Pathophysiology of Erectile Dysfunction and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Flashcards
What is the definition of an Erectile Dysfunction?
Inability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual intercourse
What qualifies as ED?
3 months of failing to achieve erections
What co-morbidities can cause ED?
- Obesity
- Dyslipidemia
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Tobacco Use
What is the Corpora Cavernosa?
Two cylinders of erectile tissue (top of penis)
What is the Corpus Spongiosum?
Surrounds the urethra (bottom of penis) and expands to form the glands
What NT helps blood flow into the penis via vasodilation?
ACh
What are the steps to achieve an erection?
- Bloodflow increases and fills the copra sinusoids
- Those filled corpora then compress subtunical venules to decrease outflow of blood
What are the 2 possible pathways ACh facilitates erection?
- Improves NO production
- Increases cAMP
What is the primary pathway for an erection?
NO activated cGMP = decrease Ca2+ = relaxed muscle
What is the secondary pathway for an erection?
Increase cAMP = muscle relaxation
What is the MAIN NT for erections?
NO
What metabolizes cGMP?
Phosphodiesterase type 5 aka PDE 5 in the corpora cavernosa
Where do the spinal cord cholinergic nerves connect to for sexual stimulation?
Corpora Vasculature
What is the role of NE in erections?
Vasoconstrictor, = detumescence
Does testosterone help with ED?
NO, but it does help with libido
What are the 2 physiologic functions of testosterone?
Stimulate Libido and Increase Muscle Mass
What is the normal concentration of testosterone?
300-1100 ng/dL
Is testosterone a primary mediatory of erectile dysfunction?
NO
What is Secondary ED?
Patient has hypogonadism and decreased libido
What is Organic ED?
Etiology is vascular, neurologic, and/or hormonal
Main Cause