Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis

Erectile dysfunction is a condition in which men are unable to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. It is often accompanied by decreased libido and reduced morning erections. Without accurate early diagnosis, the condition may worsen psychological anxiety, affect relationships, and even indicate potential cardiovascular risks. Diagnosis primarily relies on medical history inquiry, physical examination, endocrine evaluation, and penile blood flow function testing.

Diagnostic Criteria for Erectile Dysfunction

1. Medical History Evaluation

Patients undergo detailed sexual history assessment, including erection duration, frequency, libido status, and sexual satisfaction. The presence of morning erections or normal masturbation function provides important clues for distinguishing psychogenic from organic causes.

2. Physical Examination

Doctors examine secondary sexual characteristics, genital structures, and prostate, while assessing abnormalities such as testicular atrophy or penile deformities, helping to determine if anatomical issues are the cause.

3. Endocrine Testing

Blood tests for testosterone, prolactin, and thyroid hormone levels help exclude hormone abnormalities causing sexual dysfunction. Low testosterone levels are commonly seen in elderly men or those with metabolic diseases.

4. Penile Blood Flow Assessment

Doppler ultrasound is used to measure penile arterial blood flow velocity and pressure index, serving as an important basis for diagnosing vascular ED. Results help determine whether arterial insufficiency or venous leakage is present.

5. Drug Injection Test

Medications such as alprostadil are injected to induce artificial erection, and the response is observed. If normal erection occurs after injection, erectile function is likely intact, and the problem may be psychogenic or neurogenic.

6. Psychological and Emotional Assessment

For psychogenic ED, evaluations of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues are conducted. Professional psychological assessments or questionnaires help clarify the impact of mental and emotional factors.

7. Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT) Test

This test evaluates physiological nocturnal erections. If nocturnal erections are normal but erections fail during sexual activity, psychogenic ED is likely.

8. Neurological Examination

For suspected neurogenic ED, tests such as pudendal nerve reflexes and electrophysiological studies may be performed to determine the presence of nerve conduction disorders or spinal cord issues.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction must be systematic, covering psychological, physiological, and endocrine aspects. Experts at United Life International Medical Center recommend that men with persistent erectile difficulties seek medical care early. Using modern diagnostic methods ensures accurate evaluation and provides a solid foundation for advanced treatments such as stem cell therapy.