Assessment of sexual dysfunction in male patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis

Abstract

We evaluated sexual dysfunction in male patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) using the Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory (BMSFI). We assessed sexual dysfunction using the BMSFI in male patients with AS followed at the outpatient clinic and compared results with those in healthy controls. Depression status was measured by the Beck Depression Inventory in AS patient and control group. The Bath AS functional index was used to measure functional status, the Bath AS metrology index was used to measure joint mobility, and the Bath AS disease activity index was used to evaluate disease activity in AS cases. Compared to healthy controls patients with AS had significantly lower sexual drive, erection, problem assessment and overall satisfaction scores according to the BMSFI. Ejaculation scores were also lower but not statistically significant. According to the Beck Depression Inventory, AS patients had higher scores than healthy controls (14.9 +/- 9.4 and 10.3 +/- 11.8, P = 0.026, respectively). As for the relation between the BMSFI domains and BDI scores, relation was found only in the domains of problem assessment and overall satisfaction (P < 0.05). The incidence rate of sexual dysfunction is higher in patients with AS, when compared to the healthy people. In patients with AS, sexual dysfunction was associated with depression and limited joint mobility.