A non-latex condom has no influence on male physiological sexual arousal.

Background/Objective: Men do not use external condoms for several reasons, which can result in public health problems. One of these is related to Condom-Associated Erectile Problems. This study aimed to examine the sexual arousal response of heterosexual men when using an external condom made of synthetic resin type AT-10. Method: A total of 82 Colombian young men (Mage = 23.17 years, SD = 3.04, age range = 18-30) participated in this experimental study. Two random groups (experimental and control; n = 41 each) were compared. The experimental group used condoms, whereas the control group did not. Fit and feel condom perceptions, initial erectile scores, age, and substance use were controlled for. Erection was measured while viewing a sexual video by using penile plethysmography and subjective arousal. Results: The results, obtained from comparing the experimental group (using pre-erection condoms) with the control group (not using condoms), revealed no significant difference in both subjective and physiological sexual arousal. This suggests that pre-erection condoms do not have an effect on the erectile response. Discussion: More research is needed in this area to provide treatment and clinical interventions or sexual and reproductive education to mitigate the occurrence of sexual dysfunction, unplanned pregnancies, or sexually transmitted infections. Also, research addresses public health issues related to the prevention and/or intervention of sexual risk behaviors and sexual dysfunctions, highlighting their significance in sexual education and clinical practice.

6-Nitrodopamine is an endogenous mediator of the rabbit corpus cavernosum relaxation.

BACKGROUND: 6-Nitrodopamine (6-ND) is a novel endogenous catecholamine that has a potent relaxant action on vascular smooth muscle in vitro. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the basal release of 6-ND and noradrenaline from rabbit-isolated corpus cavernosum (RbCC) and its relaxing action on this tissue. METHODS: Rabbit corpus cavernosa were dissected and suspended in a 5-mL organ bath containing oxygenated Krebs-Henseleit's solution. 6-ND and noradrenaline release was quantified by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. The relaxant activity of 6-ND was assessed in RbCC strips pre-contracted with endothelin-1 (10 nM). RESULTS: Rabbit corpus cavernosum presented basal release of both 6-ND (2.9 ± 0.8 ng/mL, n = 12) and noradrenaline (1.7 ± 1.3 ng/mL, n = 12). The 6-ND release was reduced by pre-treatment with Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) (100 µM), whereas that of noradrenaline was unaffected. Tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 µM) abolished the noradrenaline release but had no effect on 6-ND release, indicating a non-neurogenic origin for 6-ND. 6-ND and the selective dopamine D2-agonist L-741,626 caused concentration-dependent RbCC relaxations (pEC50 of 11 ± 0.15 and 11.15 ± 0.28, respectively). Pre-treatment with either l-NAME or the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4] oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-on (ODQ) (100 µM) caused a rightward shift of the concentration-response curve to 6-ND, without affecting the L-741,626 responses. In TTX (100 nM)-pre-treated preparations, neither l-NAME nor ODQ shifted the 6-ND concentration-response curve. Dopamine, noradrenaline, and adrenaline caused concentration-dependent RbCC contractions. Pre-incubation with 6-ND concentration-dependently inhibited the dopamine-induced contractions, without affecting those induced by either noradrenaline or adrenaline. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: 6-Nitrodopamine is the most potent endogenous relaxant agent in RbCC ever described and represents a novel mechanism by which NO causes corpus cavernosum smooth muscle relaxation. The finding that 6-ND acts as a truly selective dopamine D2-receptor antagonist indicates that the balance of dopamine and 6-ND release/synthesis may be the main mechanism that modulates corpus cavernosum smooth muscle tonus in vivo.

The elusive concept of sexual motivation: can it be anchored in the nervous system?

Sexual motivation is an abstract concept referring to the mechanisms determining the responsivity to sexually relevant stimuli. This responsivity determines the likelihood of producing a sexual response and the intensity of that response. Both responsivity to stimuli and the likelihood of making a response as well as the intensity of response are characteristics of an individual. Therefore, we need to assume that the concept of sexual motivation materializes in physiological mechanisms within the individual. The aim of the present communication is to analyze the requisites for the endeavor to materialize sexual motivation. The first requisite is to provide an operational definition, making the concept quantifiable. We show that parameters of copulatory behavior are inappropriate. We argue that the intensity of sexual approach behaviors provides the best estimate of sexual motivation in non-human animals, whereas the magnitude of genital responses is an exquisite indicator of human sexual motivation. Having assured how to quantify sexual motivation, we can then proceed to the search for physiological or neurobiological underpinnings. In fact, sexual motivation only manifests itself in animals exposed to appropriate amounts of gonadal hormones. In female rats, the estrogen receptor α in the ventrolateral part of the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus is necessary for the expression of sexual approach behaviors. In male rats, androgen receptors within the medial preoptic area are crucial. Thus, in rats sexual motivation can be localized to specific brain structures, and even to specific cells within these structures. In humans, it is not even known if sexual motivation is materialized in the brain or in peripheral structures. Substantial efforts have been made to determine the relationship between the activity of neurotransmitters and the intensity of sexual motivation, particularly in rodents. The results of this effort have been meager. Likewise, efforts of finding drugs to stimulate sexual motivation, particularly in women complaining of low sexual desire, have produced dismal results. In sum, it appears that the abstract concept of sexual motivation can be reliably quantified, and the neurobiological bases can be described in non-human animals. In humans, objective quantification is feasible, but the neurobiological substrate remains enigmatic.

