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Sexual dysfunction in males with chronic hepatitis C and antiviral therapy: interferon-induced functional androgen

M R Kraus1, A Schäfer, T Bentink

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medizinische Poliklinik, University of Würzburg, Klinikstrasse 6-8, D-97070 Würzburg, Germany. kraus_m@klinik.uni-wuerzburg.de

The Journal of Endocrinology
|April 23, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Antiviral therapy for hepatitis C can decrease male libido and cause erectile dysfunction. This study links these issues to reduced testosterone and increased depression during treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Endocrinology
  • Psychiatry

Background:

  • Hepatitis C antiviral therapy can cause sexual dysfunction in men.
  • Underlying factors contributing to sexual dysfunction during treatment are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of interferon-based antiviral therapy on male sexual function.
  • To assess the relationship between sex hormone levels, depression, and sexual dysfunction in patients with chronic hepatitis C.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of 34 male patients undergoing interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin therapy.
  • Monitored changes in free and total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, prolactin, sex hormone-binding globulin, FSH, and LH.
  • Assessed depression using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and sexual dysfunction via Symptom Checklist 90 Item Revised and a sexual arousal disorder scale.

Main Results:

  • Significant decreases in free and total testosterone levels were observed during therapy, correlating with reduced libido and sexual function.
  • Increased depression scores were associated with sexual dysfunction.
  • No significant correlation was found between androgen levels and depression.

Conclusions:

  • Hepatitis C antiviral therapy is associated with decreased sexual function in men.
  • This decrease is linked to both reduced androgen levels and increased depressive symptoms.
  • Findings suggest a multifactorial cause for sexual dysfunction during treatment, impacting patient care.

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