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Keywords = IIEF-5 questionnaire

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10 pages, 293 KiB  
Article
Oncological and Functional Outcomes of Hemi-Ablation Versus Focal Ablation for Localized Prostate Cancer Using Irreversible Electroporation
by Michel Suberville, Kai Zhang, Jean Baptiste Woillard, Isabelle Herafa, Dorothée Ducoux, Rachid Nachef, Jeremy Teoh, Gang Zhu, Chi-Fai Ng, Pilar Laguna and Jean de la Rosette
Cancers 2025, 17(13), 2084; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17132084 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 511
Abstract
Background: Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a novel ablative treatment modality for localized prostate cancer and aims at achieving oncological control while minimizing the related side effects. We present the functional and oncological outcomes of focal IRE ablation versus hemi-ablation from a single-center [...] Read more.
Background: Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a novel ablative treatment modality for localized prostate cancer and aims at achieving oncological control while minimizing the related side effects. We present the functional and oncological outcomes of focal IRE ablation versus hemi-ablation from a single-center patient series. Methods: Men with histologically confirmed low–intermediate risk prostate cancer received focal IRE ablation or hemi-ablation. All the patients were recommended an MRI-targeted fusion biopsy plus systematic biopsy at 1 year post-IRE ablation. The functional outcomes were measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires. Results: In total, 106 patients were recruited in this study. The median follow-up time was 24 months (IQR 15–36). Overall, 94 patients underwent repeat prostate biopsy at 12 months after IRE. Persistent tumor was detected in 72.2% in the focal ablation group and in 31% in the hemi-ablation group (p < 0.001). Clinically significant prostate cancer (Gleason ≥ 3 + 4) was detected in 25% in the focal ablation group and in 8.6% in the hemi-ablation group (p = 0.003). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of IPSS and IIEF at each follow-up time point. Conclusion: For men with localized low–intermediate risk prostate cancer, hemi-IRE ablation treatment displayed better oncological control than focal ablation without compromising on functional or sexual outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Methods and Technologies Development)
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12 pages, 596 KiB  
Systematic Review
Scrotal Flaps for Penile Skin Reconstruction: A Systematic Review
by Sorin V. Parasca, Andrei Dumitrescu, Florin R. Stanescu and Ruxandra D. Sinescu
Medicina 2025, 61(6), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61061052 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 832
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Infection, trauma, skin cancer, foreign substance injections and lymphedema are among the most frequent causes of penile skin defects. Scrotal flaps are a promising reconstructive option for penile resurfacing, offering improved functional and aesthetic outcomes; however, there is no [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Infection, trauma, skin cancer, foreign substance injections and lymphedema are among the most frequent causes of penile skin defects. Scrotal flaps are a promising reconstructive option for penile resurfacing, offering improved functional and aesthetic outcomes; however, there is no clear consensus on their superiority. Materials and Methods: A review of the literature was performed in PubMed Central and Scopus, and multiple keywords were employed. The initial search retrieved 9181 articles; 32 articles were finally selected, of which 13 were case reports and 19 were case series. Results: A total of 368 patients were included, the majority (71%) consulting for sclerosing lipogranuloma. Seven types of scrotal flaps were used: unilateral scrotal flap (n = 1), bilateral anterior scrotal flaps (n = 149), two-stage scrotal flap (n = 57), bipedicled bilateral anterior scrotal flaps (n = 140), apron-style scrotal flap (n = 1), scrotal pull-up (n = 13), and island dartos musculocutaneous flap (n = 7). Patient satisfaction was high in all studies. Outcome evaluation was typically conducted using subjective questionnaires with 2 or 5 items or visual analog scales. Few studies employed validated sexual function questionnaires, as the IIEF-5 or the EHS. Conclusions: Scrotal flaps provide good quality tissue for penile resurfacing, having the closest resemblance to normal penis skin. For a better understanding of the outcomes of different scrotal flaps, a thorough evaluation of postoperative complications should be made. The LOS and revision surgery rates may serve as surrogates for the financial burden of the procedure. Erectile function should be thoroughly evaluated with a 10-item Likert scale, IIEF-5, EHS, and POSAS. Full article
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11 pages, 1298 KiB  
Article
Erectile and Sexual Function Determinants in Men with Type 1 Diabetes
