Male sexual dysfunction refers to the incomplete or loss of sexual function or sexual feelings caused by a variety of reasons such as psychological and physical illnesses, and can be classified as altered sexual desire, erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory disorders according to clinical manifestations. A physical examination, hormone measurements and ultrasound are usually required.
Physical examination
The first step is to observe the patient’s appearance and check the development of the secondary sexual characteristics, followed by a thorough examination of the genitalia, most notably the penile area for ulcers and lumps, the volume, size and contour of the testicles bilaterally and the scrotum for lesions or lumps.
Hormone measurements
Plasma testosterone, oestradiol, prolactin and luteinising hormone are measured. If plasma luteinising hormone is increased and testosterone is decreased, the lesion is in the testes; if plasma luteinising hormone and testosterone are both decreased, prolactin is increased and the lesion is under the optic thalamus. Patients are advised not to have violent mood swings, such as anger or anxiety, exertion or insomnia, 1 to 2 days before the test to ensure accurate results.
Ultrasonography
Measure blood flow in the pelvis and thus determine if there is sufficient pressure and blood flow in the penis, if not then the penis cannot be erected.