Validation of the Electronic Version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5 and IIEF-15): A Crossover Study

BACKGROUND

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are increasingly used to measure patient's perspective of functional well-being, disease burden, treatment effectiveness, and clinical decision making. Electronic versions are increasingly feasible because of smartphone and tablet usage. However, validation of these electronic PROMs (ePROMs) is warranted for justified implementation. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) 5 and 15 are widely used PROMs in urology to measure erectile dysfunction. Measurement reliability and validity testing of the IIEF ePROMs are essential before clinical application.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess reliability and validity of an ePROM version of both IIEF-5 and 15.

METHODS

This study included 179 patients from our urology outpatient clinic. It also had a randomized crossover design-participants completed either a paper and electronic IIEF-5 or 15 or twice completed an electronic version-with a 5-day delay. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach alpha and Spearman-Brown coefficient, test-retest reliability using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and convergent validity using the Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

A total of 122 participants completed the study. Internal consistency was excellent for the electronic IIEF-5 (ICC 0.902) and good to excellent for the domains of the IIEF-15 (ICC 0.962-0.834). Test-retest reliability was excellent for the IIEF-5 (ICC 0.924) and good to excellent for the domains of the IIEF-15 (ICC 0.950-0.778). Convergent validity was excellent for the IIEF-5 and IIEF-15, with a correlation of r=0.923 and r=0.951, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We successfully introduced patient-acceptable ePROM versions of the IIEF-5 and IIEF-15. This study's results demonstrate that the ePROM versions of the IIEF-5 and IIEF-15 can be reliably implemented, as outcomes are reliable and in accordance with findings of the paper version.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03222388; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03222388.

Association between sarcopenia and erectile dysfunction in males with type II diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

The prevalence rates for both sarcopenia and erectile dysfunction (ED) gradually increase in middle-aged and elderly diabetic male population and they impair physical functioning, sexual functioning, and quality of life. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the sarcopenia in patients with diabetic ED.

METHODS

The study included 98 male patients with type II diabetes mellitus (DM) aged 18-80 years. Blood chemistry and hormone levels were obtained. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire was administered to the patients. The patients were divided into three groups according to the IIEF-5 score; a score of 5-10 points indicated severe ED, a score of 11-20 indicated moderate ED, and a score of 21-25 points indicated no ED. The muscle mass, handgrip strength, timed up and go test, upper mid-arm circumference, calf circumference, and body mass index were obtained. The statistical analysis was performed using MedCalc Statistical Software version 12.7.7. All parameters were compared between the three groups.

RESULTS

Of 98 patients included in the study, 84 patients had severe sarcopenia, 13 had moderate sarcopenia, while only one patient had normal muscle mass. The mean age was 56.59 ± 11.46 years. When patients were divided into three groups according to IIEF-5 score, 38 had severe ED, 39 had moderate ED, and 21 had no ED. There was a significant difference between the three groups in terms of handgrip strength, timed up and go test scores, upper mid-arm circumference, and calf circumference (p < .05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Although muscle mass remains unchanged, muscle strength and physical performance decrease in diabetic ED patients. Diabetic patients with severe and moderate ED have lower muscle strength and physical performance.

Association between hand-grip strength and erectile dysfunction in older men

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the association between handgrip strength and erectile dysfunction (ED) in community-dwelling older men.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 1771 participants of the Dong-gu Study. Handgrip strength was measured with a handheld dynamometer. ED was assessed with the Korean version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). ED was categorized as none to mild (IIEF-EF scores of 13-30) and moderate to severe (IIEF-EF scores of 0-12). Multivariable logistic regression was conducted with adjustment for potential confounders.

RESULTS

The proportion of men with moderate to severe ED was 48.8%. The age-adjusted ED score increased with increasing quartile of handgrip strength (11.0, 12.4, 13.4, and 14.0 in the lowest, second, third, and highest quartiles, respectively). After adjustment for potential confounders, greater handgrip strength was associated with a lower risk of ED (odds ratio (OR): 0.82 per 5 kg; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.74-0.90). In addition, a high level of moderate to vigorous physical activity was associated with a lower risk of ED (OR: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.61-0.93).

CONCLUSION

In this study, aging men with greater handgrip strength had a lower risk of ED. This result suggests that reduced physical functioning may contribute to ED.

[Penile erectile strength measurement band for differentiation and classification of erectile dysfunction]

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical application value of the penile erectile strength measurement (PESM) band in the differentiation of psychogenic from organic erectile dysfunction (ED).

METHODS

Eighty ED patients unable to achieve or maintain adequate penile erection to complete sexual intercourse were included in the experimental group and another 40 healthy subjects with normal erectile function enrolled as controls. The ED cases were classified into mild, moderate and severe ED according to the IIEF-5 scores and divided into psychogenic and organic ED based on the results of the nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) test. Then all the subjects underwent a three-night continuous monitoring with the PESM band and, according to the band fracture rate, the ED cases were also classified into psychogenic and organic ED. The rates of missed diagnosis, misdiagnosis and diagnostic coincidence of PESM were calculated with the results of NPT as the standard for differentiating psychogenic from organic ED.

RESULTS

The results of NPT tests revealed 51 cases of psychogenic and 29 cases of organic ED in the experimental group. The band fracture rate in PESM was 95.0% in the mild, 80.9% in the moderate and 52.8% in the severe ED patients. Of the 51 cases of psychogenic ED detected by NPT test, 43 were diagnosed as psychogenic and the other 8 as organic ED with the PESM band, with a coincidence rate of 84.3%. Of the 29 cases of organic ED revealed by NPT test, 5 were diagnosed as psychogenic and the other 24 as organic ED by PESM, with a coincidence rate of 82.8%. Normal erectile function with three-level fracture of the band was observed in the PESM of the normal controls, which showed a coincidence rate of 100% with the results of NPT tests. Based on the standard of the NPT test, the rates of missed diagnosis, misdiagnosis and diagnostic coincidence of the PESM band in differentiating psychogenic from organic ED were 15.7%, 17.2%, and 83.8%, respectively, with a Kappa value of 0.656 (P <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The penile erectile strength measurement band can be used as a screening tool for initial differentiation of psychogenic from organic ED.

