QLIF-06. SEXUAL FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH PRIMARY BRAIN TUMORS (PBTs)

Abstract

To determine if sexual function, defined by sexual drive, arousal, performance, and satisfaction, is compromised by PBTs and associated treatment. PBT patients are at risk of sexual dysfunction given direct effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, physical limitations, as well as high rates of comorbid depression and fatigue. Few data exist on this subject. One published study of 32 diffuse low-grade glioma patients undergoing surgical resection demonstrated that 53% of patients experienced a postoperative sexual change (Surbeck et al, 2015). This is an IRB-approved cross-sectional analysis of adults with PBTs who were approached to complete a voluntary, anonymous survey, based on the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale, to evaluate the impact of their PBT and treatment on sexual function. Implications for quality of life were assessed. 56 PBT patients were approached, 31 completed the survey (55%). The study included 17 men and 14 women, median age 49. There were 6 patients with low grade tumors and 25 with high grade tumors. Two patients reported pre-existing sexual dysfunction. All patients had received treatment: 27 underwent surgical resection, 26 received radiotherapy, and 28 received chemotherapy. As compared to their sexual function prior to PBT diagnosis, 55% of patients reported a decrease in sex drive, 35% reported more difficulty becoming aroused, 42% reported more difficulty achieving orgasm, and 39% reported less sexual satisfaction. Ten patients (32%) noted that sexual function plays an important role in their quality of life (QOL). Sixty-eight percent conveyed that they would not want to discuss sexual function with their clinical team, but the remaining patients noted that they were unsure or would welcome the opportunity to discuss such issues. Sexual function is likely compromised in PBT patients and this reduces QOL. This study is on-going and the full results will be reported at the meeting.