The Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, an effective process between heart and sexuality

SummaryErectile dysfunction (ED) is now considered as a marker of vascular diseases. Psychiatric disorders and psychosocial factors may increase ED. Therefore, the latest recommendations prescribe to look for these factors. There is definitely some evidence connecting psychosocial factors, ED and vascular diseases. However, the role of these factors and their relationship in the emergence of depressed mood and ED is still debatable. Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry contributes to an integrative and comprehensive health care approach for patients with cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry intervention takes place in both primary and secondary prevention. Consequently, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry is used to perform an in-depth assessment of the in-patient psychiatric status, in a dimensional approach or a categorical approach. Typical issues to consider during the interview might include: major psychiatric disorder, side effects of toxic and medical/surgical conditions or treatments, specific personality traits, psychological functioning. Then the consultation-liaison psychiatrist can supply appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic information to medical colleagues. However, these propositions highly depend on the somatic conditions and psychological functioning and coping strategies of the patient. We consider that there is a need for special expertise, provided by the consultation-liaison psychiatrist, in the management of complex problems involving psychological and physical issues. Thus, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry is a great medical speciality, which enables the medical and psychosocial approaches to improve bio-psychosocial outcomes of the patients. A multidisciplinary and collaborative approach is highly recommended for ED, a prototype of the case complexity. Integrating the sexuality theme in the care programs for patients with cardiovascular disease, for example therapeutic education could be very useful for the patients, as well as the promotion of the multidisciplinary works.