Erectile dysfunction and vascular disease

Many of your male patients may be reluctant to talk about problems they are having with sexual functioning. However, it is important that you routinely and sensitively ask about erectile dysfunction in patients as young as 40, because the condition may be a sign of previously undetected vascular disease. In this article, Dr Kolodny explores the connection with vascular disease and suggests ways that primary care physicians can help patients reduce their risk of both erectile dysfunction and potential underlying disorders.

Confirmatory factor analysis of the German version of the international index of erectile function (IIEF): a comparison of four models

INTRODUCTION

The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is the most widely used instrument to assess erectile function in research and clinical practice. However, there are heterogeneous results concerning the factor structure of this questionnaire. The original model assumes five factors (erectile function, intercourse satisfaction, orgasmic function, sexual desire, and overall satisfaction). Others suggested four factors (composite domain of erectile dysfunction and intercourse satisfaction, orgasmic function, sexual desire, and overall satisfaction) or only two factors (sexual function and sexual desire). Because of the high intercorrelation between the different domains, a one-factor model is also plausible.

AIMS

This study assesses and compares these four models of the German version of the IIEF.

METHODS

It was examined which of the models fit best our data from 261 German men in cardiovascular rehabilitation participating in the SPARK study (Sexuality of Patients in the Rehabilitation of Cardiovascular Diseases). Contrary to the former exploratory studies, we used confirmatory factor analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Local and global goodness-of-fit measures were calculated.

RESULTS

The results show that two items (ability to maintain erection and intercourse frequency) could not be represented sufficiently through any of the four models. Based on the global goodness-of-fit indexes, our data proved to be fairly congruent with the original five-factor model and were acceptably represented by a four-factor model as well.

CONCLUSIONS

The original five-factor structure could be confirmed. Due to high intercorrelations, the different domains cannot optimally be discriminated and should be interpreted with caution. Further research is needed to clarify the association between the domains of male sexual function.

COMMENTARY: Subclinical Erectile Dysfunction: Proposal for a Novel Taxonomic Category in Sexual Medicine

The definition of erectile dysfunction currently used and accepted worldwide does not encompass all possible changes to male erection. Partial, temporary, or episodic absence of erection is not considered as true erectile dysfunction. This leads to a lack of diagnosis and therapy and perhaps even the risk of the subsequent development of overt impotence. The lack of an evidence-based diagnosis of such a condition may be due to the widespread, pernicious self-prescription of erection drugs, obtained from the illegal market. To define the pathological condition of men experiencing a lack of erection who are unaffected by erectile dysfunction, we propose herein a new taxonomic category, based on new sexological criteria. In addition, we suggest research into biochemical markers to define this condition, which we have named subclinical erectile dysfunction.

Premature Ejaculation: On Defining and Quantifying a Common Male Sexual Dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

Premature ejaculation (PE) and its individual and relationship consequences have been recognized in the literature for centuries. PE is one of the most common male sexual dysfunctions, affecting nearly one in three men worldwide between the ages of 18 and 59 years. Until recently, PE was believed to be a learned behavior predominantly managed with psychosexual therapy; however, the past few decades have seen significant advances in understanding its etiology, diagnosis, and management. There is, as yet, no one universally agreed upon definition of PE.

AIM

To review five currently published definitions of PE.

METHODS

The Sexual Medicine Society of North America hosted a State of the Art Conference on Premature Ejaculation on June 24-26, 2005 in collaboration with the University of South Florida. The purpose was to have an open exchange of contemporary research and clinical information on PE. There were 16 invited presenters and discussants; the group focused on several educational objectives.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Data were utilized from the World Health Organization, the American Psychiatric Association, the European Association of Urology, the Second International Consultation on Sexual Dysfunctions, and the American Urological Association.

RESULTS

The current published definitions of PE have many similarities; however, none of these provide a specific "time to ejaculation," in part because of the absence of normative data on this subject. While investigators agree that men with PE have a shortened intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT; i.e., time from vaginal penetration to ejaculation), there is now a greater appreciation of PE as a multidimensional dysfunction encompassing several components, including time and subjective parameters such as "control,""satisfaction," and "distress."

CONCLUSION

There is a recent paradigm shift away from PE as a unidimensional disorder of IELT toward a multidimensional description of PE as a biologic dysfunction with psychosocial components.

Differentialdiagnostische Diskussion der Erektionsstörung

In light of the fact that internationally accepted diagnostic criteria for erectile disorder are hardly considered in prevalence studies, the Berlin Male Study (BMS) was designed to collect data both on the frequency of dysfunctional erections experienced (DSM-IV criterion A) and the concomitance of related distress (DSM-IV criterion B). As a result, the age-adjusted total prevalence for erectile disorder (17.8%) was markedly lower than in other studies with comparable samples (40-79 years of age). Likewise, the age-dependent increase in prevalence was by far less prominent than commonly reported in the literature. These findings strongly suggest the necessity to clearly differentiate between erectile disorder, indicating that the patient is experiencing some degree of distress associated with his dysfunctional erection, and erectile dysfunction, indicating that the respective individual is not too concerned about his dysfunctional erection (with respect to erectile function, there is no reason to refer to the latter as a patient). The authors suggest that the internationally used abbreviation "ED" be differentiated into "EDy" when referring to erectile dysfunction and "EDi" when referring to erectile disorder. This extended perspective on differential diagnosis would not only make future studies (more) comparable, it would also do justice to clinical experience.

