Predictors of erectile dysfunction among male patients with idiopathic interstitial pneumonias

Background Sexual dysfunction is a neglected area among patients with idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs). Hence, the aim of this study is to identify the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and its predictors in male patients with IIPs. Patients and methods A total 65 male patients (45 IIPs and 20 controls) were assessed; clinical data, testosterone levels, pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gases, and self-reported questionnaires on erectile function. Results The prevalence of ED was 66.7 and 11.1% of them presented with severe ED. The mean age of the patients was 33.4±5.9 years. Of the patients, 60% were smokers and 17.8% were nonsmokers. Regarding comorbid manifestations, 26.7% was hypertensive, 51.1% had diabetes mellitus, 42.2% with dyslipidemia, and 17.8% had ischemic heart disease. The mean duration since the diagnosis of IIPs was 7.46±2.77 years, whereas the mean time since evolution of ED was 2.17±1.3 years. A significant decrease in mean arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) and oxygen saturation (SaO2) were observed in the IIPs group. Also, the mean diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO%) and testosterone level were decreased. A significant decrease in testosterone level among patients with severe diffusion defect was observed (P=0.000). The most predictors for ED were PaO2 (≤60 mmHg), SaO2 (≤88%), and DLCO≤60%. Conclusion ED is a common problem in patients with IIPs. Thus, physicians should keep in mind that IIPs patients need a comprehensive sexual evaluation. This is the first study to report that low PaO2, SaO2, and DLCO≤60% were the predictor risk factors.