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Thyroid disorders and male sexual dysfunction

International Journal of Impotence Research (2023)Cite this article

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Abstract

Though early research suggested that thyroid hormones were not involved with the testes, male spermatogenesis, or erectile function, investigations on this topic over the past few decades have increased and shed new light. A literature review of studies conducted between 1963 and 2022 regarding male sexual dysfunction (SD) and thyroid disorders was performed to define the diagnostic consideration, pathophysiology, and management of SD secondary to thyroid dysregulation. This article provides evidence and interpretation of prior clinical and preclinical studies and contextualizes these studies for clinical practice. Clinical manifestations of SDs included erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction, impaired spermatogenesis, and disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Our aim of this communication was to perform a literature review detailing the impact of thyroid disorders on male SD. We hope to provide a framework for practicing urologists, endocrinologists, or general practitioners when evaluating patients with concurrent thyroid and male SD. It is important to recognize that thyroid disorders can be an important part of the pathophysiology of male SD in patients. Future research studies are needed to further elucidate the mechanisms involved.

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Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank Scott Bailey, PhD, Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Medicine, for editing and preparing this manuscript.

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  1. Department of Urology, Section of Andrology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA

    Rohan Morenas, Danish Singh & Wayne J. G. Hellstrom

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Conceived and/or designed the work that led to the submission, acquired data, and/or played an important role in interpreting the results: RM, DS, and WJGH. Drafted or revised the manuscript: RM, DS, and WJGH. Approved the final version: WJGH. Agreed to be accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved: WJGH.

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Correspondence to Wayne J. G. Hellstrom.

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Morenas, R., Singh, D. & Hellstrom, W.J.G. Thyroid disorders and male sexual dysfunction. Int J Impot Res (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-023-00768-4

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