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[The endocrine basis of sexual dysfunction in the elderly]
1Arbeitskreis Andrologie der Deutschen Dermatologen (AAD), Abteilung Andrologie, Dermatologische Klinik, Klinikum der Philipps-Universität, Marburg. krause@mailer.uni-marburg.de
Der Urologe. Ausg. A
|October 25, 2000
Summary
Total testosterone levels do not directly correlate with sexual function in aging men. Further research is needed to determine if specific testosterone fractions or levels impact erectile dysfunction treatment efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Andrology
- Urology
Context:
- Aging men often experience sexual dysfunction.
- The role of testosterone in male sexual health is complex and debated.
- Previous research has yielded conflicting results regarding testosterone and sexual function.
Purpose:
- To investigate the direct association between total testosterone levels and sexual function in aging males.
- To explore the relationship between induced hypogonadism and sexual response.
- To examine the potential influence of testosterone levels on erectile dysfunction treatment outcomes.
Summary:
- A study of 169 patients found no direct link between total testosterone levels and sexual dysfunction in aging men.
- Experimental induction of hypogonadism via GnRH did not alter sexual reactions in volunteers.
- Animal studies suggest testosterone influences erectile mechanisms (intracavernous pressure, alpha-receptors, PDE5 activity), but human data is lacking.
Impact:
- Challenges the routine measurement of total testosterone for assessing sexual function in aging men.
- Suggests that other testosterone fractions might be more relevant, though they correlate closely with total testosterone.
- Highlights the need for further research into whether testosterone levels affect the success of erectile dysfunction therapies.