Erectile dysfunction: a practical approach for primary care.

Erectile dysfunction has been poorly recognized and managed in the past, due to its taboo aspects and erroneous perceptions of its medical significance. With research, improved understanding has guided a practical approach to its diagnosis and treatment. In most presentations, erectile dysfunction has an organic etiology. Likely causes are often discerned from the clinical history and physical examination. Management may be a simple matter of addressing correctable risk factors, or a direct intervention may need to be pursued. For an individual patient, selection of the "ideal" treatment is based on an understanding of the extent of the problem and consideration of the patient's preferences.