Producción científica en investigación sobre avances terapéuticos de la Enfermedad de Peyronie durante los últimos 62 años. Un análisis bibliométrico / Scientific production on research on therapeutic advances in Peyronie's Disease during the last 62 Years. A bibliometric analysis / Produção científica em pesquisa sobre avanços terapêuticos na Doença de Peyronie nos últimos 62 anos. Uma análise bibliométrica

Introducción. La enfermedad de Peyronie es una malformación adquirida del pene, originada por la deposición de placas fibróticas en la túnica albugínea. La prevalencia en Estados Unidos oscila entre el 0.39% y 11.8%, en Europa 8.9%, en Latinoamérica no existe un porcentaje puntual de prevalencia actual debido a la escasez de reportes de esta patología. Este análisis bibliométrico busca describir la evolución terapéutica de la Enfermedad de Peyronie en la literatura de los últimos 62 años, así como la distribución geográfica de estas publicaciones. Metodología. Estudio observacional, descriptivo, un análisis bibliométrico desde 1957 hasta 2019, utilizando GoPubMed y FABUMED. Resultados. Se obtuvieron 721 referencias sobre tratamiento quirúrgico en enfermedad de Peyronie, con un aumento de la producción científica a lo largo del periodo de estudio. The Journal of Urology fue la revista con mayor cantidad de publicaciones, el 57.9% dentro de la categoría de artículo científico. El país líder fue Estados Unidos con 191 publicaciones. Discusión. Existe poca literatura sobre los avances terapéuticos para el tratamiento de enfermedad de Peyronie, lo que dificulta la comparación de las investigaciones a lo largo de los años en diferentes zonas del mundo. La investigación en Latinoamérica es escasa. Conclusión. La investigación sobre el tratamiento quirúrgico en enfermedad de Peyronie muestra un patrón ascendente en la productividad científica durante los años estudiados. Los países con mayores ingresos económicos son de mayor desarrollo en el tema y en menor medida regiones con recursos limitados. El análisis evidencia la importancia de aumentar producción científica en Colombia, así como estimular la investigación sobre este tema, ya que existen muy pocas publicaciones sobre la evolución del tratamiento quirúrgico para esta enfermedad. Palabras clave: Induración Peniana; Enfermedades del Pene; Bibliometría; Fibrosis; Erección Peniana

Introduction. Peyronie's disease is an acquired malformation of the penis, caused by the deposition of fibrotic plaques in the tunica albuginea. The prevalence in the United States ranges between 0.39% and 11.8%, in Europe 8.9%, in Latin America there is no specific percentage of current prevalence due to the scarcity of reports of this pathology. This bibliometric analysis seeks to describe the therapeutic evolution of Peyronie's Disease in the literature over the last 62 years, as well as the geographic distribution of these publications. Methodology. This is an observational, descriptive study, with a bibliometric analysis from 1957 to 2019, using GoPubMed and FABUMED. Results. 721 references on surgical treatment in Peyronie's disease were obtained, with an increase in scientific production throughout the study period. The Journal of Urology was the journal with the highest number of publications, 57.9% within the scientific article category. The leading country was the United States with 191 publications. Discussion. There is a limited amount of literature on therapeutic advances for the treatment of Peyronie's disease, which makes it difficult to compare research over the years in different areas of the world. Research in Latin America is scarce. Conclusion. Research on surgical treatment in Peyronie's disease shows an increasing pattern in scientific productivity over the years. Countries with higher economic income have greater development in the subject and to a lesser extent regions with limited resources. The analysis shows the importance of increasing scientific production in Colombia, as well as stimulating research on this topic, since there are few publications on the evolution of surgical treatment for this disease. Keywords: Penile Induration; Penile Diseases; Bibliometrics; Fibrosis; Penile Erection

Introdução. A doença de Peyronie é uma malformação adquirida do pênis, causada pela deposição de placas fibróticas na túnica albugínea. A prevalência nos Estados Unidos varia entre 0.39% e 11.8%, na Europa 8.9%, na América Latina não existe um percentual específico de prevalência atual devido à escassez de relatos desta patologia. Esta análise bibliométrica tem como objetivo descrever a evolução terapêutica da Doença de Peyronie na literatura dos últimos 62 anos, bem como a distribuição geográfica destas publicações. Metodologia. Estudo observacional, descritivo, análise bibliométrica de 1957 a 2019, utilizando GoPubMed e FABUMED. Resultados. Foram obtidas 721 referências sobre tratamento cirúrgico na doença de Peyronie, com aumento da produção científica ao longo do período do estudo. The Journal of Urology foi o periódico com maior número de publicações, 57.9% dentro da categoria artigo científico. O país líder foram os Estados Unidos com 191 publicações. Discussão. Há pouca literatura sobre avanços terapêuticos para o tratamento da doença de Peyronie, o que dificulta a comparação de pesquisas ao longo dos anos em diferentes partes do mundo. As pesquisas na América Latina são escassas. Conclusão. As pesquisas sobre o tratamento cirúrgico da doença de Peyronie mostram um padrão crescente de produtividade científica ao longo dos anos estudados. Os países com maior rendimento económico são mais desenvolvidos no assunto e, em menor medida, regiões com recursos limitados. A análise mostra a importância de aumentar a produção científica na Colômbia, bem como estimular a pesquisa sobre o tema, uma vez que existem poucas publicações sobre a evolução do tratamento cirúrgico desta doença. Palavras-chave: Induração Peniana; Doenças do Pênis; Bibliometria; Fibrose; Ereção Peniana

Erectile Dysfunction: Key Role of Cavernous Smooth Muscle Cells.