[Premature ejaculation: diagnosis, classification, algorithm of the patients' examination and results of their application]

We have analysed literature data and own experience with management of premature ejaculation (PE) in 3200 patients. This gave grounds for formulation of this phenomenon, creation of the classification and the examination algorithm. We applied the proposed methods in the treatment of 258 PE patients and made the conclusion about their adequacy and efficacy. PE is a polyetiological phenomenon and a multidisciplinary problem. Urological examination must be used as the first stage of the diagnostic process.

Sildenafil improves quality of life in men with heart failure and erectile dysfunction

Patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) have specific factors that enhance the risk for erectile dysfunction (ED), such as low cardiac output and the use of drugs with vasodilator effect. ED can negatively affect interpersonal relationships and self-esteem, with significant impact on the quality of life. We hypothesized that the improvement of the sexual dysfunction would enhance the quality of life of individuals with systolic heart failure. This is a prospective study of 12 male CHF patients using a fixed dose of sildenafil during 1 month. Patients were included if they had left ventricular ejection fraction lower than 40% documented by echocardiography and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score lower than 21. The effect of sildenafil in quality of life was evaluated by the Minnesota questionnaire. Improvement in ED was assessed using the IIEF. The mean IIEF5 score was 9.6 (+/-3.8) before the use of sildenafil and 19.3 (+/-4.3) after sildenafil (P = 0.0001). The mean Minnesota score was 28.75 (+/-21) before treatment and 12.75 (+/-10.1) after the intervention (P = 0.012). In conclusion, the sexual function improvement provided by sildenafil enhances quality of life in individuals with systolic heart failure.

[Sildenafil citrate in diagnosis of erectile dysfunction]

We examined 86 patients: 24 with functional and 62 with organic erectile dysfunction (EDF). In functional EDF, sildenafil citrate (SC) in a dose 25-50 mg or intracavernous injection of 2% solution of papaverin always resulted in satisfactory erection. In EDF, SC, papaverin injection and LOD test results were compared. Morphological examinations of cavernous tissue and tunical albuginea of the penis. Correlations were found between clinical findings, results of SC and intracavernous papaverin solution administration, LOD-test, morphological evidence. This provides objective data for classification of EDF into three stages (I, II and III). Stages I and II were defined as compensated, stage III--as a decompensated stage of organic erectile dysfunction. SC has some advantages over other tests, therefore it is recommended as a monomethod for diagnosis of functional forms, indirect staging of organic EDF.

Is it necessary to use sexual health inventory for men (SHIM) routinely?

This study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) according to the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and its relationship with age and education. Six hundred and thirty-nine male patients aged > or = 20 years attending a urology clinic were studied. After a detailed history and physical examination, all patients were evaluated with SHIM. Scores were categorized into 5 groups: severe (1-7), moderate (8-11), mild-moderate (12-16), mild (17-21) and normal (22-25). The patients were classified into three groups according to their application to the urology clinic: A--patients attending specifically for ED; B--patients not ED based on SHIM and attending not for ED; C--patients ED based on SHIM, but attending not for ED. In addition, patients were partitioned into 3 age groups according to their age: 20-35, 35-55 and >55 years. Educational levels were of 2 groups: lower education and higher education. Erectile dysfunction was determined in 3.7% in the 20-35 years group, 55% in 35-55 years and 41% in >55 years (P < 0.01). In men having ED through SHIM and attending not for ED, the ratio of ED was higher in the lower education than in the higher education groups (p = 0.01). SHIM is a diagnostic tool used for ED, and routine application of SHIM for patients attending the urology clinic is advisable.

Vardenafil Improves Erectile Function in Men with Erectile Dysfunction Irrespective of Disease Severity and Disease Classification

BACKGROUND

Vardenafil (Levitra) is a potent and selective phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor used in the management of erectile dysfunction (ED). This retrospective subgroup analysis assessed the effectiveness of vardenafil treatment in men with ED of different baseline severity and disease classification.

METHODS

Data from two pivotal, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials enrolling men from the general ED population who received placebo or vardenafil 5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg during a 12-week treatment period were retrospectively analysed, stratifying by psychogenic, organic, and mixed ED disease classification as determined by the investigator. Efficacy endpoints included the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-Erectile Function (EF) domain score, per-patient diary response rates to questions on penile insertion [Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP-2)] and maintenance of erection (SEP-3) and rates of positive response to the Global Assessment Question (GAQ).

RESULTS

Data from 1,385 men who received at least one dose of study medication and had pre- and post-baseline measures of efficacy available (intent-to-treat population) are presented. At baseline 37-41% of patients had severe ED, 30-34% moderate, 22% mild-to-moderate and 6-8% mild ED. At baseline, 46-51% of patients were considered to have an organic cause for ED, 13-16% psychogenic ED, and 36-38% mixed classification of ED. For all classifications and for mild-to-moderate to severe ED, men treated with 10 or 20 mg of vardenafil showed statistically and clinically significant improvements (P < 0.001) in IIEF-EF scores, diary response rates to the SEP-2 and SEP-3 questions, and GAQ as compared with those given placebo. The greatest improvements relative to placebo were noted in patients with more severe ED. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events were headache, flushing, rhinitis, dyspepsia, and were dose-related, mostly mild to moderate in intensity and consistent with the class.

CONCLUSIONS

Vardenafil improves EF in men with ED irrespective of investigator-determined classification and baseline ED severity.

Erectile dysfunction under age 40: etiology and role of contributing factors

The aim of this study was to evaluate the etiology of erectile dysfunction (ED) in patients under the age of 40 years. Eighty one patients were included in this study. All patients underwent a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach by color Doppler ultrasonography, dynamic pharmacocavernosometry (optional), selective pudendal pharmaco-arteriography (optional) and nocturnal penile tumescence monitoring by a Rigi-Scan (optional). Mean age of the population was 32 years. Psychogenic impotence was diagnosed in 50% of the patients and organic impotence was diagnosed in 45%. After the 3rd decade of life, a vasculogenic etiology was the most common cause of impotence. Smoking and hypertension played a major role as chronic contributing factors in the overall study population. Primary impotence was diagnosed in 11 patients who were unmarried. The rate of organic causes was 45% in this group (all vasculogenic in nature). Erectile dysfunction in younger patients and in patients with primary impotence is due mainly to organic causes, usually vascular in origin.

