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What is Peyronie’s Disease? The Basic Facts about Penile Curvature.
By Lawrence Hakim, MD
Francois de la Peyronie, surgeon to Louis XIV of France, first described this disorder in 1743.
Men with Peyronie’s disease (PD) generally seek medical attention for pain associated with a curved penis during erection. PD typically results from inflammation and scarring, often due to injuries during sex, affecting a particular part of the penis known as the tunica albuginea.
Facts, Symptoms, and Information:
? This condition is most commonly acquired after age 50, although PD can occur at any age in the adult male. A man can be born with a curved penis, though this is not Peyronie’s disease.
? Severity varies - only a minority of the men afflicted with this problem are unable to engage sexually. Through an effect on the erection mechanism it can reduce rigidity (hardness), but the bent erections do not always cause impotence.
? It is more common than originally thought, affecting somewhere between 3 to 10 men out of a hundred.
? In addition to producing a curved penis, Peyronie’s disease may change the shape of the erection in other ways: indentation, diameter reduction, or loss of length.
? Peyronie’s disease can have a strong psychological impact - especially in single men who are not in a well-established relationship.
? Some cases are mild, and do not require treatment. Most cases produce at least some degree of persistent curvature.
? A noticeable lump, or plaque within the curved penis is commonly detected. Contrary to prevalent anxieties, it is noncancerous, and unrelated to cholesterol – containing arterial plaque
? Peyronie’s disease can run in families, though most cases do not appear to be hereditary.
? Peyronie’s is not associated with serious internal disorders. 10 – 20% of men develop scarring of either the hands (Dupuytren’s contractures) or of the feet.
? There are effective medical treatment options that you can pursue, after evaluation by your urologist.
? The goal of therapy is to maintain sexual function. In some cases, education about what Peyronie’s disease is and reassurance is all that is required.
? Rarely, when penile deformity prevents intercourse, surgery is recommended.
Lawrence Hakim, MD is an Urologist currently practicing at the Cleveland Clinic in Weston, Florida. He specializes in male and female sexual dysfunction with over 20 years’ experience.
If you have more questions or seek to find out more about Peyronie’s Disease, please consult your doctor. Click Here to Book an Appointment for more information.