Challenges in the assessment of erectile dysfunction and treatment with oral therapies: review with case examples.

PURPOSE: To review the clinical dimensions, etiology, assessment, and treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and to increase awareness of oral therapies for this condition. DATA SOURCES: Scientific literature, consensus guidelines, and manufacturers' product information and guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: A prevalent condition, particularly in middle-aged and elderly men, ED is vastly underreported and undertreated. Oral therapies, including phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, are effective and well tolerated in many patients and represent potential first-line treatments for ED. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: ED has been associated with both life-threatening illnesses and reduced quality of life. Improving recognition and treatment of this condition and counseling patients about ED represent important clinical opportunities. A broad and expanding array of ED treatments enable therapy to be individualized to the needs of patients and their partners.