Spotlight on Vardenafil in Erectile Dysfunction1

Vardenafil (Levitra) is a potent and highly selective oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. Vardenafil improved erectile function in men with mild to severe erectile dysfunction (ED) of varying aetiology in two randomised, double-blind, multicentre, fixed-dose studies of 12 or 26 weeks' duration. Men receiving vardenafil 10 or 20mg had significantly greater improvements in International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire erectile function domain scores than placebo recipients. Moreover, improvements in penetration and maintenance of erection (assessed using IIEF or Sexual Encounter Profile [SEP] questions) were significantly greater with vardenafil 5-20mg than with placebo. Improvements in IIEF intercourse satisfaction and orgasmic function domain scores were significantly greater with vardenafil 10 or 20mg than with placebo and the proportion of patients with a positive response to a Global Assessment Question (GAQ) concerning improvement in erections after 12 or 26 weeks' therapy was significantly higher with vardenafil 5-20mg than with placebo. Vardenafil improved erectile function in men with ED associated with diabetes mellitus or ED following unilateral or bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy in two randomised, double-blind, multicentre, fixed-dose, 3-month studies. In both studies, improvements from baseline in the erectile function domain score of the IIEF and in positive responses to SEP questions were significantly greater with vardenafil 10 or 20mg than with placebo. In addition, a significantly higher proportion of vardenafil 10 or 20mg recipients than placebo recipients had positive GAQ responses. Vardenafil was generally well tolerated in men with ED; treatment-emergent adverse events were of mild to moderate intensity and transient in nature. The most commonly reported adverse events (typical of those seen with PDE5 inhibitors) in vardenafil 5-20mg recipients included headache, flushing, rhinitis, dyspepsia and sinusitis. There were no reports of abnormal colour vision in men with ED taking vardenafil at clinically recommended doses (5-20mg).

CONCLUSION

Vardenafil is a potent and highly selective oral PDE5 inhibitor. It is effective and generally well tolerated in men with mild to severe ED of varying aetiology, as well as in men with ED associated with diabetes mellitus or ED after radical prostatectomy. Vardenafil should be considered a first-line treatment option in men with ED who are suitable candidates for oral PDE5 inhibitor therapy.

Efficacy and tolerability of vardenafil for treatment of erectile dysfunction in patient subgroups

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether vardenafil would improve erectile function irrespective of etiology, baseline severity, or patient age. The consistency of the response over time was also evaluated.

METHODS

A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled at-home study of vardenafil treatment (5, 10, and 20 mg) was performed. This secondary analysis compared the mean International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) erectile function domain scores of various subgroups at 12 weeks of treatment. These populations included organic, psychogenic, or mixed etiologies; mild, moderate, or severe baseline severity; and four age groups (younger than 45, 45 to 55, 56 to 65, and older than 65 years). In addition, all IIEF domains were compared at sequential 4-week periods, before and during treatment.

RESULTS

In the 580 men of the intent-to-treat population, the mean erectile function domain scores were statistically greater than placebo, irrespective of etiology, baseline severity, or age. This was seen at all dosages. Compared with placebo, vardenafil statistically improved the IIEF domain scores of erectile function, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction after 4 weeks of treatment, and these improvements were maintained for 12 weeks. The rates of the most common adverse events (headache, flushing, and dyspepsia) were either constant or declined over time; they were generally mild to moderate and transient in nature.

CONCLUSIONS

Vardenafil improved erectile function regardless of the general etiology, baseline severity of erectile dysfunction, or patient age. Improvements in erectile function and other key IIEF domains were consistently seen throughout the study.

The false organic-psychogenic distinction and related problems in the classification of erectile dysfunction

The traditional distinction between organic and psychogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) was maintained in the recent report of the Nomenclature Committee of the International Society for Sexual and Impotence Research. Among the major problems with this distinction are that it is based on an obsolete view of mind-body distinctions, does not take into account knowledge of the neurobiology of 'psychological' disorders, disregards the fundamental meaning of 'psychosomatic,' is too often diagnosed by exclusion, and may imply to the patient that his ED is 'all in the mind.' As a result, the distinction has become counterproductive in the diagnosis, classification, and treatment of ED, and in research into the causes of ED. An alternative taxonomy, based on that proposed by the Nomenclature Committee, reclassifies as organic several of the causes of ED now considered to be psychogenic, and considers others as situational ED, a class reserved for episodic occurrences of ED clearly due to particular attributes of sexual encounters.

Erectile dysfunction: oral pharmacotherapy options

Erectile dysfunction (ED) (impotence) is a widespread, age-related problem, which affects 52% of men between 40 and 70 years of age. It is classified as psychogenic, organic, or mixed psychogenic and organic. ED is not a problem only of men, because the relationship between partners can also be disturbed. Therefore, adequate treatment of ED is needed and the most convenient and simplest way is oral drug therapy. Sildenafil, phosphodiesterase-(PDE)-5-selective inhibitor has been the drug of choice for patients with ED since it has been launched in March 1998. The results of various studies have confirmed the efficacy of the drug in men with ED of various etiologies, as well as the positive effect of sildenafil on the quality of a partnership. The most frequent adverse effects documented with sildenafil usage are headache, flushes, dyspepsia, visual disturbances and nasal congestion/rhinitis. These adverse effects are dose-related, usually transient and mild, with low withdrawal rate. Several studies performed recently have shown that sildenafil is a safe and effective treatment of ED in patients with cardiovascular disease, who do not take nitrates or nitrate donors concomitantly. Other oral medications for ED include apomorphine, phentolamine, yohimbine, trazodone, testosterone and new PDE-5 inhibitors in Phase III clinical trials, such as vardenafil and tadalafil. It is obvious, according to recent data, that the concept of PDE-5 inhibition has a central position in oral pharmacotherapy of ED. However, larger clinical studies of efficacy and safety should be carried out using most of the other above-mentioned oral agents and these may also gain a place in the therapy of ED. There are no studies directly comparing sildenafil and other treatments of ED or assessing its role in combination with other therapies. According to the present knowledge, the quality of life, not only of patients but also of their sexual partners, will be improved significantly with sildenafil usage and this is an important precondition for overall health ofboth. Sildenafil is thus a highly effective peroral treatment for ED in patients without contraindications for its use, which can be considered as the firstline therapy with an acceptable risk-benefit ratio.

