rehabilitation were assessed by the self-esteem subscale of the Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire and one original question, respectively. PDE5-I + stimulation with EGG significantly enhanced EHS compared to PDE5-I+manual stimulation in the eight patients (p=0.027). Transformed score of self-esteem subscale score of SEAR questionnaire was significantly increased in the PR session with EGG compared to the PR session with manual stimulation (p=0.043). Six patients who showed a better erectile response with EGG retained motivation for continuation of PR. PDE5-I+stimulation with EGG improved the erectile response in post-RP patients. EGG as a masturbation device may have a potential for contribution to successful PR.

  16. Asexuality Development among Middle Aged and Older Men

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Yan-Ping; Chen, Bin; Ping, Ping; Wang, Hong-Xiang; Hu, Kai; Yang, Hao; Zhang, Tao; Feng, Tan; Jin, Yan; Han, Yin-Fa; Wang, Yi-Xin; Huang, Yi-Ran

    2014-01-01

    Objectives To assess erectile function in middle-aged and older men with asexuality status and further analyze their specific reasons for this condition. Subjects and Methods Men who had regular sexual intercourse attempts (sex frequency≥1 time per month) were classified into mild erectile dysfunction (ED), moderate to severe ED and non-ED according to International Index of Erectile Function-5, and men having no sexual intercourse attempts for at least 6 months were defined as having an asexuality status. The risk factors associated with ED were collected in a sample of 1,531 Chinese men aged 40 to 80 years, and the self-report reasons for asexuality were recorded in asexual cohort individually. Comparative analyses and multivariate regression models were conducted among these groups. Results The prevalence rates of ED and asexuality status were 49.9% and 37.2%. The asexuality status group had higher risk factors than the moderate to severe ED group in terms of old age (age≥65, adjusted odds ratio (OR) 17.69 versus (Vs.) 7.19), diabetes (crude OR: 2.40 Vs. 2.36) and hypertension (crude OR: 1.78 Vs. 1.72). The specific reasons for the asexuality status were “erectile difficulty” (52.9%), “do not care about sexuality” (53.5%)”, “no longer necessary to have sexuality at this age” (47.7%), “severe stress” (44.4%), “severe fatigue” (26.3%) and “masturbation” (26.9%). Conclusions Men with an asexual status suffer from higher risk factors for ED than men with moderate to severe ED. The majority of this asexual status could be attributed to a full ED, although the reasons for this transient asexuality also involved sexual attitudes and interests, sexual partners and masturbation. PMID:24667838

  17. Saw palmetto extract enhances erectile responses by inhibition of phosphodiesterase 5 activity and increase in inducible nitric oxide synthase messenger ribonucleic acid expression in rat and rabbit corpus cavernosum.

    PubMed

    Yang, Surong; Chen, Changrui; Li, Yiying; Ren, Zhenghua; Zhang, Yungang; Wu, Gantong; Wang, Hao; Hu, Zhenzhen; Yao, Minghui

    2013-06-01

    To evaluate whether saw palmetto extract (SPE) relaxes corpus cavernosum and explore the underlying mechanisms. Forty Sprague-Dawley rats and 30 New Zealand rabbits were randomly allocated into 3 SPE-treated groups (low-, middle-, and high-dose) and 1 saline-treated control group. SPE was administered intragastrically for 7 consecutive days. Another 23 rats treated with sildenafil were used to appraise the erectile response to electrical stimulation of nerves in the corpus cavernosum. The erectile functions of rats and rabbits were evaluated 24 hours after the last SPE administration or 15 minutes after intragastric sildenafil. Outcome measures included corpus cavernosum electrical activity recording, phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) activity detected by the colorimetric quantitative method, and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression level for PDE5 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. In the SPE-treated animals, the relaxant response to electrical stimulation of nerves in the corpus cavernosum, reflected by the amplitude of the electrical activity within the cavernosum, was significantly and dose-dependently augmented. Similar effects were observed in the sildenafil-treated rats. PDE5 activity in rat and rabbit corpus cavernosum tissues was significantly and dose-dependently inhibited in SPE-treated animals, whereas the iNOS mRNA level increased compared with the saline group. PDE5 mRNA, however, was only significantly enhanced in the rats treated with the middle dose of SPE. The results suggest that SPE may have potential application value for the prevention or treatment of erectile dysfunction through an increase in iNOS mRNA expression and inhibition of PDE5 activity in corpus cavernosum smooth muscles. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. What couples say about their recovery of sexual intimacy after prostatectomy: toward the development of a conceptual model of couples’ sexual recovery after surgery for prostate cancer

    PubMed Central

    Wittmann, Daniela; Carolan, Marsha; Given, Barbara; Skolarus, Ted A.; Crossley, Heather; An, Lawrence; Palapattu, Ganesh; Clark, Patricia; Montie, James E.