Erectile dysfunction is increasingly affecting men, from the elderly to young adults, being a sexual disorder related to the inability to generate or maintain a penile erection. This disorder is related to psychosocial factors such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, to organic factors such as the presence of preexisting conditions like hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia. The pathophysiology of the disease is related to changes in the neurotransmission of the autonomic or the non-cholinergic non-adrenergic nervous system, as well as the release of local mediators, such as thromboxane A2 and endothelin, and hormonal action. These changes lead to impaired relaxation of cavernous smooth muscle, which reduces local blood flow and impairs penile erection. Currently, therapy is based on oral vasodilation, such as sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil and iodenafil, or by direct administration of these agents into the corpus cavernosum or by intraurethral route, such as alprostadil and papaverine. Despite this, studies that consolidate the understanding of its pathophysiological process contribute to the discovery of new more efficient drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. In this sense, in the present work an extensive survey was carried out of the mechanisms already consolidated and the most recent ones related to the development of erectile dysfunction.

Uretroplastia término terminal y reconstrucción cavernosa temprana en ruptura bilateral de origen traumático / End-to-End Urethroplasty and Early Cavernous Reconstruction in Bilateral Rupture of Traumatic Origin / Uretroplastia término-terminal e reconstrução cavernosa precoce em rotura bilateral de origem traumática

Introducción. La fractura de pene es una emergencia urológica rara, se desconoce la incidencia real dado el subregistro causado por la reducida consulta de los pacientes, resultado del embarazoso contexto. En Estados Unidos alcanza un 38% donde la etiología de índole sexual predomina. En Colombia hay escasos reportes publicados. El diagnóstico de esta entidad es netamente clínico. El objetivo de este trabajo es reportar una evolución satisfactoria en términos de función miccional y eréctil en un paciente sometido a reconstrucción cavernosa y uretral temprana en rotura bilateral de origen traumático mediante una técnica quirúrgica poco convencional, de acuerdo con lo hallado en la literatura. Presentación del caso. Paciente masculino de 30 años, previamente sano, quien consultó al servicio de urgencias por uretrorragia, edema y dolor peneano secundario a trauma contuso del mismo durante relación sexual. El reporte ecográfico mostró disrupción en túnica albugínea del cuerpo esponjoso, hematoma y aparente transección uretral; se realizó exploración quirúrgica 6 horas después, con evidencia de fractura de cuerpos cavernosos, laceración del 40% de la circunferencia, transección completa de la uretra y cuerpo esponjoso. Se realizó rafia de cuerpos cavernosos y uretroplastia término terminal de uretra bulbar, con evolución clínica satisfactoria. Discusión. La reconstrucción quirúrgica en menos de 24 horas en fractura de pene disminuye significativamente la estancia hospitalaria y complicaciones precoces; asimismo, desciende el riesgo de disfunción eréctil, erecciones dolorosas y problemas miccionales. No hay publicaciones que comparen resultados a largo plazo entre los dos abordajes quirúrgicos. Conclusiones. La fractura de pene es una patología poco frecuente con diagnóstico clínico, la cual debe manejarse de manera temprana por cualquier urólogo y, en caso de ser posible, con experiencia reconstructiva y excelentes resultados en la función sexual y miccional.

Introduction. Penile fracture is a rare urological emergency, the real incidence is unknown given the underreporting caused by the reduced consultation of patients, resulting from the embarrassing context. In the United States it reaches 38%, where sexual etiology predominates. In Colombia there are few published reports. The diagnosis of this entity is purely clinical. The aim of this work is to report a satisfactory evolution in terms of voiding and erectile function in a patient who underwent early cavernous and urethral reconstruction in bilateral rupture of traumatic origin by means of an unconventional surgical technique, in accordance with what has been found in the literature. Case Presentation. A 30-year-old male patient, previously healthy, consulted the emergency department for urethrorrhagia, edema and penile pain secondary to blunt trauma to the penis during sexual intercourse. The ultrasound report showed disruption in the tunica albuginea of the corpus spongiosum, hematoma and apparent urethral transection; surgical exploration was performed 6 hours later, with evidence of fracture of the corpora cavernosa, laceration of 40% of the circumference, complete transection of the urethra and corpus spongiosum. Sutures to the corpora cavernosa and end-to-end urethroplasty of the bulbar urethra were performed, with satisfactory clinical evolution. Discussion. Surgical reconstruction in less than 24 hours in penile fractures significantly reduces hospital stay and early complications; it also reduces the risk of erectile dysfunction, painful erections and voiding problems. There are no publications comparing long-term results between the two surgical approaches. Conclusions. Penile fracture is a rare pathology with clinical diagnosis, which should be managed early by any urologist and, if possible, with reconstructive experience and excellent results in sexual and voiding function.

