Relationship between serum sex steroids and Aging Male Symptoms score and International Index of Erectile Function

Abstract

Objectives. To determine the relationship between the total and subscale scores of the Aging Male Symptoms (AMS) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires, age, and serum sex steroids levels. Methods. A total of 348 patients enrolled in the study answered the AMS and IIEF questionnaires. Hormonal analysis, including total testosterone, free testosterone (FT), estradiol (EA and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate (DHEA-S) measurement, were performed. The patients with a total AMS score of 29 were considered to have aging male symptoms and the patients with an I IEF score of less than 26 were considered to have sexual dysfunction. Results. Although DHEA-S levels were significantly lower and E-2 levels were greater in the men with aging male symptoms according to the AMS, the DHEA-S and FT levels were significantly lower in the men with sexual dysfunction, as determined by the IIEF score. Serum DHEA-S and FT levels and age correlated significantly with the IIEF scores. The total AMS score correlated significantly only with age. Although serum total testosterone, FT, and DHEA-S levels correlated significantly with the andrologic symptoms of AMS, the serum E-2 levels correlated with psychological symptoms of AMS., Conclusions. Although aging male symptoms and the effects of hormonal changes on these symptoms have been controversial, DHEA-S and E-2 might play some important roles in the symptoms of aging men.