    2015-01-01

    Introduction Interventions designed to help couples recover sexual intimacy after prostatectomy have not been guided by a comprehensive conceptual model. Aim We examined a proposed biopsychosocial conceptual model of couples’ sexual recovery that included functional, psychological and relational aspects of sexuality, surgery-related sexual losses, and grief and mourning as recovery process. Methods We interviewed twenty couples pre-operatively and 3-months post-operatively. between 2010 and 2012. Interviews were analyzed with Analytic Induction qualitative methodology, using NVivo software. Paired t-tests described functional assessment data. Study findings led to a revised conceptual model. Main Outcome Measures Couples’ experiences were assessed through semi-structured interviews; male participants’ sexual function was assessed with the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite and female participants’ sexual function with the Female Sexual Function Index. Results Pre-operatively, 30% of men had erectile dysfunction (ED), 84% of partners were post-menopausal. All valued sexual recovery, but worried about cancer spread and surgery side-effects. Faith in themselves and their surgeons led 90% of couples to overestimate erectile recovery. Post-operatively, most men had ED and lost confidence. Couples’ sexual activity decreased. Couples reported feeling loss and grief: cancer diagnosis was the first loss, followed by surgery-related sexual losses. Couples’ engagement in intentional sex, patients’ acceptance of erectile aids and partners’ interest in sex aided the recovery of couples’ sexual intimacy recovery. Unselfconscious sex, not return to erectile function baseline, was seen as the endpoint. Survey findings documented participants’ sexual function losses, confirming qualitative findings. Conclusions Couples’ sexual recovery requires addressing sexual function, feelings about losses and relationship simultaneously. Peri-operative education should emphasize the roles of nerve damage in ED and grief and mourning in sexual recovery. PMID:25358901

  19. Efficacy of Continuous Dosing of Tadalafil Once Daily vs Tadalafil On Demand in Clinical Subgroups of Men With Erectile Dysfunction: A Descriptive Comparison Using the Integrated Tadalafil Databases.

    PubMed

    Brock, Gerald; Ni, Xiao; Oelke, Matthias; Mulhall, John; Rosenberg, Matt; Seftel, Allen; D'Souza, Deborah; Barry, Jane

    2016-05-01

    Various factors play a role in the development of erectile dysfunction (ED). To provide a descriptive comparison of erectile function response for tadalafil on-demand (PRN) and once-daily (OAD) dosing regimens in patients with common comorbid conditions, treatments, or risk factors that can be considered when treating ED. In total, 17 PRN and 4 OAD placebo-controlled studies were included in the integrated database in these pooled analyses. Data were analyzed from patients treated with placebo, tadalafil 10 mg (low dose), and 20 mg (high dose) for the PRN studies and placebo, tadalafil 2.5 mg (low dose), and 5 mg (high dose) for the OAD studies. The effects of tadalafil were measured using the International Index of Erectile Function administered from baseline to week 12. A descriptive comparison of the efficacy of tadalafil PRN vs OAD was examined in the clinical populations. Baseline characteristics of 4,354 men were comparable between the PRN and OAD groups, with differences seen only in the variables of race, body mass index (BMI) of at least 30 kg/m(2), and alcohol use. Tadalafil was efficacious at improving erectile function for all clinical populations, except for the low-dose OAD group, which demonstrated a weaker effect vs placebo than the high-dose OAD group, and the low- and high-dose PRN groups vs placebo for patients with BMI of at least 30 kg/m(2) for patients without a cardiovascular disorder, smokers, patients with ED duration shorter than 1 year, and patients without previous phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor use. Tadalafil was efficacious for patients with or without diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and alcohol use at baseline. Tadalafil OAD and PRN regimens showed efficacy in patients with ED. No clinical populations of patients with ED seemed to benefit overwhelmingly from one dose regimen over the other. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Use of Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction following Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Xiao; Wang, Xinghuan; Liu, Tao; He, Qianwen; Wang, Yipeng; Zhang, Xinhua

    2014-01-01

    Prostate cancer is relatively common cancer occurring in males. Radical prostatectomy (RP) is the most effective treatment for a localized tumor but erectile dysfunction (ED) is common complication, even when bilateral nerve-sparing RP (BNSRP) is performed. Clinical trials have shown varied effectiveness of phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is) for treatment of post-BNSRP ED, but there remains controversy over the application of this treatment and no formal systematic review and meta-analysis for the use of PDE5-Is for this condition has been conducted. This review was to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of oral PDE5-Is for post-BNSRP ED. A database search was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The comparative efficacy of treatments was analyzed by fixed or random effect modeling. Erectile function was measured using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) question-2, 3 and the Global Assessment Question (GAQ). The rate and incidence of adverse events (AEs) were determined. The quality of included studies was appraised using the Cochrane Collaboration bias appraisal tool. Eight RCTs were included in the analyses. PDE5-Is were effective for treating post-BNSRP ED compared to placebo when erectile function was determined using the IIEF score [mean difference (MD) 5.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) (4.26–6.99)], SEP-2 [relative risk (RR) 1.63, 95% CI (1.18–2.25) ], SEP-3 [RR 2.00, 95% CI (1.27–3.15) ] and GAQ [RR 3.35, 95% CI (2.68–4.67) ]. The subgroup analysis could find a trend that longer treatment duration, higher dosage, on-demand dosing, sildenafil and mild ED are associated with more responsiveness to PDE5-Is. PDE5-Is were overall well tolerated with headache being the most commonly reported AE. Our data provides compelling evidence for the use of PDE5-Is as a primary treatment for post-BNSRP ED. However, further studies are required to optomize usage parameters (such as dosage and duration of treatment). PMID:24618671

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