Psychiatry Research EG

Aim The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of erectile dysfunction (ED) among chronic hepatitis C male patients treated with pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin. Patients and methods The sample consisted of 85 male patients treated with pegylated interferon-α2a and ribavirin for 12 months, recruited from Tropical and Internal Medicine outpatients of Zagazig University Hospitals. ED was prospectively studied by International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire, depression was assessed by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and routine laboratory investigations in addition to serum total and free testosterone were evaluated before, during, and 6 months after treatment. Results Prevalence of ED among chronic hepatitis C male patients was 40% (34 patients). There was signifi cant deterioration of International Index of Erectile Function scores an d Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale with respect to basal values and a signifi cant decrease in total and free testosterone with gradual improvement toward the end of treatment period. Emotional state and physical profi les were the most signifi cant risk factors for sexual dysfunction. Conclusion ED is common amon g hepatitis C virus patients treated with pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin and it is multifactorial. Keywor ds : hepatitis C, male patients, pegylated interferon-α, ribavirin, sexual dysfunction