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Sexual Dysfunction in Patients With Chronic Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases: A neglected Issue
Lorenzo Romano1, Lucia Granata2, Ferdinando Fusco3
1Department of Neurosciences Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
Introduction:
Normal sexual activity is an important determinant of quality of life. Unfortunately, several chronic health disorders are associated with an impaired sexual function.
Objective:
To provide coverage of the current literature on prevalence and pathophysiology of sexual dysfunction in patients with gastrointestinal and liver disorders.
Methods:
A Comprehensive review of the literature on the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in chronic gastrointestinal and liver disorders, assessing the underlying mechanism (s) was performed.
Results:
Many gastrointestinal disorders, either functional or organic, are associated with some degree of sexual dysfunction. The main pathogenic mechanisms are: (i) the disease itself causing fatigue, anxiety or depression with a potential alteration of self-esteem; (ii) worry of transmitting a potential infectious agent through sexual activity; (iii) alteration of the endocrine mechanisms which are necessary for normal sexual functioning; (iv) chronic pro- inflammatory conditions which may cause endothelial dysfunction and abnormal vascular responses; (v) iatrogenic.
Conclusion:
Based on this review, a thorough evaluation of sexual function through validated questionnaires and/or psychological interviews with patients with chronic gastrointestinal disorders should be part of the clinical assessment in order to timely diagnose and possibly treat sexual dysfunction in this clinical setting.
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