Peyronie's Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
What is Peyronie's Disease?
Peyronie's disease is a condition found in men in which scar tissue in the penis causes it to bend, curve, or lose size. The scar tissue may be felt under the skin and can cause pain as it develops.
During an erection, the penis may bend up, down, or sideways depending on the scar's location. In some cases, the penis may have an indentation, giving it an hourglass shape.
Not all penile curvatures indicate Peyronie's disease; lifelong minor curves are normal and not necessarily a sign of the condition.
What are the Causes of Peyronie's Disease?
Peyronie's disease may result from genetic factors or injury to small blood vessels, often caused by persistent intercourse, sports trauma, accidents, or surgery. Improper healing can trap cells, forming scar tissue.
If scar tissue builds up, the affected area can't stretch during an erection, pulling the penis toward the scar and causing a bend.
Not all penile injuries lead to Peyronie's disease; some men are more predisposed due to risk factors, such as certain connective tissue disorders like Dupuytren's contracture, plantar fasciitis, or scleroderma.
What are the Symptoms of Peyronie's Disease?
Peyronie's disease symptoms can develop suddenly or over time. Common signs include:
Scar Tissue (Plaque):
Felt under the skin as flat lumps or bands of rigid tissue on the penis. The area may also be tender.
Penile Curvature:
The penis may curve upward, downward, or to the side during an erection, deviating from its usual straight form.
Pain:
Pain may occur with or without an erection.
Erection Problems (Erectile Dysfunction):
Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection often occurs, with erectile dysfunction sometimes preceding other symptoms.
For erectile dysfunction related to Peyronie's disease, medical treatments and personalised guidance may help improve symptoms.
Does Peyronie's Disease Cause Shortening of the Penis?
Yes, Peyronie's disease can lead to shortening of the penis during erections. Over time, the curvature and shortening may worsen, particularly during the first 6–12 months.
Pain Improvement: Pain during erections typically subsides within 1–2 years.
Persistent Changes: Scar tissue, shortening, and curvature usually remain, though, in rare cases, curvature and pain may improve without treatment.
How is Peyronie's disease diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will review your medical history and ask about symptoms, such as penis curvature, length loss, and erectile difficulties. They will also perform a physical exam to check for scarring and may examine your penis during an erection, possibly using an injection to induce it.
What tests are done to diagnose Peyronie's disease?
A penile duplex Doppler ultrasound may be used to locate scarring, check for calcium buildup, and assess blood flow in the penis. This helps determine the best treatment.
What are the Treatments for Peyronie's disease?
While there is no cure for Peyronie's disease, treatment options depend on symptom severity. If the curvature is mild and does not interfere with sexual activity, treatment may not be necessary.
Treatment Options
1. Medications
- Injectable Treatments:
- Xiaflex (FDA-approved): Breaks down collagen for penile curvatures over 30 degrees during erections.
- Verapamil: A blood pressure medication used to soften fibrous tissue.
- Interferon: Reduces fibrous tissue buildup.
2. Nonsurgical Treatments
- Shockwave Therapy: Such therapy can help promote tissue remodelling.
- Penile Traction Therapy: Devices like Restorex help reduce curvature and improve erectile function.
- Vacuum Devices: These devices may aid in straightening the penis and enhancing blood flow.
3. Surgery
For severe curvature or deformity of the pains, surgery is considered once plaques and curvature have stabilized. Surgical options may include:
- Plaque Removal or Incision: Repaired with grafts to restore shape.
- Penile Implants: For cases involving erectile dysfunction.
- Plication Surgery: Shortens the longer side of the penis to straighten it.
4. Lifestyle Changes
- Stop drug misuse.
- Exercise regularly.
- Quit smoking.
- Reduce alcohol consumption.
These lifestyle changes can help you lower the risk of erectile dysfunction associated with Peyronie's disease.
Do You Know?
Sexual dysfunction affects about 30-40% of men worldwide, with erectile dysfunction (ED) being the most common issue. Health conditions, medications, stress, and ageing can cause it. Fortunately, ED medicines and lifestyle changes can help improve sexual health.
Summary
Peyronie's disease can impact your sexual health and relationships. If you notice changes in the size or shape of your penis or other symptoms, consult a doctor promptly. So, Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to managing the condition effectively.
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If Peyronie's disease causes only a small, painless curve that doesn't affect intercourse, treatment may not be necessary.
No, Viagra has not been shown to improve the curvature or deformity caused by Peyronie's disease and is not recommended for its treatment.
Peyronie's disease causes a curved penis and may result in painful erections. While not dangerous, it can impact your quality of life.
It's best to seek treatment as soon as symptoms appear, though treatment is still possible at any stage. The more advanced the disease, the more intensive the treatment may be.
Verapamil cream has been studied for Peyronie's disease and may help reduce curvature and pain by affecting collagen and fibrous tissue production.
Gently massage the base of the penis in circular motions, applying pressure with your thumb and index finger, and gradually move toward the head of the penis while repeating the cycle.
