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Asian Journal of Andrology (2012) 14, 198-203; doi:10.1038/aja.2011.106; published online 9 January 2012
Impact of androgen deprivation therapy on sexual function
Clarisse R Mazzola and John P Mulhall
Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program, Urology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
Correspondence: Dr JP Mulhall, (mulhalj1@mskcc.org)
Received 29 September 2011; Revised 14 October 2011; Accepted 16 November 2011
Advance online publication 9 January 2012
| Abstract |
Many patients with prostate cancer for whom androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is indicated are young and desire to remain sexually active. In such patients, the side effects of androgen therapy on sexual function can be a source of serious reduction in overall quality of life. Providing the appropriate treatment options in this patient population is therefore essential. Nevertheless, treating such patients is challenging and an understanding of the underlying mechanisms of sexual physiology and pathophysiology is crucial to optimal patient care. In this paper, we reviewed what was known regarding the effects of ADT on sexual function in animal models and we also provided a detailed review on the effects of ADT on sexual health in humans and its treatment.
Keywords: androgen deprivation therapy; castration; ejaculation; erectile dysfunction; orgasm |
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