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The role of testosterone (T) replacement therapy (TRT) in men is still conflicting. In particular, safety concerns and cardiovascular (CV) risk related to TRT have not been completely clarified yet. Similarly, the clear beneficial effects of TRT are far to be established. To systematically and critically analyze the available literature providing evidence of the benefit-risk ratio derived from TRT in aging men. A comprehensive PubMed literature search was performed to collect all trials, either randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or observational studies, evaluating the effects of TRT on different outcomes. Whenever possible, data derived from RCTs were compared with those resulting from observational studies. In addition, a discussion of the available meta-analyses has been also provided. Data derived from RCT and observational studies clearly documented that TRT can improve erectile function and libido as well as other sexual activities in men with hypogonadism (total T < 12 nM). Conversely, the effect of TRT on other outcomes, including metabolic, mood, cognition, mobility, and bone, is more conflicting. When hypogonadism is correctly diagnosed and managed, no CV venous thromboembolism or prostate risk is observed. Before prescribing TRT, hypogonadism (total T < 12 nM) must be confirmed through an adequate biochemical evaluation. Potential contraindications should be ruled out, and an adequate follow-up after the prescription is mandatory. When correctly diagnosed and administered, TRT is safe, and it can improve several aspects of sexual function. However, its role in complicated vasculogenic erectile dysfunction is limited. Conversely, TRT is not recommended for weight reduction and metabolic improvement. Further well-powered studies are advisable to better clarify TRT for long-term CV risk and prostate safety in complicated patients as well as in those curatively treated for prostate cancer. TRT results in sexual function improvement when men with hypogonadism (total T < 12 nM) are considered. Positive data in other outcomes need to be confirmed. Corona G, Torres LO, Maggi M. Testosterone Therapy: What We Have Learned From Trials. J Sex Med 2020;17:447–460. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the common etiology of erectile dysfunction (ED) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which are highly prevalent and affects the couple's quality of life. The theories explaining the common aethiological factors between ED and LUTS, nitric oxide synthase/pathway, autonomic hyperactivity and metabolic syndrome effects on LUTS and ED, alpha 1 adrenoreceptors, rho-kinase activation, pelvic atherosclerosis and sex hormones, are also discussed.

The new Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak was initially reported in China and spread across the world between December 2019 and January 2020, reaching the status of pandemic in March 11, 2020.[1] In Brazil, the first case was reported on February 26, 2020, and within 1 month, the national government has declared a national state of emergency. On the other hand, public services have been mostly devoted to the fight against COVID-19, and many sexual medicine experts who are public employees have been allocated to work in the frontline or in regulation services. The investigation of potential sexual health consequences of the pandemic is surely an opportunity in the sexual medicine field, analyzing disease burden on sexual function and behavior. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction Sexual dysfunction is common in patients after radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer. Aim To provide the International Consultation for Sexual Medicine (ICSM) 2015 recommendations concerning prevention and management strategies for post-RP erectile function impairment in terms of preoperative patient characteristics and intraoperative factors that could influence erectile function recovery. Methods A literature search was performed using Google and PubMed databases for English-language original and review articles published up to August 2016. Main Outcome Measures Levels of evidence (LEs) and grades of recommendations (GRs) based on a thorough analysis of the literature and committee consensus. Results Nine recommendations are provided by the ICSM 2015 committee on sexual rehabilitation after RP. Recommendation 1 states that clinicians should discuss the occurrence of postsurgical erectile dysfunction (temporary or permanent) with every candidate for RP (expert opinion, clinical principle). Recommendation 2 states that validated instruments for assessing erectile function recovery such as the International Index of Erectile Function and Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite questionnaires are available to monitor EF recovery after RP (LE = 1, GR = A). Recommendation 3 states there is insufficient evidence that a specific surgical technique (open vs laparoscopic vs robot-assisted radical prostatectomy) promotes better results in postoperative EF recovery (LE = 2, GR = C). Recommendation 4 states that recognized predictors of EF recovery include but are not limited to younger age, preoperative EF, and bilateral nerve-sparing surgery (LE = 2, GR = B). Recommendation 5 states that patients should be informed about key elements of the pathophysiology of postoperative erectile dysfunction, such as nerve injury and cavernous venous leak (expert opinion, clinical principle). Conclusions This article discusses Recommendations 1 to 5 of the ICSM 2015 committee on sexual rehabilitation after RP. Salonia A, Adaikan G, Buvat J, et al. Sexual Rehabilitation After Treatment for Prostate Cancer—Part 1: Recommendations From the Fourth International Consultation for Sexual Medicine (ICSM 2015). J Sex Med 2017;14:285–296. