Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2017 · DOI: 10.1038/s41394-017-0023-x · Published: October 4, 2017
Spinal cord injury (SCI) can disrupt the body's normal sexual responses, affecting sexual interest and satisfaction. The extent of these effects depends on the location and severity of the injury along the spinal cord. Specific areas of the spinal cord, particularly the T11-L2, S2-S4, and somatic centers, are crucial for sexual function. Injuries to these areas can lead to changes in genital arousal, erection (in males), lubrication (in females), ejaculation, and orgasm. The International Standards for the Assessment of Autonomic Function after SCI (ISAFSCI) helps evaluate autonomic functions affected by SCI, including sexual responses. By combining neurologic exams with reflex testing, clinicians can predict the likely impact of SCI on sexual function.
A thorough neurological clinical examination, including both somatic and autonomic function assessment, is crucial for predicting sexual function following SCI.
The ISAFSCI should be clarified to specifically document the impact of SCI on sexual responses, helping clinicians identify and address other potential sources of sexual dysfunction.
Treatment must be adapted according to whether the patient has an UMN or LMN syndrome.