Purpose: This study was done to assess the therapeutic effect of trazodone, an antidepressant agent in combination with sildenafil in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and decreased libido with normal serum testosterone level. Materials and Methods: From March 2005 to February 2006, 90 patients with ED complaining of decreased libido but whose serum testosterone level was within normal range were screened and enrolled in this study. The subjects were randomly treated by sildenafil only (group 1) and combination of sildenafil with trazodone (group 2). Patients received trazodone for at least 3 consecutive months, with daily doses starting at 50 mg. By intention-to-treat basis, the period of study was extended by 9 month. The intention-to-treat population included 39 sildenafil recipients and 35 sildenafil with trazodone recipients. The patients were asked to make up two questions, Q1: 'Did you experience improvement of erection after treatment?' and Q2: 'Did you experience improvement of libido after treatment?' and the change of International index of erectile function (IIEF) scores before and after the treatment were analyzed to assess the efficacy of treatment. Results: After 3 month treatment period, 70% of group 1 and group 2 answered 'yes' to Q1. Twenty seven percents of group 1 and 51% of group 2 answered 'yes' to Q2 and 20% of group 1 and 24% of group 2 answered 'yes' to both Q1 and Q2. In the intention-to-treat population, seventy-two percents of group 1 and 71% of group 2 answered 'yes' to Q1 and 28% of group 1 and 52% of group 2 answered 'yes' to Q2, 21% of group 1 and 26% of group 2 answered 'yes' to both Q1 and Q2. The change of IIEF scores before and after the treatment at 3 month and 9 month showed similar results. Both group 1 and group 2 showed significant improvement on scores of IIEF-5 and question 15 of IIEF after treatment (p<0.01). Meanwhile, only group 2 showed significant improvement on question 11 and 13 of IIEF after the treatment compared to group 1 (p<0.05). Two patients with high dose of trazodone complained of headache and drowsiness, but the symptoms disappeared by dose reduction. Conclusions: The combination therapy of trazodone with sildenafil increased libido and sexual satisfaction on patients with ED. Therefore, combination of trazodone with sildenafil might be considered in ED patients of decreased libido with normal serum testosterone level rather than sildenafil monotherapy.
Erectile Dysfunction ; Headache ; Humans ; Libido ; Male ; Piperazines ; Purines ; Reference Values ; Sleep Stages ; Sulfones ; Testosterone ; Trazodone ; Sildenafil Citrate

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a combination therapy with PDE5 inhibitor and testosterone replacement therapy in erectile dysfunction patients with testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS) after failure of PDE5 inhibitor mono-therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From March 2004 to July 2008, we evaluated 38 men (aged 38 to 69 years) who showed no response to PDE5 inhibitor therapy at the maximal recommended dose and they had testosterone levels less than 350ng/dL. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) was subsequently started with injectable testosterone undecanoate (NEBIDO(R)) or transdermal testosterone (Testogel(R)) in those patients. They received TRT during an 18-week period. After 14 weeks of TRT alone, PDE5 inhibitor was added to the TRT for an additional 4 weeks. After treatment, we evaluated the patients' sexual function, which was primarily based on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and the serum testosterone levels. RESULTS: All patients showed elevated serum testosterone levels after TRT (range: 212 to 662ng/dl, mean level: 362.19 ng/dl). At week 18, almost all of the men reported improved potency with combination therapy. After treatment, the mean total IIEF score and each sub-domain score were increased significantly compared to the baseline score. CONCLUSIONS: Testosterone replacement therapy combined with PDE5 inhibitor may be beneficial in improving the erectile function in testosterone deficiency syndrome patients with erectile dysfunction and who are unresponsive to PDE5 inhibitor alone.
Erectile Dysfunction ; Humans ; Hypogonadism ; Male ; Testosterone