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Sexual dysfunction is common in patients after radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer. Aim To provide the International Consultation for Sexual Medicine (ICSM) 2015 recommendations concerning management strategies for post-RP erectile function impairment and to analyze post-RP sexual dysfunction other than erectile dysfunction. Methods A literature search was performed using Google and PubMed database for English-language original and review articles published up to August 2016. Main Outcome Measures Levels of evidence (LEs) and grades of recommendations (GRs) are provided based on a thorough analysis of the literature and committee consensus. Results Nine recommendations are provided by the ICSM 2015 committee on sexual rehabilitation after RP. Recommendation 6 states that the recovery of postoperative erectile function can take several years (LE = 2, GR = C). Recommendation 7 states there are conflicting data as to whether penile rehabilitation with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors improves recovery of spontaneous erections (LE = 1, GR = A). Recommendation 8 states that the data are inadequate to support any specific regimen as optimal for penile rehabilitation (LE = 3, GR = C). Recommendation 9 states that men undergoing RP (any technique) are at risk of sexual changes other than erectile dysfunction, including decreased libido, changes in orgasm, anejaculation, Peyronie-like disease, and changes in penile size (LE = 2, GR = B). Conclusion This article discusses Recommendations 6 to 9 of the ICSM 2015 committee on sexual rehabilitation after RP. Salonia A, Adaikan G, Buvat J, et al. Sexual Rehabilitation After Treatment For Prostate Cancer–Part 2: Recommendations From the Fourth International Consultation for Sexual Medicine (ICSM 2015). J Sex Med 2017;14:297–315. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Testosterone deficiency (TD), also known as hypogonadism, is a condition affecting a substantial proportion of men as they age. The diagnosis and management of TD can be challenging and clinicians should be aware of the current literature on this condition. Aim To review the available literature concerning the diagnosis and management of TD and to provide clinically relevant recommendations from the Fourth International Consultation for Sexual Medicine (ICSM) meeting. Methods A literature search was performed using the PubMed database for English-language original and review articles published or e-published up to January 2016. Main Outcome Measures Levels of evidence (LoEs) and grades of recommendations are provided based on a thorough analysis of the literature and committee consensus. Results Recommendations were given for 12 categories of TD: definition, clinical diagnosis, routine measurement, screening questionnaires, laboratory diagnosis, threshold levels for the biochemical diagnosis of TD, prostate cancer, cardiovascular disease, fertility, testosterone (T) formulations, alternatives to T therapy, and adverse events and monitoring. A total of 42 recommendations were made: of these, 16 were unchanged from the Third ICSM and 26 new recommendations were made during this Fourth ICSM. Most of these recommendations were supported by LoEs 2 and 3. Several key new recommendations include the following: (i) the clinical manifestations of TD occur as a result of decreased serum androgen concentrations or activity, regardless of whether there is an identified underlying etiology [LoE = 1, Grade = A]; (ii) symptomatic men with total T levels lower than 12 nmol/L or 350 ng/dL should be treated with T therapy [LoE = 1, Grade = C]; (iii) a trial of T therapy in symptomatic men with total T levels higher than 12 nmol/L or 350 ng/dL can be considered based on clinical presentation [LoE = 3, Grade = C]; (iv) there is no compelling evidence that T treatment increases the risk of developing prostate cancer or that its use is associated with prostate cancer progression [LoE = 1, Grade = C]; and (v) the weight of evidence indicates that T therapy is not associated with increased cardiovascular risk [LoE = 2, Grade = B]. Conclusion TD is an important condition that can profoundly affect the sexual health of men. We provide guidance regarding its diagnosis and management. Men with TD who receive treatment often experience resolution or improvement in their sexual symptoms and non-sexual health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Treatment of erectile dysfunction is based on pharmacotherapy for most patients. Aim To review the current data on pharmacotherapy for erectile dysfunction based on efficacy, psychosocial outcomes, and safety outcomes. Methods A review of the literature was undertaken by the committee members. All related articles were critically analyzed and discussed. Main Outcome Measures Levels of evidence (LEs) and grades of recommendations (GRs) are provided based on a thorough analysis of the literature and committee consensus. Results Ten recommendations are provided. (i) Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are effective, safe, and well-tolerated therapies for the treatment of men with erectile dysfunction (LE = 1, GR = A). (ii) There