Erectile Dysfunction Tests

How We Diagnose Erectile Dysfunction

At City of Hope, we diagnose ED by identifying reversible causes, discussing what treatments have been attempted previously and completing a thorough medical history and physical exam.  

In some cases, blood work may also be necessary to identify hormonal problems and any treatable conditions like hyperlipidemia, hypertension and diabetes. We will also review each patient’s medication list to make sure no prescriptions are impacting erectile function.

In rare cases, doctors may perform ultrasound testing of the penis to ensure that there is appropriate blood flow, occlusion of blood flow and retention of blood to maintain an erection.

We may also perform injection testing to see if there is normal response to medications that induce erections. This not only helps in diagnosis, but it also introduces treatment options for ED.