Eight out of sixteen subjects (50%) sufferred from a DSM-IV major depressive disorder (MDD) as diagnossed by MINI. BDI and BAI of subjects with MDD, as compared with those without the disorder are shown in Table 2 showing significant higher levels for those with MDD. All patients (100%) showed some degree of ED, with a mean score at erectile fucntion domain of 10.31 (+/-9.48) (Table 3)

our patients showed a low score also for orgasmic function, sexual desire and overall satisfaction domains, compared to general population

the levels of PREG, as well as of its further metabolites, PROG and DHP, were significantly decreased in CSF of PFS patients. On the contrary, the levels of DHEA and T were significantly increased

we reported a decrease in the levels of DHT and 17b-E, associated with an increase in the 3a-diol levels

at variance to what observed in CSF, the plasma levels of PREG were significantly increased. In addition, the levels of PROG and T metabolites, such as DHT, 3a-diol, and 17b-E, were unaffected in plasma of PFS patients. Furthermore, the levels of THP that were unaffected in CSF, showed a significant decreased in plasma. In agreement to what observed in CSF, the plasma levels of DHEA and T showed a significant increase and those of DHP a significant decrease

We also reported abnormal somatosensory evoked potential of the pudental nerve in PFS patients with severe ED, the first objective evidence of a neuropathy involving peripheral neurogenic control of erection. We have presented the first objective evidence in PFS patients of peripheral neuropathy of the pudental nerve, which is critical for normal neurogenic control of erection

It is important to highlight that as mentioned above, a signfiicant decrease in the levels of PROG was observed in the CSF of PFS patients

the effect of finasteride on neuroactive steroid levels do not only affect the levels of 5a-reduced metabolites of PROG and T (i.e., DHP and DHT respectively) and further metabolites (i.e. THP), but also PROG and T themselves, as well as their precursor (i.e. PREG, and DHEA)