A shared care approach to the management of erectile dysfunction in the community

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects men of all ages and results in considerable distress and impact on quality of life for those who suffer from it. As ED is associated with a wide variety of under-lying conditions and cardiovascular co-morbidities, there is a requirement for diversity of treatment options and several factors must be considered to customise and optimise therapy. In the ideal holistic approach to management of the ED patient, both primary care and specialist physicians have an important role to play. This article reports on a sequential approach for the diagnosis and treatment of ED, with an emphasis on 'shared care'. The deliberations are based on a pan-European inter-disciplinary group that met at the Lygon Arms, UK on 22 February 2002.

Penile pharmacotesting in diagnosing male erectile dysfunction: evidence for lack of accuracy and specificity

Penile pharmacotesting (PPT) with alprostadil (PGE1) represents the most common diagnostic approach to male erectile dysfunction (ED). A positive response - i.e. normal erectile rigidity of sustained duration - is presumed to exclude venous or arterial pathology with enough accuracy. To test this assumption we compared PPT vs. flowmetric results obtained by colour-duplex Doppler ultrasound (CDDU) in patients (pts) undergoing diagnostic evaluation for ED under conditions of maximal cavernous relaxation. A total of 195 non-consecutive impotent pts were diagnosed after dynamic CDDU as non-vasculogenic (NOR), or having arteriogenic (AR), veno-occlusive (VO) or mixed (MX) ED. Maximal erection obtained after PPT was scored as: type-1 (full tumescence - no sustained rigidity, angle on the abdominal plane >90 degrees), type-2 (sustained partial erection, valid for intromission, angle=90 degrees) and type-3 (sustained full erection, angle <90 degrees). Comparing PPT with flowmetric results, we found that a type-3 response had 20% false negative diagnosis of NOR (17% of AR- and 3% of VO- and MX-ED, respectively), while a type-2 response had 63% false negative diagnosis (20% of AR, 37% of VO- and 6% MX-ED, respectively). Type-1 response was associated with the presence of VO dysfunction in 99% of cases. These data suggest that a positive response to PPT (type-2 and type-3) assessed by the visual rating of erection is associated with both arterial (up to 20%) and/or VO (up to 43%) ED, as detected by CDDU. We conclude that PPT alone is a misleading diagnostic test to exclude vascular ED and that dynamic CDDU should be offered to pts investigated for male ED.

Symptom indexes to assess outcomes of treatment for early prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Patients' perceptions of treatment outcomes are important in the management of early prostate cancer, but few studies have offered reliable and responsive measures to assess the likely side effects of the most common treatments.

OBJECTIVE

To develop indexes of urinary, bowel, and sexual function, and related distress.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Prospective cohort study of the outcomes of treatment for early prostate cancer, with self-administered questionnaires completed before treatment, and 3 and 12 months afterward. Hypothesized indexes, based on a clinical model of pathophysiological side effects of treatment, were defined and evaluated with respect to reliability and validity.

SUBJECTS

Patients (n = 184) undergoing radical prostatectomy or external beam radiotherapy for early prostate cancer.

MEASURES

Urinary and bowel items pertained to frequency or intensity of symptoms of dysfunction; parallel items assessed symptom-related distress. Sexual dysfunction items assessed the quality of erections, orgasm, and ejaculation; distress was assessed by 2 items adapted from the MOS Sexual Problems (MOS-SP) scale. HRQoL was assessed by the SF-36 and Profile of Mood States.

RESULTS

Symptom and symptom-related distress indexes for urinary incontinence, urinary obstruction/irritation, bowel dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction were defined. Symptom and distress indexes in each domain were highly correlated. Responsiveness was substantial and varied by treatment in ways consistent with clinical experience. The indexes accounted for significant proportions of the variance in HRQoL measures.

CONCLUSIONS

These indexes may be used in monitoring outcomes of treatment for early prostate cancer.

Treatment of erectile dysfunction with sildenafil citrate (Viagra) in parkinsonism due to Parkinson's disease or multiple system atrophy with observations on orthostatic hypotension

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate (Viagra) in men with erectile dysfunction and parkinsonism due either to Parkinson's disease or multiple system atrophy.

METHODS

Twenty four patients with erectile disease were recruited, 12 with Parkinson's disease and 12 with multiple system atrophy, into a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled, crossover study of sildenafil citrate. The starting dose was 50 mg active or placebo medication with the opportunity for dose adjustment depending on efficacy and tolerability. The international index of erectile function questionnaire (IIEF) was used to assess treatment efficacy and a quality of life questionnaire to assess the effect of treatment on sex life and whole life. Criteria for entry included a definite neurological diagnosis and a standing systolic blood pressure of 90-180 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure of 50-110 mm Hg, on treatment if necessary. Blood pressure was taken at randomisation (visit 2) and crossover (visit 5) lying, sitting, and standing, before and 1 hour after taking the study medication in hospital.

