Determinants of sexual dysfunction in male and female patients with parkinson's disease

Abstract

Objective: Due to the complex nature of Parkinson's disease (PD) and distinct sexual physiologies, male and female patients might have different patterns of sexual dysfunction (SD) in PD. The aim of this study was to assess determinants of SD in female and male patients with PD. Methods: Seventy nine outpatients with idiopathic PD (46 male, 33 female; mean age: 67.51 +/- 8.27) were recruited between December 2007 and February 2011. Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale and Hoehn-Yahr stages, Hamilton depression and anxiety scales, Mini-Mental State Examination and Arizona Sexual Experiences scale were the measures. Results: Determinants of SD in the whole group were age and anxiety. Age at disease onset and anxiety designated SD in female group, while age and severity of motor symptoms designated SD in male group. Conclusion: Both in males and females, gonadal steroids decline with advancing age. Dopamine has role in desire, erection, reward-seeking behavior phases of sexuality. Dopamine depletion may cause SD with its dual effects, including erectile dysfunction as well as motor disturbances in PD in male patients. Anxiety effect females more than males due to affected body image and perception of the self.