by Cristian Petolicchio, Francesco Cocchiara, Giordano Spacco, Eliana Delle Chiaie, Maria Grazia Calevo, Davide Carlo Maggi, Diego Ferone, Nicola Minuto and Marta Bassi
Diabetology 2025, 6(5), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology6050034 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 790
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The association between sexual dysfunctions and diabetes is largely known, but few studies investigated its prevalence in Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in a group of men with T1D regardless [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The association between sexual dysfunctions and diabetes is largely known, but few studies investigated its prevalence in Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in a group of men with T1D regardless of their age and to compare the prevalence in men treated with different intensive insulin regimens. Methods: The study population included 68 men affected by T1D, of whom 17 were on Multiple Daily Injections (MDI) and 51 were on Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (41 on Advanced Hybrid Closed Loop System with catheters and 10 on patch pumps). All participants completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15), which evaluates several domains of sexual function. Another questionnaire that evaluated general features, diabetes-specific features, and sexual-specific features was proposed to every participant. Results: The overall prevalence of erectile dysfunction was 48.5%, and the overall prevalence of a severe grade of erectile dysfunction was 26.5%. Correlations were demonstrated between the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and age and between the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and dyadic status. Age and dyadic status were also correlated with lower scores in several other domains of the IIEF-15 questionnaire. Conclusions: Men with Type 1 Diabetes present a high prevalence of erectile dysfunction, independent of glycometabolic control of the disease and insulin regimens; on the contrary, a great correlation is demonstrated with age and dyadic status. Full article
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16 pages, 550 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Sexual Function in Relation to Microbiological Findings in Patients with Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis
by Vittorio Magri, Gianpaolo Perletti, Konstantinos Stamatiou and Alberto Trinchieri
Diagnostics 2025, 15(7), 887; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15070887 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 860
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) often present symptoms of sexual dysfunction. We aimed to evaluate the impact of the infection location and etiology on sexual dysfunction in patients with CBP. Methods: Male patients with CBP diagnosed by microbiological tests [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) often present symptoms of sexual dysfunction. We aimed to evaluate the impact of the infection location and etiology on sexual dysfunction in patients with CBP. Methods: Male patients with CBP diagnosed by microbiological tests underwent a complete clinical assessment and were administered questionnaires for prostatitis (NIH-CPSI), voiding (IPSS), and sexual function (IIEF-15, PEDT). Results: Out of 614 patients, erectile dysfunction (ED) was present in 49.8%, and premature ejaculation (PE) in 40.7%. At least one sexual disorder was present in 86.3% when other disorders of ejaculation, orgasm, and sexual desire were considered. Patients with Gram-negative infections in expressed prostatic secretion (EPS) or voided urine after prostatic massage (VB3) had higher odds of moderate to severe erectile dysfunction compared to patients with infection by atypical pathogens (OR 3.31, CI 1.43–7.63, p = 0.0039). Rates of orgasmic dysfunction were also higher in Gram-negative and Gram-positive with respect to atypicals (OR 3.2, CI 1.36–7.90, p = 0.006 and OR 3.78, CI 1.64–8.71, p = 0.001). Hemospermia was more frequent in patients with semen infection by Gram-positive than in patients with infection by atypical pathogens (OR 2.2984, CI 1.3239–3.9901, p = 0.002). Prostatic calcifications at transrectal ultrasound were less frequent in patients with semen infection by Gram-negative compared to Gram-positive (OR 0.471, CI 0.3029–0.7322, p = 0.000). The addition of an “S” (sexual) domain to the UPOINT classification achieves a more significant correlation between the number of positive domains in each patient and the NIH-CPSI score. Conclusions: Infections by Gram-negative are associated with more sexual morbidity in patients with CBP. The use of a questionnaire investigating all the main domains of sexual dysfunction could be very useful for the phenotyping of patients with chronic prostatitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease)
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10 pages, 250 KiB  
Article
Investigating the Effect of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) Surgery on Sexual Function in Male Patients over 50 Years