Introdução. A fratura peniana é uma emergência urológica rara, a real incidência é desconhecida dada a subnotificação causada pela reduzida consulta de pacientes, resultado do contexto constrangedor. Nos Estados Unidos chega a 38% onde predomina a etiologia de natureza sexual. Na Colômbia há poucos relatórios publicados. O diagnóstico desta entidade é puramente clínico. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar uma evolução satisfatória da função miccional e erétil em um paciente submetido à reconstrução cavernosa e uretral precoce em ruptura bilateral de origem traumática por meio de técnica cirúrgica não convencional, de acordo com o que foi encontrado na literatura. Apresentação do caso. Paciente do sexo masculino, 30 anos, previamente saudável, procurou o pronto-socorro por uretrorragia, edema e dor peniana secundária a trauma contuso durante a relação sexual. O relatório do ultrassom mostrou ruptura na túnica albugínea do corpo esponjoso, hematoma e transecção uretral aparente; a exploração cirúrgica foi realizada 6 horas depois, com evidência de fratura dos corpos cavernosos, laceração de 40% da circunferência, transecção completa da uretra e corpo esponjoso. Foram realizadas ráfia dos corpos cavernosos e uretroplastia término-terminal da uretra bulbar, com evolução clínica satisfatória. Discussão. A reconstrução cirúrgica em menos de 24 horas nas fraturas penianas reduz significativamente o tempo de internação e as complicações precoces. Da mesma forma, diminui o risco de disfunção erétil, ereções dolorosas e problemas de micção. Não há publicações comparando os resultados a longo prazo entre as duas abordagens cirúrgicas. Conclusões. A fratura peniana é uma patologia rara com diagnóstico clínico, que deve ser tratada precocemente por qualquer urologista e, se possível, com experiência reconstrutiva e excelentes resultados na função sexual e miccional.

Role of testosterone to estradiol ratio in predicting the efficacy of recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin and testosterone treatment in male hypogonadism.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the role of testosterone to estradiol ratio in predicting the effectiveness of human chorionic gonadotropin and testosterone treatments in male hypogonadism. METHODS: Thirty-six male patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were included in the study. Seventeen (47.2%) patients received weekly recombinant human choriogonadotropin alpha (hCG) treatment (group-1) and 19 (52.8%) received testosterone replacement therapy (T treatment) every 21 days (group-2). Under these treatments, adequate frequency of morning erection (≥3/week), testosterone to estradiol ratio (T/E), and testicular volume changes were analyzed. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 28.5 ± 8.7 years. When the frequency of morning erection (≥3/week) was specified as adequate, the cut-off value for effective T/E ratio was found to be 12.0 (sensitivity 93.8%, specificity 90.0%). There was no significant difference between the treatment groups in terms of total testosterone levels, T/E ratio, or frequency of morning erections (≥3/week) (p > 0.05). However, there was a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of median left-right testicular volume in favor of group-1 (p < 0,05). CONCLUSION: In patients with hypogonadism who are under treatment, elevated estradiol-induced erectile dysfunction symptoms may persist even if serum testosterone levels are normal. Testosterone to estradiol ratio can be used as a predictive value in the effective treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with hCG and T.

Role of testosterone to estradiol ratio in predicting the efficacy of recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin and testosterone treatment in male hypogonadism

ABSTRACT Objective: We aimed to investigate the role of testosterone to estradiol ratio in predicting the effectiveness of human chorionic gonadotropin and testosterone treatments in male hypogonadism. Materials and methods: Thirty-six male patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were included in the study. Seventeen (47.2%) patients received weekly recombinant human choriogonadotropin alpha (hCG) treatment (group-1) and 19 (52.8%) received testosterone replacement therapy (T treatment) every 21 days (group-2). Under these treatments, adequate frequency of morning erection (≥3/week), testosterone to estradiol ratio (T/E), and testicular volume changes were analyzed. Results: The mean age of the patients was 28.5 ± 8.7 years. When the frequency of morning erection (≥3/week) was specified as adequate, the cut-off value for effective T/E ratio was found to be 12.0 (sensitivity 93.8%, specificity 90.0%). There was no significant difference between the treatment groups in terms of total testosterone levels, T/E ratio, or frequency of morning erections (≥3/week) (p > 0.05). However, there was a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of median left-right testicular volume in favor of group-1 (p < 0,05). Conclusion: In patients with hypogonadism who are under treatment, elevated estradiol-induced erectile dysfunction symptoms may persist even if serum testosterone levels are normal. Testosterone to estradiol ratio can be used as a predictive value in the effective treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with hCG and T.

Lessons learned after 20 years' experience with penile fracture

ABSTRACT Objective: To report our experience over the past 20 years in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of penile fracture (PF). Materials and methods: Between January 1997 and January 2017, patients with clinical diagnosis of PF were admitted to our facility and retrospectively assessed. Medical records were reviewed for clinical presentation, etiology and operative findings. Postoperative complications, sexual and urinary function were evaluated. Results: Sexual trauma was the main etiological factor, responsible for 255 cases (88.5%): 110 (43.1%) occurred with the "doggy style" position, 103 (40.3%) with "man on top" position, 31 (12.1%) with the "woman on top" position and 11 (4.3%) in other sexual positions. The most common findings in the clinical presentation were hematoma, in all cases and detumescence in 238 (82.6%). Unilateral corpus cavernosum injuries were found in 199 (69%) patients and bilateral in 89 (31%) patients. Urethral injuries were observed in 54 (18.7%) cases. Nine (14.7%) patients developed erectile dysfunction and eight (13.1%) had penile curvature. Only two (3.7%) patients had complications after urethral reconstruction. Conclusions: PF has typical clinical presentation and no need for additional tests in most cases. Hematoma and immediate penile detumescence are the most common clinical findings. Sexual activity was the most common cause. The 'doggy style' and 'man-on-top' was the most common positions and generally associated with more severe lesions. Concomitant urethral injury should be considered in cases of highenergy trauma. Surgical reconstruction produces satisfactory results, however, it can lead to complications, such as erectile dysfunction and penile curvature.

