Comparison of the levels of the serotonin metabolite, 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid, in cerebrospinal fluid from patients with and without premature ejaculation

Introduction: Premature ejaculation (PE) is a significant problem as it can cause a loss of sexual self-confidence and a significant deterioration in quality of life. The frequency of PE varies between 9% and 27%. In the current study, we aimed to compare the levels of the serotonin metabolite 5HIAA (5 hydroxyindole acetic acid) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with and without PE according to IELT (intravaginal ejaculation latency time) in order to investigate the relationship of PE with CSF 5HIAA levels. Materials and methods: A total of 60 male patients were included in the study who were planning to undergo surgery under spinal anesthesia, 30 in the patient (PE) group (all of the included patients had an IELT of <1 min) and 30 in the control group (patients had an IELT of >1 min). Levels of CSF 5HIAA were measured. Results: There was a significant negative correlation between IELT and the 5HIAA variables in all patients (r=-0.322, p= 0.012). Although the average 5HIAA levels (nmol/L) were higher in the patient group (86.80 +/- 28.33) than in the control group (76.44 +/- 35.91), this difference was not significant (p= 0.22). Discussion: Results of the current study bring new and different perspectives to the explanation of PE pathophysiology. There is a need for more specific and genetic studies to determine the best treatment for this common disorder. (C) 2018 Asociacion Espanola de Andrologia, Medicina Sexual y Reproductiva. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U. All rights reserved.