What is organic erectile dysfunction?

Organic erectile dysfunction (ED), also called primary ED, is caused by a physical problem that affects the nerves, muscles, blood vessels, or other body structures that are involved in an erection.

Causes

Organic ED is most commonly caused by:

- Heart disease

- Diabetes

- High cholesterol

- Obesity

- Smoking

- Alcoholism

- Drug use

- Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis

- Prostate cancer treatment

- Radiation therapy

- Surgery, such as radical prostatectomy

Organic ED can also be caused by:

- Medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and beta-blockers

- Injuries, such as a pelvic fracture

- Chronic kidney disease

- Liver disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of organic ED can include:

- Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection

- Reduced size of the penis

- Curved penis

- Painful intercourse

- Lack of sexual desire

Diagnosis

Organic ED is diagnosed based on the patient's history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The doctor may order tests such as:

- Blood tests to check hormone levels and cholesterol levels

- Urine tests to check for diabetes

- Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound of the penis or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain or spine

Treatment

The treatment for organic ED depends on the cause. Treatment options include:

- Medications, such as phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors) and testosterone

- Injections, such as alprostadil and papaverine

- Vacuum erection devices

- Penile implants

- Surgery to correct a physical problem, such as a Peyronie's plaque or a stricture of the urethra

Outlook

The outlook for organic ED is generally good. Most men with organic ED are able to achieve satisfactory erections with treatment.