Erectile dysfunction: Proposed definition and staging for early diagnosis

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is considered a forerunner of cardiovascular disease. Early diagnosis of ED is important for identifying silent cardiovascular illness and reducing morbidity and mortality. ED has to be diagnosed before it interferes with sexual function. Various aspects of ED, methods to assess ED, and different types of ED are briefly discussed in this article. The proposed definition and staging of ED help in early diagnosis and are expected to revolutionize the current concepts of diagnosis and management of ED.

Keywords: Erectile dysfunction; Rigidity of penis; Angle of erection; Vaginal penetration pressure; Post-ejaculatory refractory period; Self-reported erection score; Staging of erectile dysfunction; Transient erectile dysfunction

Core Tip: Early diagnosis of erectile dysfunction (ED) is important to identify and prevent cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The new proposed definition and staging system serve this purpose. Hope this will revolutionize current concepts in the diagnosis and management of ED.