Erectile dysfunction in older adult
Keywords:
Elderly; Bacilloscopy; Miliary tuberculosis.Abstract
Introduction: Erectile dysfunction is a highly prevalent sexual dysfunction in older men, with implications for their quality of life. Its etiology is multifactorial, encompassing sexological, organic, psychogenic components, and factors inherent to aging.Objective: To analyze the epidemiological, pathophysiological, assessment, and management evidence for erectile dysfunction in the geriatric population, within the framework of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (fifth edition), using a comprehensive sexological approach.Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane, and LILACS. The search was based on the use of DeCS/MeSH descriptors, with selection criteria prioritizing scientific documents such as systematic reviews, meta-analyses, clinical practice guidelines, and observational studies relevant to the topic.Results: The prevalence of erectile dysfunction exceeds 60% after age 70. Vasculogenic endothelial dysfunction is its primary underlying cause, exacerbated by polypharmacy, late-onset hypogonadism, and psychosocial factors. Comprehensive geriatric assessment is essential. Optimal management is stepwise and individualized, integrating lifestyle modifications, sex therapy, and psychological therapy, along with the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors as first-line treatment, and second- and third-line therapies for refractory cases.Conclusions: Erectile dysfunction in older adults is a complex geriatric syndrome requiring an interdisciplinary and destigmatizing approach. Assessment and personalized treatment in geriatric care are essential to improve sexual health and overall well-being in this population.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Daimara Barrera León; Yuniel Abreu Hernández; Félix Rafael Wert Tellez, Noemí Coello Pérez, Jorge Luis Lorente Montiel
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