Acupuncture for erectile dysfunction in a non-diabetic haemodialysis patient: a case report

Acupunct Med. 2011 Mar;29(1):58-60. doi: 10.1136/aim.2010.003632. Epub 2010 Dec 16.

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction (ED) significantly affects the quality of life in male haemodialysis patients. This study reports the observed effects of acupuncture for ED in a non-diabetic haemodialysis patient. A 43-year-old man undergoing haemodialysis received 12 sessions of manual acupuncture over 6 weeks and was observed for 6 months after the end of treatment. Total International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire scores of the patient were changed from 32 at baseline to 60 at post-treatment evaluation, which means there was a significant improvement of ED. All International Index of Erectile Function subscales also increased. This beneficial effect lasted up to 6 months after the end of treatment. No adverse events were observed. An interview revealed that the lowered self-esteem of the patient was restored with the improvement of ED following acupuncture. Further controlled studies are needed to determine whether acupuncture might be a feasible and useful treatment option for erectile dysfunction in haemodialysis patients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acupuncture Therapy / methods*
  • Adult
  • Erectile Dysfunction / etiology
  • Erectile Dysfunction / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / complications*
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / therapy
  • Male
  • Patient Satisfaction*
  • Penile Erection
  • Peritoneal Dialysis / adverse effects*
  • Quality of Life
  • Self Concept*
  • Treatment Outcome