Comparison of sexual function in men with spondyloarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

Aim of the workTo evaluate sexual function in Tunisian men with spondyloarthritis (SpA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared to healthy controls. The association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and specific parameters of SpA and RA was also studied.Patients and methodsThe study included 37 SpA, 13 RA patients and 50 healthy age matched controls. Sexual function of patients and controls was evaluated by the International Index of Erectile Function-5. ED was considered if the score was <21. Pain during intercourse and sexual desire were also assessed.ResultsThe mean age of the SpA and RA patients and control were comparable (42.5 ± 11.4 years, 49.6 ± 12.8 years and 48.8 ± 13.9 years). The prevalence of ED in rheumatic disease patients (SpA and RA) was 80% versus 70% in controls. A significant difference was found in the severity of the ED between patients and control (p = 0.04) and between SpA and RA patients (p = 0.012). There was also a higher prevalence of pain during intercourse (p < 0.0001), lower intensity of sexual desire (p = 0.005) and more dissatisfaction in relation with the partner (p < 0.0001) in the RD patients. ED in SpA and RA patients was significantly associated with higher age (p = 0.001), marital status (p = 0.007), higher age of disease’s onset (p = 0.027), pain during intercourse (p = 0.05) and lower sexual desire (p < 0.0001). On regression analysis, only sexual desire was significantly associated with ED (p = 0.03).ConclusionThis work suggests that patients with SpA or RA have a more severe ED in comparison with healthy control. However, specific disease parameters were not linked to ED.