by Reza Fatahian, Saeed Gharooee Ahangar, Mehran Bahrami Bukani, Masoud Sadeghi, Annette B. Brühl and Serge Brand
Medicina 2025, 61(4), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61040628 - 29 Mar 2025
Viewed by 672
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a leading cause of back surgery in elderly individuals. Additionally, LSS can result in buttock pain; abnormal sensations; or even loss of sensation in the thighs, feet, legs, and buttocks, as well as potential [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a leading cause of back surgery in elderly individuals. Additionally, LSS can result in buttock pain; abnormal sensations; or even loss of sensation in the thighs, feet, legs, and buttocks, as well as potential loss of bowel and bladder control. As a further consequence, sexual activity is impaired. However, there is limited information on sexual function in patients undergoing LSS surgery, in general, and among male patients, in specific. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of LSS surgery on sexual function in male patients over 50 years. Materials and Methods: Participants were fifty male patients with LSS aged 50 years and older who underwent LSS surgery at the Imam Reza Hospital in Kermanshah from March 2024 to the end of 2024. To assess sexual performance over time, participants completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) questionnaire both before LSS surgery and six months after LSS surgery. For pre–post comparison, we used paired t-tests. Results: Compared to the pre-surgery stage, six-month post-surgery improvements were erectile function (+21%; Cohen’s d: 1.40), orgasmic function (+35.1%; Cohen’s d: 1.49), sexual desire (+27.3%; Cohen’s d: 1.48), intercourse satisfaction (+14% Cohen’s d: 0.77), overall satisfaction (+34.6% Cohen’s d: 1.74), and overall sexual function (+25.3%; Cohen’s d: 1.48). Conclusions: Among a sample of male patients aged 50 years and older, LSS surgery improved all dimensions of sexual satisfaction, including orgasmic, erectile, and sexual functions; sexual desire; intercourse satisfaction; and overall satisfaction. Medical doctors treating males with LSS might consider informing their patients about the favorable effects of LSS surgery on sexual life and sexual satisfaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Surgery)
11 pages, 784 KiB  
Article
The Safety and Efficacy of Vascular-Targeted Photodynamic Therapy in Low-Risk Prostate Cancer
by Pietro Saldutto, Fernando Cavacece, Roberto La Rocca, Ernesto Di Mauro, Vittore Verratti, Giuseppe Massimo Sangiorgi, Walter Vena, Gianluigi Patelli, Fabrizio Iacono, Francesco Di Bello, Luigi Napolitano and Vincenzo Maria Altieri
Cancers 2025, 17(4), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17040661 - 16 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1085
Abstract
Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most prevalent cancers in the world. Standard methods of screening and diagnosis for prostate cancer have been effective but can result in overtreatment of indolent prostate cancer, leading to increased morbidity. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging [...] Read more.
Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most prevalent cancers in the world. Standard methods of screening and diagnosis for prostate cancer have been effective but can result in overtreatment of indolent prostate cancer, leading to increased morbidity. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and fusion biopsy are effective tools to achieve better diagnostic accuracy. A combination of multiparametric MRI and photodynamic therapy can be used as an alternative to active surveillance in low-risk prostate cancer to better detect disease progression while avoiding overtreatment. Methods: We conducted a retrospective multicenter study on 13 patients with low-risk prostate cancer who underwent vascular-targeted photodynamic therapy. The patients were evaluated for up to 15 months after the procedure using biochemical parameters like serum Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), digital rectal examination, multiparametric MRI, and functional parameters like the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), the 15-question International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF-5), quality of life score (QoL), the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), and a uroflowmetry examination. Results: The patients did not experience any significant complications during or after the treatment. A decrease in serum PSA and prostate volume was observed from 7.38 ng/mL to 3.8 ng/ml with functional improvement evidenced by a decrease in the IPSS (from 15.4 to 11), QoL (from 3.15 to 2), and the IIEF-5 (from 17.23 to 16) score, and an improvement in uroflowmetry. Conclusion: Vascular-targeted photodynamic therapy is a safe and effective alternative to active surveillance in patients with low-risk prostate cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Treatment and Prognostic Factors of Urologic Cancer)
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13 pages, 265 KiB  
Article
Hormones, Age, and Erectile Dysfunction: Should Routine Testing Be Part of the Initial Evaluation?
