Introduction:Physical examination and laboratory evaluation of men with erectile dysfunction (ED) are opportunities to identify potentially life-threatening etiologies and comorbid conditions.
Aim:To review genital anatomy, identify any physical abnormalities, assess for comorbid conditions, and reveal significant risk factors for ED.
Methods:Expert opinion was based on evidence-based medical literature and consensus discussions between members of this International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) standards committee.
Results: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.
Conclusions: 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.
Written by:
Ghanem HM, Salonia A, Martin-Morales A. Are you the author?
Department of Andrology, Sexology & STDs, Cairo University, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt; Department of Urology & Urological Research Institute (URI), Universiti Vita Saluta San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; Unidad Andrología, Servicio Urología, Hospital Regional Universitario Carlos Haya, Plaza Hospital Civil, Málaga, Spain.
Reference: J Sex Med. 2012 Apr 23. Epub ahead of print.
doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02734.x
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 22524416
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