Marital Sexual Dysfunction: Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract

All clinicians are occasionally consulted by impotent men. The history is most important in the differential diagnostic process for this symptom. Answers to 4 basic questions enable the physician to recognize classic psychologic and organic patterns. These questions also provide clues as to the cause of the dysfunction. Physical and laboratory examinations are usually required to identify the specific organic cause. Traditional prevalence figures for impotence may no longer be valid. Epidemiologic data may reflect current diagnostic sophistication. Individual treatment approaches to both organic and psychologic impotence must counteract the adverse influence of performance anxiety.