by Daniel Porav-Hodade, Raul Dumitru Gherasim, Irina Bianca Kosovski, Toader Septimiu Voidazan, Nicolae Crisan, Petrut Bogdan, Radu Galis, Bogdan Ovidiu Feciche, Mártha Orsolya Katalin Ilona and Ciprian Todea-Moga
Diagnostics 2025, 15(3), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15030294 - 27 Jan 2025
Viewed by 2625
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between age, the severity of erectile dysfunction (ED), and the various hormones that may influence erectile function. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2023. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between age, the severity of erectile dysfunction (ED), and the various hormones that may influence erectile function. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2023. The study assessed age, sexual function using the IIEF-15 questionnaire, and the levels of total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin (PRL), and SHBG. Results: A total of 411 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 63.19 years. The vast majority (91.73%) exhibited some degree of ED. The severity of ED increases with age, ranging from 56.26 years for patients without ED to 73.12 years for those with severe ED. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between IIEF and age, while a positive correlation was observed between IIEF and serum levels of TT and FT (p < 0.05). Age was significantly correlated with all evaluated hormones (p < 0.01), except estradiol and prolactin. Total testosterone levels progressively decreased with the increase in the severity of erectile dysfunction, from a median of 7.05 ng/mL in patients with normal erectile function to 3.56 ng/mL in those with severe symptoms, remaining above the normal minimum threshold across all groups, whereas free testosterone (FT) levels also declined progressively. All erectile dysfunction groups had median FT levels below the normal minimum threshold. FSH, LH, and SHBG showed an increase with each progressive severity of erectile dysfunction. The multivariate linear regression revealed that IIEF scores are significantly associated with age, TT, and FT levels, while FSH did not present a statistically significant association in this model. Conclusions: Age shows a significant statistical correlation with both the severity of erectile dysfunction and the levels of total testosterone, free testosterone, LH, FSH, and SHBG. Total and free testosterone levels are significantly associated with the severity of erectile dysfunction, with free testosterone median values remaining above the normal minimum threshold in all patients with erectile dysfunction. Therefore, free testosterone should be considered a routine test, alongside total testosterone. In contrast, LH, estradiol, SHBG, and prolactin do not demonstrate any statistical correlation with erectile dysfunction and should not be recommended as routine investigations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Role of Diagnostic Biochemistry)
13 pages, 290 KiB  
Article
Prostate Dimensions and Their Impact on LUTS and Erectile Function: Is Length the Missing Link?
by Daniel Porav-Hodade, Mihai Dorin Vartolomei, Toader Septimiu Voidazan, Raul Gherasim, Iulia Andras, Ciprian Todea-Moga, Bogdan Ovidiu Feciche, Silvestru-Alexandru Big, Mártha Orsolya Katalin Ilona, Ioan Coman and Nicolae Crisan
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(23), 7123; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13237123 - 25 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1199
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The objective of this study is to explore potential correlations between prostate volume, LUTS, and IIEF, with a particular emphasis on the relationship between prostate dimensions—width, height, and length—and both LUTS and IIEF and to assess patients based on risk factors [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The objective of this study is to explore potential correlations between prostate volume, LUTS, and IIEF, with a particular emphasis on the relationship between prostate dimensions—width, height, and length—and both LUTS and IIEF and to assess patients based on risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, smoking, alcohol consumption, and PSA levels. Methods: A retrospective multicenter study was conducted between January 2007 and December 2023, focusing on male patients over the age of 40. The study evaluated hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, smoking, alcohol consumption, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) through the completion of the IPSS and QoL questionnaires, sexual function using the IIEF-15, and PSA levels. Abdominal ultrasound was performed to determine prostate volume and its dimensions (width, height, and length). Results: A total of 943 patients were included in the study, with a mean age of 61.89 ± 8.51 years. From the 40–49 age group to the 80–90 age group, IPSS increased from 10.29 to 14.26 points, PSA from 1.1 ng/mL to 3.05 ng/mL, and prostate volume from 23.79 mL to 41.16 mL. Meanwhile, over the same age intervals, IIEF showed a decline from 52.57 to 24.76 points. The IPSS demonstrated a statistically significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) with prostate volume and patient age, while showing an inverse correlation with IIEF. The only statistically significant correlation between IPSS and prostate dimensions was with the length diameter of the prostate (p = 0.011). The severity of sexual symptoms was inversely correlated with both prostate volume and age. Additionally, IIEF was negatively correlated with the width and length diameters of the prostate. Hypertension (p = 0.57), diabetes (p = 0.57), smoking (p = 0.76), and alcohol consumption (p = 0.27) did not have a statistically significant impact on IPSS, and IIEF except for cardiovascular diseases, which showed a significant correlation with IPSS in patients experiencing moderate to severe symptoms (p = 0.0001). The statistically significant correlation between cardiovascular diseases and IIEF was observed only in patients with severe symptoms (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: There is a correlation between prostate volume, IPSS, and IIEF. Only length of the prostate shows a statistically significant correlation with both IPSS and IIEF. PSA levels increase progressively with each decade of age. Hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and alcohol consumption do not have a statistically significant impact on LUTS and erectile function. Cardiovascular diseases show a correlation with patients experiencing moderate to severe LUTS, as well as with those who have severe symptoms according to the IIEF evaluation. Full article
12 pages, 642 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Bio-Electromagnetic Energy Regulation Therapy on Erectile Dysfunction in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Triple-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial
by Abdulaziz Ali Y. Alzharani, Ali M. Alshami, Turki Abualait, Hatem Al Azman, Foziah Jabbar Alshamrani, Yahya Hilal Alzahrani and Youssef A. Althobaiti
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(23), 7060; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13237060 - 22 Nov 2024
Viewed by 4687
Abstract
Objectives: To evaluate the effect of bio-electromagnetic energy regulation (BEMER) therapy on erectile dysfunction (ED) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: A triple-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted in two different centers. Fifty-two male participants with MS were randomly allocated into [...] Read more.