Lessons learned after 20 years' experience with penile fracture.

OBJECTIVE: To report our experience over the past 20 years in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of penile fracture (PF). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 1997 and January 2017, patients with clinical diagnosis of PF were admitted to our facility and retrospectively assessed. Medical records were reviewed for clinical presentation, etiology and operative findings. Postoperative complications, sexual and urinary function were evaluated. RESULTS: Sexual trauma was the main etiological factor, responsible for 255 cases (88.5%): 110 (43.1%) occurred with the "doggy style" position, 103 (40.3%) with "man on top" position, 31 (12.1%) with the "woman on top" position and 11 (4.3%) in other sexual positions. The most common findings in the clinical presentation were hematoma, in all cases and detumescence in 238 (82.6%). Unilateral corpus cavernosum injuries were found in 199 (69%) patients and bilateral in 89 (31%) patients. Urethral injuries were observed in 54 (18.7%) cases. Nine (14.7%) patients developed erectile dysfunction and eight (13.1%) had penile curvature. Only two (3.7%) patients had complications after urethral reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: PF has typical clinical presentation and no need for additional tests in most cases. Hematoma and immediate penile detumescence are the most common clinical findings. Sexual activity was the most common cause. The 'doggy style' and 'man-on-top' was the most common positions and generally associated with more severe lesions. Concomitant urethral injury should be considered in cases of high-energy trauma. Surgical reconstruction produces satisfactory results, however, it can lead to complications, such as erectile dysfunction and penile curvature.

Objective measurements of the penile angulation are significantly different than self-estimated magnitude among patients with penile curvature

ABSTRACT Introduction: The study was aimed to assess the presence of actual differences between the objective and the perceived magnitude of a curvature between patients affected by Peyronie's disease (PD) and congenital penile curvature (CPC). Materials and Methods: Wee analysed a cohort of 88 consecutive patients seeking medi- cal help for either CPC or PD. All patients were invited to provide a self-made drawing of their penis in erection in order to obtain self-provided description of the deformity. An objective measurement of the deformity was also performed drawing two intersecting lines through the center of the distal and proximal straight section of the penile shaft. Results: Our findings showed significant differences between patient self-estimation and the objective measurements of the penile angulation performed by trained experts, with only 32% of patients correctly assessing their own curvature. Overall, patients tended to overestimate (56%) their degree of curvature, but the results are different in patients with PD than those with CPC. In the 60 men (68%) who did not accurately assess their curvature, PD patients generally overestimated their curvature versus CPC patients (67% vs 16%). On the contrary CPC patients underestimated their curvature compared to PD (42% vs. 4%). Conclusion: In order to improve patients' satisfaction rates, the surgeon needs to take into consideration the patient's perception of the deformity when planning the type of surgical correction.

Objective measurements of the penile angulation are significantly different than self-estimated magnitude among patients with penile curvature.

INTRODUCTION: The study was aimed to assess the presence of actual differences between the objective and the perceived magnitude of a curvature between patients affected by Peyronie's disease (PD) and congenital penile curvature (CPC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Wee analysed a cohort of 88 consecutive patients seeking medical help for either CPC or PD. All patients were invited to provide a self-made drawing of their penis in erection in order to obtain self-provided description of the deformity. An objective measurement of the deformity was also performed drawing two intersecting lines through the center of the distal and proximal straight section of the penile shaft. RESULTS: Our findings showed significant differences between patient self-estimation and the objective measurements of the penile angulation performed by trained experts, with only 32% of patients correctly assessing their own curvature. Overall, patients tended to overestimate (56%) their degree of curvature, but the results are different in patients with PD than those with CPC. In the 60 men (68%) who did not accurately assess their curvature, PD patients generally overestimated their curvature versus CPC patients (67% vs 16%). On the contrary CPC patients underestimated their curvature compared to PD (42% vs. 4%). CONCLUSION: In order to improve patients' satisfaction rates, the surgeon needs to take into consideration the patient's perception of the deformity when planning the type of surgical correction.

