SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN MALE MULTIPLE-SCLEROSIS PATIENTS IN RELATION TOCLINICAL FINDINGS

Seventy-seven consecutive male patients with clinically definite or la boratory supported definite multiple sclerosis were submitted to a que stionnaire and a clinical interview in order to assess the frequency, the nature of sexual dysfunction and its relationship with clinical En dings. Twenty-six patients (35%) complained of erectile dysfunction: t he defect was partial and inconstant in 11 patients (14%), complete an d fixed in 15 (21%). Six patients complained of premature ejaculation, in three of whom the symptom was already present before the onset of the disease. Taking the series as a whole, sexual life was poor or not satisfying at all in 34 patients. Erectile dysfunction was associated with the presence and severity of bladder dysfunction and with disabi lity. The relationship with sensory impairment of legs was slight, no relationship was found with motor involvement of legs, type of course, age and disease duration.