PURPOSE: Oral testosterone undecanoate and transdermal testosterone gel are the testosterone formulas widely prescribed as hormonal replacement for tesosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS) in male patients. We evaluated the changes in serum testosterone level and the effects of these medicines. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The medical records of 162 patients who were diagnosed with TDS based on serum testosterone (<2.55 ng/ml) and prescribed testosterone formula were analyzed retrospectively. In the 111 patients of group I, tablets of oral testosterone undecanoate were initially given. If the follow up serum testosterone level had not increased enough, the dosages were increased up to 6 tablets. In the 51 patients of group II, one pack of transdermal testosterone gel (5 gm) daily without dosage adjustment was prescribed. Statistical analysis was done to identify any correlations among age, initial and final aging male's symptoms scale (AMS) score, initial, peak and final testosterone level, and duration of therapy. RESULTS: The mean ages of group I and II were 53.4+/-14.5 and 55.2+/-11.9, respectively (p>0.05). The initial and final testosterone levels of the two groups were not significantly different. However, the peak level during treatment was significantly higher in group II (p<0.05). The maximal increment of testosterone level was also significantly higher in group II. Initially, group II reached its peak testosterone level earlier than group I. The final serum levels were not significantly different after adjustment of dosages in group I. Testosterone replacement significantly decreased the AMS scales in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Both oral testosterone undecanoate and transdermal testosterone gel improved the serum testosterone level and symptom score for those with TDS. Transdermal testosterone gel may reach the peak serum testosterone level faster than oral testosterone undecanoate. Large prospective studies are required to assess the precise role of testosterone replacement therapy.
Aging ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Hypogonadism ; Male ; Medical Records ; Retrospective Studies ; Sorbitol ; Tablets ; Testosterone ; Tyramine ; Weights and Measures

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to investigate the effect of testosterone replacement treatment (TRT) in testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS) patients with metabolic syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the data of 200 men who were diagnosed with TDS and were undergoing TRT between August 2006 and August 2009. The 200 patients were divided into two groups (group 1: 71 patients with metabolic syndrome, group 2: 129 patients without metabolic syndrome) depending on metabolic syndrome, which was diagnosed according to the NCEP III criteria for Asians. Age, BMI (body mass index), waist circumference, serologic tests, AMS (the Aging Males' Symptoms scale), and IIEF (International Index of Erectile Function) were measured. RESULTS: In group 1, waist circumference and fasting glucose were significantly decreased; hemoglobin and total testosterone were increased; and the somatovegetative scale score of the AMS, the total AMS score, the erectile function score of the IIEF, the overall satisfaction score of the IIEF, and the total IIEF score were significantly improved after TRT. On the other hand, in group 2, waist circumference, BMI, total cholesterol, LDL, and fasting glucose were significantly decreased; hemoglobin and total testosterone were increased; and the 2 subscale scores of the AMS (psychologic and somatovegetative), the total AMS score, all subscale scores of the IIEF, and the total IIEF score were significantly improved after TRT. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the patients who had TDS with metabolic syndrome showed less improvement in AMS, IIEF, and serum variables. Therefore, the correction of metabolic syndrome, such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, should be considered during TRT.
Aging ; Asian Continental Ancestry Group ; Cholesterol, LDL ; Fasting ; Glucose ; Hand ; Hemoglobins ; Hormone Replacement Therapy ; Humans ; Hypertension ; Male ; Metabolic Syndrome X ; Obesity ; Serologic Tests ; Sorbitol ; Testosterone ; Tyramine ; Waist Circumference

