Psoriasis and Erectile Dysfunction

According to a study by Ji et al published online on February 11 in the International Journal of Impotence Research, men with psoriasis may be more prone to erectile dysfunction (ED) than those without this skin disease, and their odds of sexual difficulties are even higher if they are depressed or have other health problems such as diabetes mellitus or high blood pressure.

The investigators evaluated 191 psoriasis patients and 191 healthy men. Of the 191 patients with psoriasis, 52.9% had symptoms of ED compared with 40.3% of the control group, reflecting an age-adjusted odds ratio of 1.965 in favor of the psoriasis group. A univariate analysis of the psoriasis cohort demonstrated that age, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and depressive symptoms were risk factors for ED. A multivariate logistic regression model indicated that increasing age, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and depressive symptoms were independent risk factors for ED in those with psoriasis. More severe depressive symptoms increased the risk of ED, especially moderate to severe ED.

Ji et al noted that ED is a predictor of future cardiovascular disease; therefore, it is important to identify ED early in treatment to evaluate cardiovascular issues in psoriasis patients. They noted that screening of ED may become a part of routine care in the management of psoriasis patients.

What’s the issue?

Even though it was a small study from one location, it still sheds light on many important issues. Psoriasis and its comorbidities appear to increase the risk for ED. In addition, ED also may be an indicator of cardiovascular disease.

How will these data impact your evaluation of psoriasis patients?

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