Approaching Erectile Dysfunction in Dermatology Patients

In the article from July 2013, the authors discussed the importance of dermatologists addressing sexual dysfunction, particularly erectile dysfunction (ED), in patients with chronic skin conditions. They highlighted that various skin diseases, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and eczema, as well as medications like 5α-reductase inhibitors and isotretinoin, can contribute to sexual dysfunction. For instance, a study of 936 psoriasis patients found that 71.3% reported sexual dysfunction due to their condition. The authors suggested that dermatologists are well-positioned to discuss sexual health with patients after establishing trust during skin examinations. They recommended using sexual satisfaction scales and considering both psychological and physiological factors when assessing sexual dysfunction. Treatment options mentioned include psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and phosphodiesterase-5 selective inhibitors (PDIs) like sildenafil citrate, tadalafil, and vardenafil hydrochloride. The authors emphasized the need for caution when prescribing PDIs due to potential interactions with other medications and side effects. Addressing sexual dysfunction in dermatology patients can improve their quality of life and potentially reduce healthcare costs by decreasing referrals.