Cambios en la erección en adultos mayores, su relación con la testosterona sérica y otros factores / Changes in older adult penile erection, its association with serum testosterone and other factors

Introducción: los cambios en la erección asociados al envejecimiento frecuentemente se asumen desde conceptos erróneos. Objetivo: describir los cambios en la erección en varones adultos mayores, y su relación con el grado de satisfacción con sus erecciones actuales, la testosterona sérica y otros factores.Métodos: estudio correlacional y transversal. Muestra probabilística de 510 varones adultos mayores de Plaza de la Revolución. Se empleó cuestionario autoadministrado y se determinó testosterona, se emplearon estadísticas descriptivas, prueba chi2 y regresión logística multivariable. Resultados: la edad promedio fue 70 años (rango 60-93). El 92,86 por ciento reconoció cambios en la erección con respecto a edades previas: erecciones matutinas (71,16 por ciento disminución/ausencia); en las relaciones sexuales (44,8 por ciento disminución, 14,29 por ciento ausencia, 3,17 por ciento aumento); y período refractario (55,02 por ciento aumento). No se demostró relación estadísticamente significativa entre los cambios y la testosterona sérica (p> 0,05). La disminución o ausencia de erección se relacionó positivamente con mayor edad, consumo de medicamentos y autopercepción de no buen estado psicológico, y negativamente con poco tiempo sin pareja (p< 0,05). No se asoció con: presencia de pareja, tiempo de relación, estado civil, escolaridad, ocupación, creencias religiosas, enfermedades, tabaquismo, consumo de alcohol, realización o no de ejercicios físicos, privacidad, actividades de socialización, tristeza, pérdida de autoestima, educación sexual, importancia que conceden a la sexualidad, o actitud hacia esta. Conclusiones: la erección cambia con el envejecimiento, predominantemente en sentido de disminución, pero no siempre ocurre pérdida. Los cambios son independientes de la testosterona sérica, y se relacionan con: mayor edad, consumo de medicamentos, autopercepción del estado psicológico como no bueno y tiempo sin pareja. La disminución/ausencia.. (AU)

Introduction: changes in penile erection associated to aging are frequently understood according to wrong concepts.Objective: to describe the changes in penile erection of older men and their association with the level of satisfaction with their current erections, serum testosterone and other factors. Methods: cross-sectional correlational study on a probabilistic sample of 510 older male adults from Plaza de la Revolucion municipality. A self-administered questionnaire was used, the level of testosterone was estimated and summary statistics, Chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression were used as methods.Results: the average age was 70 years (range of 60 to 93). In this group, 92.86 percent of participants admitted that they had experienced changes in penile erection in comparison to early ages; erections in the morning (71.16 percent reduction/ absence); sexual relations (44.8 percent reduction, 14.29 percent absence and 3.17 percent increase) and refractory period (55.02 percent increase). There was no statistically significant association between changes and serum testosterone (p>0.05). The reduction or absence of penile erection was positively associated with older age, drug consumption and self-perception of unsatisfactory psychological state and negatively associated with short period of time without a couple (p< 0.05). There was no association of penile erection with presence of a sexual partner, length of time of the relationship, marital status, schooling, occupation, religious beliefs, diseases, smoking, alcohol consumption, exercising or not, privacy, socializing activities, sadness, low self-esteem, sexual education, importance attached to sexuality or attitude towards it. Conclusions: erection changes with aging; mainly it lowers but not always disappears. There are serum testosterone-independent changes related to older age, drug consumption, self-perception of unsatisfactory psychological condition and length of time without a ...(AU)

Determinación médico legal de la capacidad eréctil / Legal medical determination of erectile capacity

Resumen:En este artículo se describe la anatomía del pene, la fisiología de la erección, y los factores de riesgo que inciden en una disfunción eréctil, así como una guía de abordaje médico forense que incluye una historia médico legal completa y una exploración física dirigida,con el fin de orientar al médico forense o residente en la elaboración y conclusión de las pericias para la determinación de la capacidad eréctil de un individuo por parte de la Autoridad Judicial en el contexto de delitos sexuales.

Abstract:This article describes penile anatomy, physiology of erection, and the risk factors affecting erectile, as well as a guide to forensic medical approach that includes a complete legal medical history and physical examination directed to guide the coroner or resident in the elaboration and conclusion of the skills of determination of erectile ability of an individual by the judicial authority in the context of sexua.l offenses.

Cambios en la erección en adultos mayores, su relación con la testosterona sérica y otros factores / Changes in older adult penile erection, its association with serum testosterone and other factors

Introducción: los cambios en la erección asociados al envejecimiento frecuentemente se asumen desde conceptos erróneos. Objetivo: describir los cambios en la erección en varones adultos mayores, y su relación con el grado de satisfacción con sus erecciones actuales, la testosterona sérica y otros factores. Métodos: estudio correlacional y transversal. Muestra probabilística de 510 varones adultos mayores de Plaza de la Revolución. Se empleó cuestionario autoadministrado y se determinó testosterona, se emplearon estadísticas descriptivas, prueba chi2 y regresión logística multivariable. Resultados: la edad promedio fue 70 años (rango 60-93). El 92,86 por ciento reconoció cambios en la erección con respecto a edades previas: erecciones matutinas (71,16 por ciento disminución/ ausencia); en las relaciones sexuales (44,8 por ciento disminución, 14,29 por ciento ausencia, 3,17 por ciento aumento); y período refractario (55,02 por ciento aumento). No se demostró relación estadísticamente significativa entre los cambios y la testosterona sérica (p> 0,05). La disminución o ausencia de erección se relacionó positivamente con mayor edad, consumo de medicamentos y autopercepción de no buen estado psicológico, y negativamente con poco tiempo sin pareja (p< 0,05). No se asoció con: presencia de pareja, tiempo de relación, estado civil, escolaridad, ocupación, creencias religiosas, enfermedades, tabaquismo, consumo de alcohol, realización o no de ejercicios físicos, privacidad, actividades de socialización, tristeza, pérdida de autoestima, educación sexual, importancia que conceden a la sexualidad, o actitud hacia esta. Conclusiones: la erección cambia con el envejecimiento, predominantemente en sentido de disminución, pero no siempre ocurre pérdida. Los cambios son independientes de la testosterona sérica, y se relacionan con: mayor edad, consumo de medicamentos, autopercepción del estado psicológico como no bueno y tiempo sin pareja. La disminución/ausencia se asocia a insatisfacción(AU)

