The Prevalence of sexual dysfunction in Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The motor symptoms of Parkinson's Disease (PD) are explained by the pathology of the dopaminergic system. However, both dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic neurotransmitters are responsible in non-motor symptoms. In this study, we described the complexity of sexual problems and factors associated with PD, and sexual dysfunction of patients and their partners. METHODS: The data of this study were obtained from consecutive Parkinson's patients who applied to the Yüzüncü Yıl University Neurology outpatient clinic between September 2019 and March 2020. A total of 70 patients were included in the study (30 were women and 40 were men). Erectile function in men was evaluated with the International Erectile Function Assessment form-5 (IIEF-5). RESULTS: It was observed that men were more affected than women in terms of sexual activity due to general sexual dissatisfaction and especially erectile dysfunction. (65% vs 46.6%). The distribution of erectile dysfunction scale (IIEF); 16 patients with very severe erectile dysfunction; 2 of them were found to be mild (12.5%), 3 of them medium (18.75%) and 11 of them as severe (68.75%). According to the erectile dysfunction scale, the rate of severe ones was found to be statistically different and significant from the others. (P <0.05) DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The relationship between dissatisfaction with sexual experiences, age, disease duration and advanced stage disease in men with PD was found similar to the literature. Managing sexual problems in PD is a challenge for doctors and healthcare professionals working with their PD and their caregivers. Future studies should focus on elucidating the pathophysiology of these syndromes.

Keywords

• parkinson
• sexual dysfunction
• erectile dysfunction
• dopamine