Persistent genital arousal disorder. The case of a 35-year-old patient

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder is a relatively recently described and rarely diagnosed sexual dysfunction. In the study of its causes, the role of vascular and neurologic factors is raised. In this article an attempt has been made to conduct a comprehensive case conceptualization of a 35-year-old female patient with PGAD, taking into account the opportunity of interaction of biological and psychological factors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: An analysis has been made on the basis of diagnostic material including neuroimaging, gynecological and psychological examinations as well as data from medical history, observation and a resume written by the patient.

RESULTS: A number of overlapping factors that can constitute the etiology of a disorder as well as exacerbate its the symptoms have been identified in the patient. They are: generalized atrophy in the CNS, mixed features of personality disorders of cluster B with hysterical and conversion mechanism of exacerbations and abundant venous plexus in the labia majora.

CONCLUSIONS: The Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder and its symptomatic exacerbations can be complex as far as their causes are concerned and may require a broad diagnostic and therapeutic perspective. Interdisciplinary approach seems to have some potential in explaining individual mechanisms of the disorder.