Beyond Arthritis: Understanding the Influence of Gout on Erectile Function: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE

To review the evidence suggesting a significant association between gout and erectile dysfunction (ED) and evaluate possible underlying pathways that may explain this relationship.

METHODS

English medical literature was searched from January 1, 2010, to January 1, 2020, for randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials, cross-sectional studies, case-cohort studies, or meta-analysis evaluating the relationship between gout and ED.

RESULTS

All nine gout studies included in the study found a significant association between gout and ED. ED pathophysiology in gout involves hyperuricemia, increased reactive oxygen species, decreased nitric oxide synthesis, and low-grade inflammation.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this review suggest that the effect of urate-lowering therapy on the incidence of ED in gout patients should be studied. Additionally, we propose that all gout patients should be assessed for ED.