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to investigate the effect of testosterone replacement treatment (TRT) in testosterone deficiency syndrome (TDS) patients with metabolic syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the data of 200 men who were diagnosed with TDS and were undergoing TRT between August 2006 and August 2009. The 200 patients were divided into two groups (group 1: 71 patients with metabolic syndrome, group 2: 129 patients without metabolic syndrome) depending on metabolic syndrome, which was diagnosed according to the NCEP III criteria for Asians. Age, BMI (body mass index), waist circumference, serologic tests, AMS (the Aging Males' Symptoms scale), and IIEF (International Index of Erectile Function) were measured. RESULTS: In group 1, waist circumference and fasting glucose were significantly decreased; hemoglobin and total testosterone were increased; and the somatovegetative scale score of the AMS, the total AMS score, the erectile function score of the IIEF, the overall satisfaction score of the IIEF, and the total IIEF score were significantly improved after TRT. On the other hand, in group 2, waist circumference, BMI, total cholesterol, LDL, and fasting glucose were significantly decreased; hemoglobin and total testosterone were increased; and the 2 subscale scores of the AMS (psychologic and somatovegetative), the total AMS score, all subscale scores of the IIEF, and the total IIEF score were significantly improved after TRT. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the patients who had TDS with metabolic syndrome showed less improvement in AMS, IIEF, and serum variables. Therefore, the correction of metabolic syndrome, such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, should be considered during TRT.
Aging ; Asian Continental Ancestry Group ; Cholesterol, LDL ; Fasting ; Glucose ; Hand ; Hemoglobins ; Hormone Replacement Therapy ; Humans ; Hypertension ; Male ; Metabolic Syndrome X ; Obesity ; Serologic Tests ; Sorbitol ; Testosterone ; Tyramine ; Waist Circumference

PURPOSE: This study was done to assess the effects of Transdermal testosterone gel(Testogel(R)) in late onset hypogonadism (LOH) patients and the correlation of AMS(aging males' symptoms) scale with serum testosterone concentration. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 73 medical records of LOH patients with low serum testosterone level (<3.5 ng/ml) who had been prescribed 1% Testogel(R) 5 g for over 3 months. The changes in serum testosterone level and AMS scores after application of Testogel(R) were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Mean age and duration of therapy were 56.0+/-11.1 years and 195.4+/-102.9 days, respectively. Compared to before treatment, Testogel(R) significantly increased the level of serum total testosterone, free testosterone, and bioavailable testosterone at 3, 6, and 9 months after treatment, and there were no significant differences in each of these parameters at the 3 time points. Testogel(R) also significantly improved AMS scores related to sexual dysfunction, somatic function, and psychological function at 3, 6, and 9 months. Among various parameters, serum total testosterone level was highly correlated with the AMS score (r=0.422, p<0.01). The more severe the complaints were before treatment, the greater the relative improvement. There were no severe systemic adverse reactions in any patients. CONCLUSIONS: Testogel(R) effectively elevated serum testosterone level and improved AMS scores. The improvement of AMS score was correlated with serum total testosterone concentration. Treatment was more effective in patients with more severe symptoms. Large prospective studies are needed to identify the long-term effects of Testogel(R) in LOH patients.
Aging* ; Humans ; Hypogonadism* ; Medical Records ; Testosterone*

PURPOSE: This study is to assess the pharmacologic effects of ethanol and its metabolite, acetaldehyde on potassium channels of the corpus cavernosal smooth muscle of the rabbit. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cavernosal strips from New Zealand white rabbits were harvested and pharmacophysiologic organ bath studies were executed. In equilibrium state after incubation, zaprinast (PDE5 inhibitor) induced relaxations were monitored in strips precontracted with phenylephrine (PE, 10(-4)M). The inhibitory effects of ethanol and acetaldehyde (2, 20, 40, 80 mmol) on zaprinast-induced relaxations were recorded. Pinacidil (K(ATP) channel opener) and phloretin (BK channel opener) were tested to reverse the inhibitory effects of ethanol and acetaldehyde on zaprinast-induced relaxations. RESULTS: Both ethanol and acetaldehyde inhibited the zaprinast-induced relaxations in a dosedependent manner (p<0.05). Both pinacidil and phloretin abolished the inhibition by both ethanol and acetaldehyde (p<0.05). Ethanol and acetaldehyde inhibits cavernosal relaxation, possibly through BK channels and K(ATP) channels. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that ethanol and its metabolite may affect the corpus cavernosal smooth muscle directly and lead to consequent erectile dysfunction. Furthermolecular and electrophysiological studies will help reveal the underlying mechanisms to which this process occurs.
Acetaldehyde ; Baths ; Erectile Dysfunction ; Ethanol ; Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels ; Male ; Muscle, Smooth ; Penis ; Phenylephrine ; Phloretin ; Pinacidil ; Potassium Channels ; Purinones ; Rabbits ; Relaxation