are no significant differences in efficacy, safety, and tolerability among PDE5 inhibitors (LE = 1, GR = A). (iii) PDE5 inhibitors are first-line therapy for most men with erectile dysfunction who do not have a specific contraindication to their use (LE = 3, GR = C). (iv) Intracavernosal injection therapy with alprostadil is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for men with erectile dysfunction (LE = 1, GR = A). (v) Intracavernosal injection therapy with alprostadil should be offered to patients as second-line therapy for erectile dysfunction (LE = 3, GR = C). (vi) Intraurethral and topical alprostadil are effective and well-tolerated treatments for men with erectile dysfunction (LE = 1, GR = A). (vii) Intraurethral and topical alprostadil should be considered second-line therapy for erectile dysfunction if available (LE = 3, GR = C). (viii) Dose titration of PDE5 inhibitors to the maximum tolerated dose is strongly recommended because it increases efficacy and satisfaction from treatment (LE = 2, GR = A). (ix) Treatment selection and follow-up should address the psychosocial profile and the needs and expectations of a patient for his sexual life. Shared decision making with the patient (and his partner) is strongly recommended (LE = 2, GR = A). (x) Counterfeit medicines are potentially dangerous. It is strongly recommended that physicians educate their patients to avoid taking any medication from unauthorized sources (LE = 2, GR = A). The first seven recommendations are the same as those from the Third International Consultation for Sexual Medicine and the last three are new recommendations. Conclusion PDE5 inhibitors remain a first-line treatment option because of their excellent efficacy and safety profile. This class of drugs is continually developed with new molecules and new formulations. Intracavernosal injections continue to be an established treatment modality, and intraurethral and topical alprostadil provide an alternative, less invasive treatment option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction In 2014, the International Society for Sexual Medicine ( ISSM) convened a panel of experts to develop an evidence-based process of care for the diagnosis and management of testosterone deficiency ( TD) in adult men. The panel considered the definition, epidemiology, etiology, physiologic effects, diagnosis, assessment and treatment of TD. It also considered the treatment of TD in special populations and commented on contemporary controversies about testosterone replacement therapy, cardiovascular risk and prostate cancer. Aim The aim was to develop clearly worded, practical, evidenced-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of diagnosis and management of TD for clinicians without expertise in endocrinology, such as physicians in family medicine and general urology practice. Method A comprehensive literature review was performed, followed by a structured, 3-day panel meeting and 6-month panel consultation process using electronic communication. The final guideline was compiled from reports by individual panel members on areas reflecting their special expertise, and then agreed by all through an iterative process. Results This article contains the report of the ISSM TD Process of Care Committee. It offers a definition of TD and recommendations for assessment and treatment in different populations. Finally, best practice treatment recommendations are presented to guide clinicians, both familiar and unfamiliar with TD. Conclusion Development of a process of care is an evolutionary process that continually reviews data and incorporates the best new research. We expect that ongoing research will lead to new insights into the pathophysiology of TD, as well as new, efficacious and safe treatments. We recommend that this process of care be reevaluated and updated by the ISSM in 4 years. Dean JD, McMahon CG, Guay AT, Morgentaler A, Althof SE, Becher EF, Bivalacqua TJ, Burnett AL, Buvat J, El Meliegy A, Hellstrom WJG, Jannini EA, Maggi M, McCullough A, Torres LO, and Zitzmann M. The International Society for Sexual Medicine's process of care for the assessment and management of testosterone deficiency in adult men. J Sex Med 2015;12:1660-1686. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The International Society for Sexual Medicine ( ISSM) Ad Hoc Committee for the Definition of Premature Ejaculation developed the first evidence-based definition for lifelong premature ejaculation ( PE) in 2007 and concluded that there were insufficient published objective data at that time to develop a definition for acquired PE. Aim The aim of this article is to review and critique the current literature and develop a contemporary, evidence-based definition for acquired PE and/or a unified definition for both lifelong and acquired PE. Methods In April 2013, the ISSM convened a second Ad Hoc Committee for the Definition of Premature Ejaculation in Bangalore, India. The same evidence-based systematic approach to literature search, retrieval, and evaluation used by the original committee was adopted. Results The committee unanimously agreed that men with lifelong and acquired PE appear to share the dimensions of short ejaculatory latency, reduced or absent perceived ejaculatory control, and the presence of negative personal consequences. Men with acquired PE are older, have higher incidences of erectile dysfunction, comorbid disease, and cardiovascular risk factors, and have a longer intravaginal ejaculation latency time ( IELT) as compared with men