Objectives: To evaluate the effect of bio-electromagnetic energy regulation (BEMER) therapy on erectile dysfunction (ED) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: A triple-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted in two different centers. Fifty-two male participants with MS were randomly allocated into two groups. Patients received either three weeks of BEMER with pelvic floor exercises or sham BEMER with pelvic floor exercises. The primary measure was the International Index of Erectile Function—Erectile Function (IIEF-EF). Secondary measures included the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM), Erection Hardness Scale (EHS), Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (AXES), Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS), and Multiple Sclerosis, Intimacy, and Sexuality Questionnaire (MSISQ-19). Results: Compared to the sham BEMER group, the BEMER group showed better improvements in the IIEF-EF (mean difference [MD]: −6.9, p < 0.001), SHIM (MD: −6.1, p < 0.001), EHS (MD: −0.4, p = 0.022), AXES (MD: 2.9, p = 0.030), MSISQ-19 (MD: 15.0, p < 0.001), and MFIS (MD: 31.0, p < 0.001). Conclusions: BEMER therapy improved erectile function and sexual satisfaction and reduced fatigue in patients with MS after three weeks of intervention. Long-term follow-up studies are warranted to ascertain the sustained benefits of BEMER therapy for MS-related ED. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Reproductive Medicine & Andrology)
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12 pages, 4232 KiB  
Article
Transperineal Laser Ablation for Focal Therapy of Localized Prostate Cancer: 12-Month Follow-up Outcomes from a Single Prospective Cohort Study
by Valerio Iacovelli, Marco Carilli, Riccardo Bertolo, Valerio Forte, Matteo Vittori, Beatrice Filippi, Giulia Di Giovanni, Chiara Cipriani, Filomena Petta, Francesco Maiorino, Marta Signoretti, Michele Antonucci, Alessio Guidotti, Stefano Travaglia, Francesco Caputo, Guglielmo Manenti and Pierluigi Bove
Cancers 2024, 16(15), 2620; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16152620 - 23 Jul 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2098
Abstract
Introduction and objectives: To evaluate the oncological and functional outcomes of transperineal laser ablation (TPLA) as the focal therapy for localized prostate cancer (PCa) after a 12-month follow-up. Materials and methods: Patients with low- and intermediate-risk localized PCa were prospectively treated with focal [...] Read more.
