Overview
Diagnosis
To diagnose Peyronie disease, a healthcare professional will start by discussing your symptoms and medical history. This includes asking about the onset of symptoms, any pain during erections, changes in the shape of the penis, and difficulty with sexual activity.
A physical examination is performed to look for plaques or scar tissue under the skin of the penis. The doctor may measure the curvature and check for areas of thickening or hardening.
Tests that may be used include:
• Ultrasound. High-frequency sound waves can create images of the penis, helping to locate plaques and assess blood flow.
• Erectile function testing. Sometimes an injection of medication is used to induce an erection, allowing the doctor to better assess the degree of curvature and identify plaques.
Treatment
Treatment for Peyronie disease depends on the severity of symptoms, the degree of curvature, and the impact on sexual function. Some mild cases may improve without treatment.
Non-surgical treatments:
• Medications. Oral or injectable medications may help reduce plaque size or curvature. Examples include collagenase clostridium histolyticum injections that break down plaque.
• Mechanical devices. Penile traction therapy may help reduce curvature and preserve length over time.
• Pain management. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may relieve pain during erections.
Surgical treatments:
Surgery is usually considered for men with significant curvature or functional problems that do not improve with non-surgical therapy. Options include:
• Plication surgery. This involves shortening the side of the penis opposite the plaque to straighten the penis.
• Grafting procedures. The scar tissue is removed and replaced with a graft to reduce curvature.
• Penile implants. In men with Peyronie disease and erectile dysfunction, an inflatable or semi-rigid implant can straighten the penis and restore function.
Early diagnosis and management are important to minimize complications and improve quality of life. Regular follow-up with a healthcare professional is recommended to monitor the condition and evaluate treatment effectiveness.
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