Sexual dysfunction in neurological disease

Abstract

Diseases of the nervous system at several levels may interfere with sexual function directly by altering one or more of the physical factors on which sexual activity is based, or indirectly by the effect of medication or treatment or by the psychic response of the patient or spouse to the disease. This discussion will be directed toward considering the effect of common lesions in various anatomic sites or specific categories of nervous disease on sexual function, with major attention to male impotence. Special techniques of examination may help the physician define sexual potential, guide counseling, plan patient and spouse education, and assist in patient rehabilitation.