Introduction and objectives: To evaluate the oncological and functional outcomes of transperineal laser ablation (TPLA) as the focal therapy for localized prostate cancer (PCa) after a 12-month follow-up. Materials and methods: Patients with low- and intermediate-risk localized PCa were prospectively treated with focal TPLA between July 2021 and December 2022. The inclusion criteria were the following: clinical stage < T2b; PSA < 20 ng/mL; International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade ≤ 2; MRI-fusion biopsy-confirmed lesion classified as PI-RADS v2.1 ≥ 3. Intra-, peri-, and post-operative data were collected. Variables including age, PSA, prostate volume (PVol), Charlson’s Comorbidity Index (CCI), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) with QoL score, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire—Short Form (ICIQ-SF), and Male Sexual Health Questionnaire—Ejaculatory Dysfunction Short Form (MSHQ-EjD) were collected at baseline and at 3, 6 and 12 months after TPLA. Post-operative mpMRI was performed at 3 and 12 months. Finally, all patients underwent prostatic re-biopsy under fusion guidance at 12 months. The success of this technique was defined as no recurrence in the target treated lesion at the 12-month follow up. Results: Twenty-four patients underwent focal TPLA. Baseline features were age [median 67 years (IQR 12)], PSA [5.7 ng/mL (3.9)], PVol [49 mL (27)], CCI [0 (0)], IPSS [11 (9)], IPSS-QoL [2 (2)], IIEF-5 [21 (6)], ICIQ-SF [0 (7)], MSHQ-EjD ejaculation domain [14 (4)] and bother score [0 (2)]. Median operative time was 34 min (IQR 12). Median visual analogue scale (VAS) 6 h after TPLA was 0 (IQR 1). The post-operative course was regular for all patients, who were discharged on the second post-operative day and underwent catheter removal on the seventh post-operative day. No patient had incontinence at catheter removal. A significant reduction in PSA (p = 0.01) and an improvement in IPSS (p = 0.009), IPSS-QoL (p = 0.02) and ICIQ-SF scores (p = 0.04) compared to baseline were observed at the 3-month follow-up. Erectile and ejaculatory functions did not show any significant variation during the follow-up. No intra- and peri-operative complications were recorded. Three Clavien–Dindo post-operative complications were recorded (12%): grade 1 (two cases of urinary retention) and grade 2 (one case of urinary tract infection). At the 12-month follow-up, eight patients showed mpMRI images referable to suspicious recurrent disease (PIRADS v2.1 ≥ 3). After re-biopsy, 7/24 patients’ (29%) results were histologically confirmed as PCa, 3 of which were recurrences in the treated lesion (12.5%). The success rate was 87.5%. Conclusions: The focal TPLA oncological and functional results seemed to be encouraging. TPLA is a safe, painless, and effective technique with a good preservation of continence and sexual outcomes. Recurrence rate at 12 months was about 12.5%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Methods and Technologies Development)
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20 pages, 836 KiB  
Article
Clinical Presentation of Peyronie’s Disease: A Retrospective Study of 564 Cases
by Gianni Paulis, Giovanni De Giorgio and Andrea Paulis
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111125 - 29 May 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2646
Abstract
Peyronie’s disease (PD) affects the penile albuginea, resulting in penile deformity, pain, erectile dysfunction (ED), and an anxious–depressive state. PD diagnosis involves a thorough medical history, penile palpation, documentation of the penile deformation, a dynamic penile echo color Doppler ultrasound (PCDU), and the [...] Read more.
Peyronie’s disease (PD) affects the penile albuginea, resulting in penile deformity, pain, erectile dysfunction (ED), and an anxious–depressive state. PD diagnosis involves a thorough medical history, penile palpation, documentation of the penile deformation, a dynamic penile echo color Doppler ultrasound (PCDU), and the completion of questionnaires for the evaluation of pain, ED, and psychometric tests. The aim of this study was to evaluate the symptoms of PD and their prevalence in PD patients in the active phase who had access to our andrology clinic. Inclusion criteria: availability of data on patients diagnosed with PD, including detailed medical history, blood tests, penile palpation, photographic documentation of penile deformity, and penile PCDU. Exclusion criteria: PD patients in the stable phase or those without the specified tests and data mentioned above. Our study found a higher prevalence of PD in younger patients (24.2%), a higher coexistence of PD with chronic prostatitis (35.6%), a higher percentage of cases of association between penile deformity and penile curvature (84.4%), a higher prevalence of “significant anxiety” (88.4%), a higher presence of plaque calcification (35.6%), and the detection of a longer duration of the first phase of PD (>18 months). The most frequently observed type of penile curvature was dorsal, followed by left lateral, right lateral, and, less commonly, ventral. We observed a significant statistical correlation between patient age and IIEF score, indicating that patients over the age of 40 years are at a higher risk of experiencing ED. We found a strong statistical relationship between VAS score and age. As age increases, the VAS score decreases, suggesting that younger patients reported more penile pain compared to those who were older than 40 years. Furthermore, we found that penile pain has a significant impact on the psychological state of PD patients. We also found that 38.8% of PD patients suffered from severe anxiety. In relation to this, psychotherapy should be integrated into PD treatment to improve the quality of life and treatment adherence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prognosis of Urological Diseases)
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9 pages, 531 KiB  
Article
Icarifil® in Association with Daily Use of Tadalafil (5 mg) versus Standard Tadalafil Daily Dose (5 mg) or Alone: Results from a Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial
by Tommaso Cai, Fabrizio Palumbo, Carlos Miacola, Carlo Ceruti, Michele Rizzo, Giovanni Liguori, Luca Gallelli and Alessandro Palmieri
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2564; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092564 - 26 Apr 2024
Viewed by 3786
Abstract
Background: The management of erectile dysfunction (ED) shows several grey zones and new treatments are required to reduce the percentage of patients discontinuing treatment. Here, we aim to evaluate the role of a natural mixture named Icarifil® (L-Citrulline, L-Carnitine, Eruca vesicaria, [...] Read more.
