Sexual dysfunction in men with epilepsy – An observational case-control study

Abstract

Background

Epilepsy presents multifaceted challenges, including sexual dysfunction and psychiatric comorbidities in men. Understanding the interplay between epilepsy, antiseizure medications, hormonal alterations, and sexual dysfunction is crucial for tailored interventions and improved quality of life.

Methods

This case-control study enrolled 226 married men (150 MWE, 76 controls) from a tertiary care neurology hospital in Southern India. Demographic, clinical, and hormonal data were collected. Sexual dysfunction was assessed using the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) and the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT). Psychiatric symptoms were evaluated using the DASS-21 questionnaire.

Results

Nineteen percent of MWE exhibited significant sexual dysfunction. Median ASEX scores were significantly higher in polytherapy (15) compared with monotherapy (13) and controls (10), (p < 0.0001). The cut-off score for sexual dysfunction (>18) was present in 20 individuals in the polytherapy group, 8 in the monotherapy group and none in the control group (p < 0.0001). PEDT scores showed a similar pattern, with statistically significant differences between subgroups. Hormonal analysis revealed dysregulated LH and testosterone levels in MWE and were significantly more on pairwise comparisons in the polytherapy subgroup. Epilepsy duration, valproate usage, and presence of anxiety/depression were associated with sexual dysfunction on a multivariable regression model using the Akaike information criterion.

Conclusion

This study elucidates the complex relationship between epilepsy, medications, hormonal alterations, and sexual dysfunction in men. Valproate was found to be strongly associated with sexual dysfunction and hormonal imbalance. Further research is warranted to address study limitations and advance our understanding of sexual dysfunction in MWE.