In a patient experiencing erectile dysfunction, what is the likely condition if they possess normal nocturnal erections and libido?

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When a patient experiences erectile dysfunction but has normal nocturnal erections and a preserved libido, the clinical scenario suggests psychogenic erectile dysfunction. This condition often arises when psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, or relationship issues, impact a person's ability to maintain an erection during sexual activity, while physiological mechanisms still function properly during sleep, which is reflected in normal nocturnal erections.

The presence of normal nocturnal erections indicates that the physical capability for an erection is intact, pointing away from hormonal and neurological dysfunctions, which typically cause a complete absence of erections. Additionally, a normal libido suggests that the patient has not lost interest in sexual activity, further favoring a psychological rather than a physical cause.

Thus, the combination of these factors firmly establishes the likelihood of psychogenic erectile dysfunction as the most plausible diagnosis in this patient.

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