Introduction: changes in penile erection associated to aging are frequently understood according to wrong concepts. Objective: to describe the changes in penile erection of older men and their association with the level of satisfaction with their current erections, serum testosterone and other factors. Methods: cross-sectional correlational study on a probabilistic sample of 510 older male adults from Plaza de la Revolucion municipality. A self-administered questionnaire was used, the level of testosterone was estimated and summary statistics, Chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression were used as methods. Results: the average age was 70 years (range of 60 to 93). In this group, 92.86 percent of participants admitted that they had experienced changes in penile erection in comparison to early ages; erections in the morning (71.16 percent reduction/absence); sexual relations (44.8 percent reduction, 14.29 percent absence and 3.17 percent increase) and refractory period (55.02 percent increase). There was no statistically significant association between changes and serum testosterone (p>0.05). The reduction or absence of penile erection was positively associated with older age, drug consumption and self-perception of unsatisfactory psychological state and negatively associated with short period of time without a couple (p< 0.05). There was no association of penile erection with presence of a sexual partner, length of time of the relationship, marital status, schooling, occupation, religious beliefs, diseases, smoking, alcohol consumption, exercising or not, privacy, socializing activities, sadness, low self-esteem, sexual education, importance attached to sexuality or attitude towards it. Conclusions: erection changes with aging; mainly it lowers but not always disappears. There are serum testosterone-independent changes related to older age, drug consumption, self-perception of unsatisfactory psychological condition and length of time without a couple. Reduction/absence of penile erection is associated to dissatisfaction(AU)

The effects of sildenafil after chronic L-NAME administration in male rat sexual behavior.

Ferraz MMD, Quintella SL, Parcial ALN, Ferraz MR. The effects of sildenafil citrate and L-NAME on male rat sexual behaviour. PHARMACOL BIOCHEM BEHAV. Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects up to 50% of men between 40 and 70years of age. Significant advances in the pharmacological treatment of ED occurred in recent years, most notably the introduction of the first oral selective phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor, sildenafil. This study investigated the effectiveness of chronic oral treatment with L-NAME in rats as an experimental model of erectile dysfunction to evaluate new pharmacological agents that affect the sexual response. The effects of chronic oral L-NAME treatment, separately or in combination with sildenafil, on the sexual behaviour of male rats were evaluated. Filtered water was used as a control. Acute administration of L-NAME did not alter the sexual response compared with control, but sildenafil administration facilitated sexual behaviour after acute and chronic administration. Chronic L-NAME treatment inhibited motivational and consummatory measures of male rat sexual behaviour. Sildenafil prevented the inhibitory effects of L-NAME. The present results confirm that chronic oral treatment with a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor may be a relevant peripheral ED model to evaluate the effects of drugs on erectile function of male rats.

Prenatal stress alters the developmental pattern of behavioral indices of sexual maturation and copulation in male rats.

Gestation and pre-puberty are critical periods during which several environmental factors can drastically affect the adequate development of subjects. Considering that stress is one of the most common factors to which subjects may be exposed during gestation, the present study evaluated the effects of prenatal stress on the behavioral indices of sexual maturation in male rats, including genital grooming (GG), preputial separation (PS), and spontaneous penile erections (SPE) during puberty, and on copulatory parameters during adulthood. Stress was exerted by immobilizing the female rats once per day for 2h from days 14-21 of pregnancy. The young rats born to the dams in the stressed group (SG) later presented a delayed occurrence of PS with a delayed onset and lower frequency and duration of GG compared to a control group (CG). Less than half of the subjects in SG presented SPE, and those that did showed delayed onset and lower frequency and duration. In adulthood, fewer subjects in SG showed sexual behavior responses (intromission and ejaculation), and their mount and intromission latencies on the first day they ejaculated were longer than those of the CG rats. Findings from this study provide additional evidence that stress caused by immobilization during the third period of pregnancy exerts a negative effect in the short-term (i.e., around puberty) by altering the typical development of GG and SPE and the occurrence of PS, while also demonstrating that this effect persists in the long-term, when it affects the performance of copulatory behavior in mature male rats.

Caracterización epidemiológica, diagnóstica y terapéutica de pacientes con priapismo / Epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutical characterization of patients with priapism

Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal de 32 pacientes con priapismo, atendidos en el Servicio de Urología del Hospital Provincial Docente Clinicoquirúrgico "Saturnino Lora Torres" de Santiago de Cuba, desde enero de 2008 hasta diciembre de 2014, a fin de caracterizarles desde los puntos de vista epidemiológico, diagnóstico y terapéutico. En la serie predominaron el grupo etario de 20-29 años, el color de piel negra y la etiología idiopática como la más frecuente. En 53,1 % de los pacientes no se determinó el tipo de priapismo y 46,9 % de ellos tenían más de 24 horas de evolución antes de recibir asistencia médica. De los que presentaron entre 12-24 horas solo 7,1 % recibió tratamiento quirúrgico. El tratamiento médico fue inefectivo en 76,5 % de los pacientes y 54,9 % de ellos presentó disfunción eréctil.