PURPOSE: To investigate the frequency of symptoms of late onset hypogonadism(LOH) and the intention for testosterone replacement therapy in Korean males in their 40s and above. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Korean males over age 40 were given a detailed explanation of LOH and the Korean version of Androgen Deficiency in Aging Male(ADAM) questionnaire(Saint Louis University) by e-mail. Positive for ADAM was defined as answering 'yes' to Q3 or Q7 which estimate the decline of sexual desire and erectile dysfunction or answering 'yes' to more than 3 other questions. The men's intention to take testosterone replacement therapy when recommended for symptoms of LOH was also queried. RESULTS: Among 38,502 people who opened the e-mail, 15.1%(5,795) of men responded to the survey. The largest fraction of respondents was males in their 40s(60%). The ADAM questionnaire revealed 64.6% of respondents as positive for LOH. More than 50% of respondents complained of decline in erection, endurance, or sexual desire. When asked about their intention to take testosterone replacement therapy, 96% of those positive for LOH answered that they would accept the treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Although the response ratio was low, 96% of screened LOH men showed high interest in LOH and a positive attitude toward testosterone replacement therapy. Urologists should thoroughly investigate the symptoms of LOH in men in their 40s and above and conduct testosterone replacement therapy as indicated, in order to improve the quality of life for Korean men.
Aging ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Electronic Mail ; Erectile Dysfunction ; Humans ; Hypogonadism* ; Intention ; Male* ; Quality of Life ; Testosterone

We describe an unusual case of extragastrointestinal stromal tumor (EGIST) presenting as a scrotal mass. A 71-year-old man presented with a gradually enlarging scrotal mass with a 20-year duration. Physical examination revealed a huge (as large as volleyball), round, nontender mass occupying the whole scrotum, which was resected completely. Clinical and radiological findings did not comply with any other primary site disease. Under histological examination, the tumor showed a spindle cell pattern with low cellularity, absence of necrotic and mitotic features. immunohistochemical analysis revealed the tumor reactive for CD117 and CD34, while negative for smooth muscle actin, desmin and S-100 protein. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of an EGIST involving the scrotum.
Aged ; Antigens, CD34 ; analysis ; Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors ; diagnosis ; Humans ; Immunohistochemistry ; Male ; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-kit ; analysis ; Scrotum ; pathology ; Sex Cord-Gonadal Stromal Tumors ; chemistry ; pathology

Purpose: Firefighting duties range from field roles such as suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services (EMS) to various administrative tasks. Despite these differences, they face uniform fitness standards in Korea. This study seeks to define distinct fitness needs for each duty and provide data for customized standards. Methods: One hundred seventy-six Korean male firefighters participated, categorized into suppression (n=76), rescue (n=22), administrative (n=27), and EMS (n=51) roles. All underwent maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) tests for aerobic capacity, with body composition measured using bioelectrical impedance and height recorded with a stadiometer. Results: The VO2 max (mL/kg/min) among Korean male firefighters varied across different job duties: suppression (39.96±5.84), rescue (44.84±4.85), administration (40.27±7.01), and EMS (40.51±6.75). Rescue had the highest VO2 max, which was significantly higher (p=0.013). The body mass index (BMI, kg/m2 ) values were as follows: suppression (25.07±2.55), rescue (24.95±1.71), EMS (24.33±3.21), and administration (25.10±2.48). There was no statistically significant difference in BMI values (p=0.464). Conclusion This study evaluated the VO2 max and BMI of South Korean male firefighters according to their job duties. It found that 54.5% did not meet the recommended VO2 max standard of 42 mL/kg/min for their activities, and 77.5% had a BMI indicating overweight or higher. However, it is important to note that not every firefighting duty requires high fitness levels. The key is ensuring firefighters possess the fitness necessary for their specific roles to maintain safety and efficiency. The study aims to provide data for creating fitness management guidelines tailored to the diverse duties of firefighters.