Endothelial dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, and coronary heart disease: the pathophysiologic and clinical linkage

Abstract

Our rapidly expanding knowledge regarding the biology of the endothelial cell and the pathophysiology of coronary heart disease (CHD) and endothelial dysfunction indicates important common factors and overlapping clinical presentations. We are, in effect, presented with a new paradigm-that of varying vascular manifestations of disease linked to the functioning of endothelial cell lining. This article reviews these areas of advancement and addresses their clinical implications regarding erectile dysfunction and CHD, as well as the role of the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor sildenafil.