Praktické lekárnictvo 1/2011

Difficulties in diagnostics and treatment of erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a common problem of Czech men. Erectile dysfunction is one risk factor of coronary artery disease. It is necessary that we actively seek out and effectively treat men with erectile dysfunction. Diagnosis of erectile dysfunction is complicated by the absence of communication on this topic in offices of general practitioners and specialists, overestimation of psychogenic etiology, underestimation of somatic causes, especially cardiovascular risk, and underevaluation of erectile dysfunction as a problem in partner relationship. Further, there are difficulties in therapy: choice of unsuitable therapeutic method, noncompliance of the female partner, absence of education, and production of false non-responders of oral therapy. Subsequent alternative therapy – intracavernous injection of prostaglandin E1 – is not offered to non-responders of oral therapy. The goal of long-term observation of patients with erectile dysfunction is early diagnosis of cardiovascular risk factors. The ultimate goal is a satisfactory sexual life of a couple.

Keywords: erectile dysfunction, communication, education, cardiovascular risk, oral therapy, intracavernous therapy.