Background: The management of erectile dysfunction (ED) shows several grey zones and new treatments are required to reduce the percentage of patients discontinuing treatment. Here, we aim to evaluate the role of a natural mixture named Icarifil® (L-Citrulline, L-Carnitine, Eruca vesicaria, Panax ginseng, Tribulus terrestris, Turnera diffusa, Taurine, Vitamin E, Zinc) in the management of patients with ED. Methods: From September 2022 to March 2023, all patients attending 3 urological institutions due to ED were randomized to receive the following for 3 months: Icarifil® 1 sachet every 24 h (Group 1) or Icarifil® 1 sachet + tadalafil 5 mg 1 tablet every 24 h (Group 2) or tadalafil 5 mg 1 tablet daily (Group 3). All patients underwent urologic visits and dedicated questionnaires (IIEF-5, SEP-2, SEP-3) at enrollment and at the follow-up evaluation (3 months). Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) at the follow-up evaluation were used. The primary endpoint was the difference in the questionnaires at the follow-up visit compared to the one at enrollment among the study groups. Results: In the per-protocol analysis, 52 patients in Group 1, 55 in Group 2 and 57 in Group 3 were analyzed. At the follow-up evaluation, IIEF-5 scores improved in all the 3 groups between enrollment and the follow-up evaluation, but a statistically significant difference was reported between Group 2 (+7.4) and Group 1 (+4.1) or Group 3 (+5.1), (p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Moreover, 47 patients (94.0%) in Group 2 showed an improvement in the SEP questionnaires, when compared with the baseline, while 29 in Group 1 (56.9%) and 42 in Group 3 (82.3%) showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.004; p = 0.003) among the groups. The PRO analysis reported better efficacy and patient satisfaction in Group 2 when compared with Group 1 or Group 3. Conclusions: In conclusion, Icarifil® is able to improve penile erectile function in mild–moderate ED and significantly improve the clinical efficacy of daily used tadalafil 5 mg. Icarifil® could represent an interesting alternative treatment in patients experiencing adverse effects or with contraindications for chronic treatment with PDE5-is. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Reproductive Medicine & Andrology)
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13 pages, 886 KiB  
Article
Sexual Dysfunction in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): A Cross-Sectional, Case-Control Study
by Svetlana Blitshteyn, Anna Lange, Chelsea Corinaldi, Paige Guy and Jill Brook
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(8), 2274; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13082274 - 14 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 13494
Abstract
Background: We aimed to determine whether patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) have sexual dysfunction compared to age-matched healthy controls. Methods: Utilizing online COMPASS-31 to evaluate dysautonomia symptom severity, Beck’s Depression Inventory Second Edition (BDII), Female Sexual Function (FSF), and International Index [...] Read more.
