Reproductive functions in male patients with epilepsy

Introduction and Objective: Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological diseases. Hormonal changes and abnormalities in reproductive function may occur in patients with epilepsy. In this study, we aimed to investigate abnormalities in reproductive functions in male patients with epilepsy under antiepiletic treatment and the abnormalities in their children. Method: Fifty two male patients with epilepsy followed at Epilepsy Outpatient Clinic at Deparment of Neurology Cukurova University were included in this study. Medical history and completed neurological examination were performed in all patients. IIEF (International Index of Erectile Function) and Beck depression scale were filled out by each patient. Testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulated hormone (FSH), prolactin (PRL) and estrogen levels in serum were studied. Serum fasting blood glucose, liver function tests, renal function tests, sodium levels, thyroid function tests, B12 levels were also checked. EEG performed within last 6 months and cerebral imaging performed anytime during follow-up period were evaluated retrospectively. For statistical evaluation SPSS 20.0 program was used. Results: In our study, the prevalence of erectile dysfunction was 63.5% in male patients with epilepsy. 40,4 % of the patients developed erectile dysfunction after antiepileptic drug use. Patients on polytherapy were found to have higher risk for depression. In patients with depressive disorder, erectile dysfunction was prominent (r:-0,568). Moreover patients with intractable seizures more depressed (p:0,044). In patients with polytherapy estrogen levels were higher while luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were lower. As for the children of these patients, 7 had several abnormalities (epilepsy in 3, patent foramen ovale in 1, undervirilize male in 1, goitre in 1, congenital myotonia in 1). Conclusion: The possibility of congenital malformation and abnormalities in the children of male patients with epilepsy should not be overlooked. Patients and their relatives should be provided with necessary support and information after careful risk assessment. Key words: Epilepsy, hormone, malformation