How, why and when should urologists evaluate male sexual function?

Male sexual dysfunction-a term that is commonly used to refer to erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, decreased libido and impaired orgasm-is the primary complaint encountered by many urologists. Despite the high prevalence and bothersome nature of these complaints, they are frequently neglected in clinical practice. This paper highlights clinical situations in which urologists should systematically evaluate male sexual functioning. These include men who present with several common urologic disorders, such as pelvic trauma, malignancies, and lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia, neurologic disorders and infertility. Studies have shown that erectile dysfunction might be a clinical marker of endothelial dysfunction, and consequently of undetected diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease and depression. We also address the question of whether urologists should adopt wide-ranging screening regimens for sexual dysfunction.