Sexual dysfunctions in Parkinson's disease: Review

Sexual dysfunctions are frequently experienced by patients with neurological disorders representing one of the most demoralizing and disturbing factors of these pathological conditions, where either sexual desire or sexual function are involved. Among the various neurological disorders, Parkinson's disease has, until now, received little attention from neurologists, on account of the obstacles related to the evaluation of patient's sexuality. Objective. Aim of the study was to evaluate the main sexual problems (sexual dysfunctions and impaired quality of sexual life) in patients with Parkinson's disease, reviewing the scientific literature. Methods. Specific literature was collected by a systematic Medline review using "Parkinson and sexual dysfunctions". "Sexuality in Parkinson". "Sexual problems in Parkinson". "Sexual functions in patients with Parkinson's disease". Full text articles published in various journals were analysed and compared. Conclusions. Study of sexual problems, in Parkinsonian patients, has usually received little attention. According to the few surveys on the relationship between Parkinson's disease and sexual problems, it is evident that either neurodegenerative processes (which characterize Parkinson's disease) with the psychological consequences or the pharmacalogical treatment can determine sexual dysfunctions.