Symptoms
Plaque: Palpable lumps or hard bands under the skin of the penis.
Curvature: The penis bends upwards, downwards, or to the side during erection.
Pain: Penile pain, especially during erection. Pain typically subsides over time (6-18 months)
Shortening: The penis may appear shorter.
Erectile Dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
Indentation: The penis may have an hourglass appearance.
Causes
The exact cause isn't fully understood, but it's believed to be related to:
Injury: Repeated minor injury to the penis during sexual activity or accidents.
Genetics: A genetic predisposition may increase the risk.
Autoimmune Disorders: Some autoimmune conditions might be associated.
Age: More common in middle-aged men but can occur at any age.
Medicine Used
Oral Medications:
Pentoxifylline: To improve blood flow and reduce fibrosis.
Potassium para-aminobenzoate (Potaba): To reduce scar tissue.
Vitamin E: To reduce inflammation and scarring.
Colchicine: Anti-inflammatory drug
Topical Medications:
Verapamil: A calcium channel blocker, applied topically.
Injections:
Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (Xiaflex): Injected directly into the plaque to break it down.
Verapamil: Injected directly into the plaque.
Interferon: Injected directly into the plaque.
Surgery:
Plaque excision and grafting.
Penile implants.
Nesbit procedure or plication.
Is Communicable
No, Peyronie's disease is not communicable or contagious. It cannot be spread to another person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent Peyronie's disease, as the exact cause is unclear.
Being gentle during sexual activity may help reduce the risk of minor penile injuries.
If you notice any changes in your penis, consult a doctor promptly.
How long does an outbreak last?
Peyronie's disease isn't an "outbreak" situation. It has two phases:
Acute Phase: (6-18 months) Symptoms develop and worsen, including pain, curvature, and plaque formation.
Chronic Phase: (Can last indefinitely) The condition stabilizes, with less pain and the degree of curvature remains constant.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: A doctor will examine the penis, both in a flaccid and erect state (if possible), to assess the plaque and curvature.
Medical History: Discussing symptoms, sexual history, and any potential contributing factors.
Ultrasound: To visualize the plaque and measure blood flow.
X-rays: May be used to evaluate plaque calcification.
Penile Photography: Taking pictures of the erect penis to document the curvature.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline can vary, but a typical course involves:
Initial Phase: Pain and plaque formation, along with noticeable curvature.
Progression: Curvature worsens over several months. Pain might decrease during this time.
Stabilization: After 6-18 months, the condition typically stabilizes. The curvature remains relatively constant.
Important Considerations
Psychological Impact: Peyronie's disease can cause significant emotional distress, affecting self-esteem and relationships.
Erectile Dysfunction: It can contribute to erectile dysfunction, further impacting sexual function.
Treatment Timing: Treatment options vary based on the stage and severity of the disease. Consult with a urologist.
Spontaneous Improvement: Rarely, the condition may improve on its own, although this is uncommon.
Partner Support: Open communication with your partner is crucial for coping with the condition.