RESULTS

Sidenafil citrate was efficacious in men with parkinsonism with a significant improvement, as demonstrated in questionnaire responses, in ability to achieve and maintain an erection and improvement in quality of sex life. In Parkinson's disease there was minimal change in blood pressure between active and placebo medication. In multiple system atrophy, six patients were studied before recruitment was stopped because three men showed a severe drop in blood pressure 1 hour after taking the active medication. Two were already known to have orthostatic hypotension and were receiving treatment with ephedrine and midodrine but the third had asymptomatic hypotension. However, the blood pressures in all three had been within the inclusion criterion for the study protocol. Despite a significant postural fall in blood pressure after sildenafil, all patients with multiple system atrophy reported a good erectile response and were reluctant to discontinue the medication.

CONCLUSIONS

Sidenafil citrate (50 mg) is efficacious in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in parkinsonism due to Parkinson's disease or multiple system atrophy; however, it may unmask or exacerbate hypotension in multiple system atrophy. As Parkinson's disease may be diagnostically difficult to distinguish from multiple system atrophy, especially in the early stages, we recommend measurement of lying and standing blood pressure before prescribing sildenafil to men with parkinsonism. Furthermore, such patients should be made aware of seeking medical advice if they develop symptoms on treatment suggestive of orthostatic hypotension.

The management of erectile dysfunction in the community

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a widely occurring benign disorder that affects men of all ages. The prevalence and severity of ED increases with age and results in considerable distress and impact on quality of life for those who suffer from it. As ED is associated with a wide variety of underlying conditions and co-morbidities there is a requirement for diversity of treatment options beyond those currently available. In the management of the ED patient both primary care and specialist physicians have an important role to play. This article reports on a stepwise approach for the diagnosis and treatment of ED, with an emphasis on a 'shared care' approach. The suitability of apomorphine SL (Uprima) for the front line management of the ED patient is described.

Relationship between patient self-assessment of erectile function and the erectile function domain of the international index of erectile function

OBJECTIVES

To assess the validity of severity classes on the erectile function (EF) domain of the International Index of Erectile Function by determining their relationship with the self-assessment of EF, before and after treatment, in an independent cohort of patients.

METHODS

Two hundred forty-seven men with clinically diagnosed erectile dysfunction (ED) and in a stable heterosexual relationship were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, 12-week, flexible-dose study. Patients assessed their degree of ED as severe, moderate, minimal/mild, or no problem at baseline and after treatment. They also responded to the six questions of the EF domain, with the total score indicating the following degrees of ED: severe, EF score 1 to 10; moderate, EF score 11 to 16; mild to moderate, EF score 17 to 21; mild, EF score 22 to 25; and no ED, EF score 26 to 30. Descriptive profiles of the two diagnostic instruments were compared. The correlations between the instruments were evaluated with Kendall's tau-b at baseline, after treatment at 12 weeks, and at change from baseline.

RESULTS

The two measures gave generally similar descriptive profiles of ED severity. The correlations were 0. 65 (95% confidence interval 0.57 to 0.73) at baseline, 0.86 (95% confidence interval 0.83 to 0.89) after 12 weeks of treatment, and 0. 73 (95% confidence interval 0.67 to 0.79) at change from baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

The moderate-to-high correlation between the patients' self-assessment of EF and the EF domain of the International Index of Erectile Function provides a validation of this domain for the reliable diagnostic classification of ED severity.

Contextual approaches to the physiology and classification of erectile function, erectile dysfunction, and sexual arousal

This paper offers a reexamination of some long-held beliefs relating to the physiology of erectile function and dysfunction, including the idea that there is a singular physiology of erection. Rather, there appear to be plural neural, neurochemical, and endocrine mechanisms whose participation in erectile function depends on the behavioral context in which erection occurs. The best examples of this context-dependent physiology come from research on rats. For example, the medial amygdala is essential for noncontact erection in response to inaccessible estrous females, but not for erection during copulation. Also, androgen is necessary for touch-based and noncontact erection, but not for erection during copulation. Even the specific dopamine receptors important to erection may differ, depending on the context. If there is not a singular physiology of erection, then it follows that the physiology of erectile dysfunction may also vary from context to context. Thus, some disorders of the central nervous system may not be manifested in sleep-related erection, and therefore may be misinterpreted as "psychogenic" erectile dysfunction. This term belies the axiom that all psychological processes have a somatic basis; therefore, there can be no psychogenic dysfunction that does not involve organic processes which may respond to pharmacotherapy. A revised classification of erectile dysfunction based on this premise is offered. Finally, closer attention to erectile context may also illuminate male "sexual arousal" and its relation to "sexual motivation". The former term has so many meanings in current usage as to impede research, especially into the physiology of sexual arousal, which depends on comparisons between animals and humans. It is proposed that attention be given to two variables: whether or not erection occurs and whether or not the context is sexual. The occurrence of penile erection within a sexual context is viewed as the only case in which sexual arousal may be inferred unambiguously.

The process of care model for evaluation and treatment of erectile dysfunction. The Process of Care Consensus Panel

This paper addresses pertinent issues concerning the role of physicians in the assessment and treatment of men with complaints of erectile dysfunction. With the availability of safe and effective oral drug therapy, the field of erectile dysfunction has expanded rapidly to encompass multiple disciplines and specialties. Recognizing the need for evidence-based standards and guidelines in the management of this common disorder, a multidisciplinary panel of experts was convened to examine existing literature and practice standards. This panel employed a modified Delphi methodology to develop consensus on definition and classification, rational utilization of diagnostic and therapeutic options, and clinical guidelines for the management of erectile dysfunction in a primary care setting. A 'Process of Care Model for Erectile Dysfunction' was thus developed, incorporating a step-wise decision making approach, defined in terms of relevant processes, actions and outcomes. According to this method, initial assessment should include a careful clinical history, focused physical examination and selected laboratory tests. Subsequent management should be goal-oriented, taking into account patient and partner needs and preferences. The step-wise treatment algorithm is based on the selection criteria of ease of administration, reversibility, relative invasiveness and cost. In addition, common referral indications for specialized diagnostic testing and treatment are provided. By assisting the primary physician in selecting appropriate assessment tools and treatment interventions, the proposed guidelines are intended to optimize care of the patient with erectile dysfunction. The panel strongly recommends further research into the causes and associated risk factors for erectile dysfunction, prevention and the role of lifestyle modification, and the critical issue of partner-related sexual dysfunction. Considering the strong relationship between sexual dysfunction and overall quality of life, it is incumbent upon physicians to address the sexual needs of their patients in a sensitive and informed manner.

