Sexual dysfunction in Klinefelter's syndrome patients.

Abstract

Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality in men with infertility and hypogonadism. Although its influence on fertility has been extensively investigated, very few studies assessed the sexual function of patients with KS. Our aim was to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with KS and investigate possible aetiological factors for reported findings. Medical records of 53 patients with KS were retrospectively reviewed and compared to 75 age-matched control subjects who were prospectively recruited. Sexual history was evaluated through utilisation of international index of erectile function-5 and Arabic index for premature ejaculation questionnaires. Sexual desire was reported subjectively by patients or controls. The incidence of erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation in patients with KS was 18.9% and 22.6% respectively. Compared to age-matched controls, patients with KS had significantly lower incidence of PE. However, there was no statistically significant difference between both groups regarding erectile function. Libido was significantly lower in patients with KS than normal controls (54.7% vs. 17.3%, p=0.001). Klinefelter's syndrome is a condition that has a variable presentation. Despite having a higher likelihood of reduced sexual desire, patients may have normal erectile function comparable to age-matched individuals. They tend to have a lower incidence of premature ejaculation.