Background: We aimed to determine whether patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) have sexual dysfunction compared to age-matched healthy controls. Methods: Utilizing online COMPASS-31 to evaluate dysautonomia symptom severity, Beck’s Depression Inventory Second Edition (BDII), Female Sexual Function (FSF), and International Index of Erection Function (IIEF) questionnaires, we compared sexual function scores in patients with POTS to scores obtained from sex- and age-matched healthy controls via a cross-sectional case–control study. Results: A total of 160 women with POTS, mean age 30.2 ± 7.9 (range 21–50 years), had lower FSF scores than 62 healthy age-matched female controls. IIEF scores in 29 male patients with POTS with a mean age of 30.1 ± 6.0 (range 21–47) were significantly lower than in 27 healthy age-matched male controls. Female POTS patients had significantly lower scores in the sub-domains of desire, arousal, and satisfaction, while male POTS patients had significantly lower scores in erectile and orgasmic function, desire, and satisfaction than healthy controls. Predictive factors of sexual dysfunction were depression in women and age in men. The severity of autonomic symptoms correlated with sexual dysfunction in women, but this effect disappeared after controlling for depression. Conclusions: Compared to healthy controls, women and men with POTS have significant sexual dysfunction, which needs to be considered in the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches as part of comprehensive patient care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS))
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11 pages, 869 KiB  
Article
Erectile Dysfunction as an Obesity-Related Condition in Elderly Men with Coronary Artery Disease
by Małgorzata Biernikiewicz, Małgorzata Sobieszczańska, Ewa Szuster, Anna Pawlikowska-Gorzelańczyk, Anna Janocha, Krystyna Rożek-Piechura, Agnieszka Rusiecka, Jana Gebala, Paulina Okrzymowska and Dariusz Kałka
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 2087; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13072087 - 3 Apr 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2504
Abstract
Background: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in elderly men with overweight or obesity and coronary artery disease. Methods: Patients recruited in cardiac rehabilitation centers post-myocardial infarction provided demographic and anthropomorphic data. ED was assessed [...] Read more.
Background: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in elderly men with overweight or obesity and coronary artery disease. Methods: Patients recruited in cardiac rehabilitation centers post-myocardial infarction provided demographic and anthropomorphic data. ED was assessed using the abbreviated International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5) Questionnaire. Results: The study included 661 men with a mean age of 67.3 ± 5.57 years, a mean BMI of 27.9 ± 3.6 m/kg2, and a mean waist circumference of 98.9 ± 10.23 cm. Over 90% of men experienced ED, with similar proportions across BMI categories. The development of ED in men with a waist circumference of ≥100 cm had 3.74 times higher odds (OR 3.74; 95% CI: 1.0–13.7; p = 0.04) than in men with a waist circumference of <100 cm. Men with obesity and moderate-to-severe and severe ED were older compared to those without these disorders (67.1 ± 5.29 vs. 65.3 ± 4.35; p = 0.23). Conclusions: The prevalence of ED in men with coronary artery disease surpasses 90%. An increased body weight raises the risk of ED, with waist circumference proving to be a more reliable predictor of this risk compared to BMI. Physicians are encouraged to screen elderly patients with cardiovascular disease for ED and address obesity to enhance overall health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevalence and Risk Factors of Obesity and Hypertension)
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17 pages, 1217 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Males and Urinary Incontinence in Females in Primary Health Care in Greece
by Claire Gkatzoudi, Izolde Bouloukaki, Charalampos Mamoulakis, Christos Lionis and Ioanna Tsiligianni
Medicina 2024, 60(3), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60030389 - 25 Feb 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2517
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The significant prevalence of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS), erectile dysfunction (ED), and associated adverse effects calls for increased attention in primary care settings. In Greece, there is a lack of sufficient data for LUTS and ED screening in [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The significant prevalence of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS), erectile dysfunction (ED), and associated adverse effects calls for increased attention in primary care settings. In Greece, there is a lack of sufficient data for LUTS and ED screening in primary care. Therefore, the aim of our study was to estimate the prevalence of LUTS and ED, identify associated risk factors, and evaluate their impact on quality of life among adult primary healthcare users aged 40 years and older in Crete, Greece. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to explore the prevalence of LUTS and ED in 1746 primary health care users visiting rural primary health care practices in Crete, Greece. Participants underwent a comprehensive evaluation including demographic parameters, screening for LUTS utilizing the validated International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) questionnaire and for ED using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), in males, and for urinary incontinence in women with the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire–Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF). Participants with a prior diagnosis of LUTS or ED were excluded (n = 183). Results: Out of 536 participants finally included (n = 1746 screened), 32% of males and 36% of females exhibited moderate to severe LUTS. Following adjustments, we identified advanced age, retirement, and the presence of diabetes type 2 as factors associated with the occurrence of LUTS in men. Patients with LUTS also had a substantially increased likelihood of experiencing ED. Moreover, it was observed that women with hypertension or diabetes type 2 and lower education levels face an increased likelihood of developing LUTS, which adversely affects their quality of life. Conclusions: In conclusion, the findings of this study reveal a high occurrence of LUTS and ED in adults aged 40 years and older who utilize primary healthcare services, with a negative impact on their quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Urology & Nephrology)
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