Management of male erectile dysfunction: a review

Male erectile dysfunction is common although some patients are embarrassed and delay seeking medical advice. Recent improvements in the understanding of the anatomy, physiology and pharmacotherapy of penile erections, and the introduction of intracavernosal pharmacotherapy has resolved most of the controversies regarding the aetiology of erectile dysfunction. Impotence is equally divided into organic and psychogenic causes. Arterial insufficiency, alcoholism, venosinusoidal, neurological and endocrine disorders are known to cause organic erectile dysfunction. Two most popular options in the management of erectile dysfunction are intracavernosal injections with vasoactive drugs like papavarine, phentolamine, and prostaglandin EI with discontinuation rates of 40-50%, and the use of external vacuum devices whose limitations include failure to achieve and maintain full erection. The use of inflatable penile prostheses is successful but limited with periprosthetic infection and cylinder erosion through the skin or urethra. Surgical procedures have included revascularisation of penile vessels without good results. Surgical ligation of penile veins for venosinusoidal incompetence has been successful compared to excision and embolisation which has disappointing results. Currently the role of oral medications in the treatment of erectile dysfunction is limited. However, there are now several new agents including sildenafil, a phosphodiasterase inhibitor, which is undergoing clinical trials that appear to be effective.

Engineering analysis of penile hemodynamic and structural-dynamic relationships: Part III--Clinical considerations of penile hemodynamic and rigidity erectile responses

PURPOSE

The extent to which hemodynamic erectile responses predict penile buckling forces has not previously been analytically investigated. An engineering study was performed to compare hemodynamic data with penile buckling force values.

METHODS

Dynamic infusion pharmacocavernosometry studies in 21 impotent patients (age 43, range 24-62 y) were accomplished to obtain information during penile erection concerning hemodynamic values, penile buckling forces and their determinants: intracavernosal pressure, erectile tissue mechanical properties and penile geometry.

RESULTS

In the 21 patients, discrepancies existed in several patients who demonstrated normal hemodynamic values (low flow-to-maintain and high equilibrium intracavernosal pressures) but elevated cavernosal compliance values and diminished penile buckling forces. There was poor correlation between cavernosal compliance and equilibrium intracavernosal pressure (r = -0.36); better correlation between compliance and expandability (r = -0.72) and best correlation between dimensionless compliance and the dimensionless product of expandability with equilibrium pressure (r = -0.88). These data implied that cavernosal compliance was dependent on multiple factors, not only equilibrium intracavernosal pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemodynamic indices which correlate with intracavernosal pressure alone do not predict penile buckling forces since the latter are dependent not only on intracavernosal pressure but also on penile geometry and erectile tissue properties. The most relevant tissue property in predicting adequate penile buckling forces is cavernosal expandability. A new impotence classification system and diagnostic algorithm based on the determinants of penile rigidity and not exclusively on hemodynamic responses in proposed.

[Definition and classification of sexual disorder--in men]

Sexual disorders include the disorder of sexual differntiation and male infertility and sexual dysfunction. Sex determination is concerned with the control of the development of the primary and or gonadal sex, sex differentiation encompasses the events subsequent to gonadal organogenesis. Classification of anomalous sexual development are recognized as disorders of gonadal differentiation, female pseudhermaphroditism, male pseudhermaphroditism and unclassified form. Upon completion of a history and physical examination and evaluation of semen parameters, the male infertility can usually classified into one of nine categories: azoospermia, ejaculatory dysfunction, varicocele, gonadotoxins, antisperm antibodies, infections, endocrinopathy, idiopathic infertility, or miscellaneous. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is classified into two categories: functional ED and organic ED. Vascular, neurological and endocrinological disorders are recognized as organic causes of ED.

[Nosology, epidemiology, clinical quantification of erectile dysfunctions]

After a review of the literature and of our own data base this article specifies: the nosology of erectile dysfunction (ED) defined as an inability to achieve enough rigidity for a satisfactory intercourse. This lack of firmness is frequently associated with a loss of libido (37%), performance anxiety (37%), and premature ejaculation (40%). The prevalence of ED in the overall French population, age 18 to 70 years is 39% (11% presenting permanent ED defined as a rate of failure to perform of 50%). This rate increases with age to 52 and 25% respectively. A quantification of the symptomatology is proposed scoring three different aspects of sexual activity during intercourse, erectile activity in absence of intercourse, patient's satisfaction, and partner satisfaction. Figures of normal subjects and patients with ED are presented.

[Clinical models and decisional algorithm in the management of erectile disorders]

The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction (ED) needs an appropriate evaluation of global function and specific component of the erection. We have used a quantified methodology to grade each of the specific factors: arterial, venous, neurologic, endocrine, psychological and anxiety, in four groups of increasing severity. With this information each patient is them classified organic, psychological or mixed. The prevalence of "mixed" aetiology appears in the statistical objective offered by two different retrospective studies with a 76% rate of psychological prevalence and a 85% of organic prevalence. In two out of three of the patients both factors are present.

[Intra-cavernous collagen analysis in impotence]

The role of the different components of the corpus cavernosum is very important in the physiopathology of erectile dysfunction. The precise function of collagen fibers in erectile physiology is controversial. We measured the different types of collagen (I, III, IV) in the corpus cavernosum of 26 impotent and potent men using cell image analysis and immunohistochemistry. We found differences in the distribution of collagen I, III, IV in each pathological group (arterial, caverno-venous, psychogenic). The augmentation of collagen I and the light diminution in collagen III makes the corpus cavernosum less compliant which translates clinically as an alteration in the filling of the vascular spaces and by dysfunction of the veno-occlusive mechanism. The diminution in collagen IV shows an alteration in the function of endothelial cells. The fact that in the psychogenic group we found also a diminution in collagen IV content, makes us infer that psychogenic impotence could be the first stage of an organic impotence.