A descriptive and cross-sectional study of 32 patients with priapism, assisted at the Urology Service of the "Saturnino Lora Torres" Provincial Teaching Clinical Surgical Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, was carried out from January, 2008 to December, 2014, in order to characterize them from the epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutical points of view. The 20-29 age group and the black skin color predominated in the series, as well as and the idiopathic etiology as the most frequent one. In the 53.1% of the patients priapism type was not determined and 46.9% of them had more than 24 hours of clinical course before receiving medical assistance. Of those who arrived between 12-24 hours only 7.1% received surgical treatment. The medical treatment was not effective in 76.5% of the patients and 54.9% of them presented erectile dysfunction.

Un nuevo enfoque terapéutico para la disfunción eréctil: las ondas de choque de baja intensidad / A new therapeutic approach for erectile dysfunction: Low intensity shockwaves / Um novo enfoque terapêutico para a disfunção eréctil: as ondas de choque de baixa intensidade

La disfunción eréctil es la incapacidad de lograr o mantener una erección del pene para la penetración vaginal y el desempeño sexual satisfactorio; se la considera el segundo problema más frecuente de disfunción sexual en hombres, después de la eyaculación precoz, con una prevalencia aproximada del 30%. La mayoría de los casos de disfunción eréctil tienen origen orgánico, principalmente por enfermedades vasculares, pero también está asociada a factores psicológicos, neurológicos u hormonales, o a alteraciones estructurales. La terapia farmacológica con inhibidores de la 5-fosfodiesterasa ha tenido eficacia clínica, pero hay pacientes que no responden a ella. Por tal razón se recurrió a las ondas de choque de baja intensidad que mejoran la vascularización y el flujo sanguíneo del pene con lo que se logran erecciones que permiten mejorar la calidad de la vida sexual. En esta revisión se incluyen diferentes estudios que demuestran la efectividad de este tratamiento.

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or sustain a penile erection for vaginal penetration and satisfactory sexual performance. It is the second most frequent problem of sexual dysfunction in men, after premature ejaculation, with an approximate prevalence rate of 30%. Most cases of erectile dysfunction have an organic origin, mostly vascular diseases, but it is also associated with psychological, neurological, and hormonal factors, or with structural alterations of the penis. Therapy with 5-phosphodiesterase inhibitors has been clinically effective, but some patients do not respond to it. Lowintensity shock waves may improve penile vascularity and blood flow, leading to better erections, and improvement of the quality of sexual performance. In this review several studies are included that show the effectiveness of this treatment for erectile dysfunction.

A disfunção eréctil é a incapacidade de conseguir ou manter uma ereção do pénis para a penetração vaginal e o desempenho sexual satisfatório; se a considera o segundo problema mais frequente de disfunção sexual em homens, depois da ejaculação precoce, com uma prevalência aproximada de 30%. A maioria dos casos de disfunção eréctil têm origem orgânica, principalmente por doenças vasculares, mas também está associada a fatores psicológicos, neurológicos ou hormonais, ou a alterações estruturais. A terapia farmacológica com inibidores da 5-fosfodiesterasa teve eficácia clínica, mas há pacientes que não respondem a ela. Por tal razão se recorreu às ondas de choque de baixa intensidade que melhoram a vascularização e o fluxo sanguíneo do pénis com o que se conseguem ereções que permitem melhorar a qualidade da vida sexual. Nesta revisão se incluem diferentes estudos que demonstram a efetividade deste tratamento.

PnPP-19, a Synthetic and Nontoxic Peptide Designed from a Phoneutria nigriventer Toxin, Potentiates Erectile Function via NO/cGMP.

PURPOSE: We designed a peptide, PnPP-19, comprising the potential active core of the Phoneutria nigriventer native toxin PnTx2-6. We investigated its role on erectile function, and its toxicity and immunogenicity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Erectile function was evaluated by the intracavernous pressure-to-mean arterial pressure ratio during electrical field stimulation on rat pelvic ganglia. Cavernous strips were contracted with phenylephrine and relaxation was induced by electrical field stimulation with or without PnPP-19 (10(-8) M). Activity on sodium channels was evaluated by electrophysiological screening of transfected channels on Xenopus oocytes and dorsal root ganglion cells. Antibodies were detected by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in mice previously treated with the peptide. Histopathological studies were performed with mouse organs treated with different doses of PnPP-19. RESULTS: PnPP-19 was able to potentiate erection at 4 and 8 Hz in vivo and ex vivo. It showed no toxicity and low immunogenicity in mice, and did not affect sodium channels or rat hearts. PnPP-19 increased cyclic guanosine monophosphate levels at 8 Hz. This effect was inhibited by L-NAME (10(-4) M). Erectile function was partially inhibited by 7-nitroindazole (10(-5) M), a selective inhibitor of neuronal nitric oxide synthase. CONCLUSIONS: PnPP-19 potentiates erection in vivo and ex vivo via the nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway. It does not affect sodium channels or rat hearts and shows no toxicity and low immunogenicity. These findings make it a promising candidate as a novel drug in the therapy of erectile dysfunction.