with lifelong PE. A self-estimated or stopwatch IELT of 3 minutes was identified as a valid IELT cut-off for diagnosing acquired PE. On this basis, the committee agreed on a unified definition of both acquired and lifelong PE as a male sexual dysfunction characterized by (i) ejaculation that always or nearly always occurs prior to or within about 1 minute of vaginal penetration from the first sexual experience (lifelong PE) or a clinically significant and bothersome reduction in latency time, often to about 3 minutes or less (acquired PE); (ii) the inability to delay ejaculation on all or nearly all vaginal penetrations; and (iii) negative personal consequences, such as distress, bother, frustration, and/or the avoidance of sexual intimacy. Conclusion The ISSM unified definition of lifelong and acquired PE represents the first evidence-based definition for these conditions. This definition will enable researchers to design methodologically rigorous studies to improve our understanding of acquired PE. Serefoglu EC, McMahon CG, Waldinger MD, Althof SE, Shindel A, Adaikan G, Becher EF, Dean J, Giuliano F, Hellstrom WJG, Giraldi A, Glina S, Incrocci L, Jannini E, McCabe M, Parish S, Rowland D, Segraves RT, Sharlip I, and Torres LO. An evidence-based unified definition of lifelong and acquired premature ejaculation: Report of the second International Society for Sexual Medicine Ad Hoc Committee for the Definition of Premature Ejaculation. J Sex Med 2014;11:1423-1441. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction In 2009, the International Society for Sexual Medicine ( ISSM) convened a select panel of experts to develop an evidence-based set of guidelines for patients suffering from lifelong premature ejaculation ( PE). That document reviewed definitions, etiology, impact on the patient and partner, assessment, and pharmacological, psychological, and combined treatments. It concluded by recognizing the continually evolving nature of clinical research and recommended a subsequent guideline review and revision every fourth year. Consistent with that recommendation, the ISSM organized a second multidisciplinary panel of experts in April 2013, which met for 2 days in Bangalore, India. This manuscript updates the previous guidelines and reports on the recommendations of the panel of experts. Aim The aim of this study was to develop clearly worded, practical, evidenced-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of PE for family practice clinicians as well as sexual medicine experts. Method A comprehensive literature review was performed. Results This article contains the report of the second ISSM PE Guidelines Committee. It offers a new unified definition of PE and updates the previous treatment recommendations. Brief assessment procedures are delineated, and validated diagnostic and treatment questionnaires are reviewed. Finally, the best practices treatment recommendations are presented to guide clinicians, both familiar and unfamiliar with PE, in facilitating treatment of their patients. Conclusion Development of guidelines is an evolutionary process that continually reviews data and incorporates the best new research. We expect that ongoing research will lead to a more complete understanding of the pathophysiology as well as new efficacious and safe treatments for this sexual dysfunction. We again recommend that these guidelines be reevaluated and updated by the ISSM in 4 years. Althof SE, McMahon CG, Waldinger MD, Serefoglu EC, Shindel AW, Adaikan PG, Becher E, Dean J, Giuliano F, Hellstrom WJG, Giraldi A, Glina S, Incrocci L, Jannini E, McCabe M, Parish S, Rowland D, Segraves RT, Sharlip I, and Torres LO. An update of the International Society of Sexual Medicine's guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of premature ejaculation (PE). J Sex Med 2014;11:1392-1422. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction. Besides hypogonadism, other endocrine disorders have been associated with male sexual dysfunction (MSD). Aim. To review the role of the pituitary hormone prolactin (PRL), growth hormone (GH), thyroid hormones, and adrenal androgens in MSD. Methods. A systematic search of published evidence was performed using Medline (1969 to September 2011). Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine-Levels of Evidence (March 2009) was applied when possible. Main Outcome Measures. The most important evidence regarding the role played by PRL, GH, thyroid, and adrenal hormone was reviewed and discussed. Results. Only severe hyperprolactinemia (>35 ng/mL or 735 mU/L), often related to a pituitary tumor, has a negative impact on sexual function, impairing sexual desire, testosterone production, and, through the latter, erectile function due to a dual effect: mass effect and PRL-induced suppression on gonadotropin secretion. The latter is PRL-level dependent. Emerging evidence indicates that hyperthyroidism is associated with an increased risk of premature ejaculation and might also be associated with erectile dysfunction (ED), whereas hypothyroidism mainly affects sexual desire and impairs the ejaculatory reflex. However, the real incidence of thyroid dysfunction in subjects with sexual problems needs to be evaluated. Prevalence of ED and decreased libido increase in acromegalic patients; however, it is still a matter of debate whether GH excess (acromegaly) may create effects due to a direct overproduction of GH/insulin-like growth factor 1 or because of the pituitary mass effects on gonadotropic cells, resulting in hypogonadism. Finally, although dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate have been implicated in a broad range of biological derangements, controlled trials have shown that DHEA administration is not useful for improving male sexual function. Conclusions. While the association between hyperprolactinemia and hypoactive sexual desire is well defined, more studies are needed to completely understand the role of other hormones in regulating male sexual functioning. Maggi M, Buvat J, Corona G, Guay A, and Torres LO. Hormonal causes of male sexual dysfunctions and their management (hyperprolactinemia, thyroid disorders, GH disorders, and DHEA). J Sex Med 2013;10:661-677. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction. Testosterone (T) deficiency (TD) may significantly affect sexual function and multiple organ systems. Aim. To provide recommendations and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) based on best evidence for diagnosis and treatment of TD in men. Methods. Medical literature was reviewed by the Endocrine subcommittee of the ISSM Standards Committee, followed by extensive internal discussion over two years, then public presentation and discussion with other experts. Main Outcome Measure. Recommendations and SOPs based on grading of evidence-based medical literature and interactive discussion. Results. TD is the association of a low serum T with consistent symptoms or signs. T level tends to decline with age. T modulates sexual motivation and erection. It also plays a broader role in men's health. Recent studies have established associations between low T, male sexual dysfunctions and metabolic risk factors. Though association does not mean causation, low T is associated with reduced longevity, risk of fatal cardiovascular events, obesity, sarcopenia, mobility limitations, osteoporosis, frailty, cognitive impairment, depression, Sleep Apnea Syndrome, and other chronic diseases. The paper proposes a standardized process for diagnosis and treatment of TD, and updates the knowledge on T therapy (Tth) and prostate and cardiovascular safety. There is no compelling evidence that Tth causes prostate cancer or its progression in men without severe TD. Polycythemia is presently the only cardiovascular-related adverse-event significantly associated with Tth. But follow-up of controlled T trials is limited to 3 years. Conclusions. Men with sexual dysfunctions, and/or with visceral obesity and metabolic diseases should be screened for TD and treated. Young men with TD should also be treated. Benefits and risks of Tth should be carefully assessed in older men. Prospective, long-term, placebo-controlled, interventional studies are required before screening for TD in more conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, and considering correction of TD as preventive medicine. Buvat J, Maggi M, Guay A, and Torres LO. Testosterone deficiency in men: Systematic review and standard operating procedures for diagnosis and treatment. J Sex Med **;**:**-**. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Endocrine disorders may adversely affect men's sexual function. Aim. To provide recommendations based on best evidence for diagnosis and treatment of endocrine-related male sexual dysfunctions. Methods. The Endocrine Aspects of Male Sexual Dysfunctions Committee, including 11 members from eight countries and four continents, collaborated with the Endocrine subcommittee of the Standards Committee of the International Society for Sexual Medicine. Medical literature was reviewed in detail, followed by extensive internal committee discussion over 2 years, then public presentation and discussion with the other experts before finalizing the report. Main Outcome Measure. Recommendations based on grading of evidence-base medical literature and interactive discussion. Results. From animal studies, it is derived that testosterone modulates mechanisms involved in erectile machinery, including expression of enzymes that both initiate and terminate erection. In addition, testosterone is essential for sexual motivation. Whether these findings could be extrapolated to human erections is unclear. Testosterone plays a broad role in men's overall health. Recent studies have established strong associations between low testosterone and metabolic and cardiovascular imbalances. In some studies, low testosterone decreased longevity; however, longitudinal studies do not support the predictive value of low testosterone for further cardiovascular events. The article proposes a standardized process for diagnosis and treatment of endocrine-related male sexual dysfunctions, updating the knowledge on testosterone and prostate safety. There is no compelling evidence that testosterone treatment causes prostate cancer or its progression in men without severe testosterone deficiency (TD). The possible roles of prolactin and thyroid hormones are also examined. Conclusions. Men with erectile dysfunction, hypoactive sexual desire and retarded ejaculation, as well as those with visceral obesity and metabolic diseases, should be screened for TD and treated. Prospective interventional studies are required before screening for TD in more conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, and considering correction as preventive medicine as much data suggests. Buvat J, Maggi M, Gooren L, Guay AT, Kaufman J, Morgentaler A, Schulman C, Tan HM, Torres LO, Yassin A, and Zitzmann M. Endocrine aspects of male sexual dysfunctions. J Sex Med 2010;7:1627–1656. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]