The contribution of cavernous body biopsy in the diagnosis and treatment of male impotence

This study concerns the results of penile biopsies in 50 patients aged 27 to 80, with secondary impotence removed with a biopty gun or during penile surgery. The biopty gun specimens were equally representative as the open biopsy ones. The cause and the degree of erectile dysfunction were determined by clinical and laboratorial investigation. The histological study of the cavernous bodies in the patients with psychogenic impotence revealed normal erectile tissue. In patients with organic impotence, histological lesions were graded as mild, moderate or severe. The most severe lesions were observed in the erectile tissue and in particular in the smooth muscle of the trabeculae and the helicine arteries, which had been reduced and replaced by connective tissue. Histological lesions were found not only in the arterial but also in the venous leak cases. There was a correlation between their severity and the degree of impotence, although of no statistical significance. The penile biopsy determines the condition (state) of the functional cavernous smooth muscle tissue, the integrity of which is essential for the erectile mechanism as well as for the action of the vasoactive drugs and the results of vascular surgery. Its important role is evident as it contributes not only to the diagnosis of the cause, but also to the choice of treatment of male impotence.

[The diagnosis of vasculogenic impotence as a consequence of pathological venous drainage of the corpora cavernosa]

A total of 184 patients with suspected impaired venous drainage of cavernous bodies were examined. Dynamic perfusion cavernosography with cavernometry was employed. Venous drainage abnormalities were detected in 158 of 184 examinees. Classification of this drainage abnormalities was elaborated based on the results of these examinations. A drug perfusion method for determining debit deficiency, one of the basic parameters of this classification (together with run-off type), has been developed.

Pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction

During the past decade, our knowledge of the hemodynamics, functional anatomy, neurophysiology, and neuropharmacology of erectile function has evolved substantially. The change of smooth muscle tone has emerged as a key factor in erection and detumescence. However, future studies are needed to elucidate the cellular and molecular basis of erectile physiology. With insight into normal physiology we will understand the pathologic process and be able to treat it.

Criteria for examiner-independent nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity monitoring (NPTR): correlations to invasive diagnostic methods

78 patients (pts.) with erectile dysfunction (ED) underwent conventional diagnostic evaluation including NPTR monitoring with the Rigiscan, intracavernous drug testing, dynamic cavernosometry, doppler evaluation, pharmaco-angiography and neurologic tests. Only erections of the best rigidity recorded over three nights served for classification into three classes of rigidity. Patients with neurogenic impotence showed significantly poorer and fewer erectile events per hour than vasculogenic impotent men. Patients with arteriogenic ED had better erections than patients with venogenic or mixed arterio-venogenic ED. Severity of organic ED during conventional diagnostic work-up correlated to loss of rigidity during NPTR recordings, but no differential diagnosis between arteriogenic, venogenic or neurogenic impotence could be made with NPTR data alone. The presented criteria for NPTR evaluation permit a time-saving, examiner-independent analysis.

[Changes in the corpora cavernosa penis in patients with a traumatic lesion of the urethral canal]

Contrast investigations of corpus cavernosum penis (CCP) have been performed in 42 patients with urethral traumas. A hip-bone fracture and urethral injury were associated with CCP rupture in 76% of the cases. Sexual dysfunction was registered in all the patients, a complete erectile failure occurred in 57.2% of them. Indications to and an original technique of cavernosography are described. 32 patients developed venous blood CCP outflow 8 ones fibrous replacement of the cavernous tissue staged by x-ray examination as stage I and II. Static cavernosography is able to effectively determine changes in the cavernous tissue resultant from urethral trauma, disorders in the CCP venous outflow, a degree of morphological abnormalities in the cavernous tissue and, consequently, should become a mandatory examination for such patients, especially before endophalloplasty.

Comparison of the diagnostic value of pump and gravity cavernosometry in the evaluation of the cavernous veno-occlusive mechanism

We performed cavernosometry in 96 patients with erectile dysfunction. Two different techniques were compared: pump cavernosometry using a roller pump as the inflow source and gravity cavernosometry using an infusion set as the inflow source. We conclude that the diagnostic value of both techniques is comparable. In pump cavernosometry maintenance flow is the most accurate parameter of veno-occlusive function. Gravity cavernosometry has the advantages of simplicity, cost-effectiveness and a lower complication rate. Incomplete cavernous smooth muscle relaxation appeared to be limiting the diagnostic value of both techniques.

Interpretation and quantification of penile blood flow studies using duplex ultrasonography

Duplex ultrasound scanning of the penis combined with intracorporeal pharmacological stimulation of an erection provides an accurate, relatively noninvasive functional assessment of cavernous artery blood flow. Various criteria described for normal have been based on either blood flow velocity alone or the combination of blood flow velocity and arterial dilatation of each cavernous artery. Unfortunately, less than 20% of impotent men have classical arterial anatomy and the aforementioned normal criteria do not take into account the various possible anatomical and acquired anomalies that can exist. In addition, the multiplicity of parameters used to describe normal are cumbersome to use for patient comparison and statistical analysis. In this study, 4 indexes were developed to express the results of a duplex ultrasound penile blood flow study and they were tested in an impotent population comprised of 75 men with arterial disease and 33 men with impotence due to neurogenic or psychogenic causes. A significant difference was observed between these 2 groups using all 4 indexes (p less than 0.001). However, the penile blood flow index, which incorporated velocity and dilatation, performed best as determined by sensitivity, specificity and receiver operating characteristics. Based on the results of this study, the penile blood flow index, which represents the summation of the percentage of dilatation and peak blood flow velocity of each cavernous artery, provides an accurate reflection of total penile blood flow as measured by duplex ultrasound.