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Antiretroviral therapy is associated with sexual dysfunction and with increased serum oestradiol levels in men
Harpal Lamba1, David Goldmeier, Nicola E Mackie
1Department of HIV Medicine & Sexual Health, St Mary's Hospital, Paddington, London W2 INY, UK. harpal.lamba@st-marys.nhs.uk
Abstract:
Our objective was to determine the relationship between highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), serum total oestradiol and sexual dysfunction in HIV-infected men. Sexual difficulties were recorded prospectively in a cohort of HIV-negative (or unknown status) gay/bisexual men (MSM) and a cohort of HIV-infected men. The HIV-infected men were divided into those on and not on HAART and by sexuality. Serum total oestradiol and testosterone levels were evaluated where possible. One hundred HIV-negative MSM and 73 HIV-infected men (88% MSM) were analysed. Low libido and erectile dysfunction (ED) were reported in the control group in 2% and 10% respectively. This compared to a prevalence of 26% for both problems in HIV-infected MSM not taking HAART. In those MSM on HAART reduced libido was noted in 48% and ED in 25%. In the group of men taking HAART the mean oestradiol level was 228 pmol/L and was significantly above normal limits. Low libido and ED are more commonly reported in HIV-infected men compared to gay men of negative or unknown status. HAART is associated with a higher prevalence of lack of sexual desire and raised serum oestradiol levels.
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