Peyronie's Disease

Peyronie's Disease: An In-Depth Guide

What is Peyronie's Disease?

Peyronie's Disease (PD) is a condition that causes the penis to curve or bend during an erection. It is caused by the formation of scar tissue, called plaques, in the tunica albuginea, the fibrous tissue that surrounds the erectile tissue of the penis.

The plaques can cause the penis to bend in one direction or another, or they can cause the penis to become shorter or narrower. PD can also cause pain, erectile dysfunction, and difficulty with intercourse.

What Causes Peyronie's Disease?

The exact cause of PD is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including injury to the penis, genetics, and autoimmune disorders.

Most cases of PD are thought to be caused by a minor injury to the penis during sexual activity. This injury can cause the tunica albuginea to become inflamed and thickened, which can lead to the formation of scar tissue.

Genetics may also play a role in PD. Some studies have shown that men who have a family history of the disease are more likely to develop it themselves.

What Are the Symptoms of Peyronie's Disease?

The most common symptom of PD is a curved or bent penis during an erection. Other symptoms can include:

• Pain during an erection
• Erectile dysfunction
• Difficulty with intercourse
• Penis shortening
• Penis narrowing

What Are the Treatments for Peyronie's Disease?

There is no cure for PD, but there are a number of treatments that can help to improve symptoms.

Treatment options for PD include:

• Medication
• Surgery
• Penile traction therapy
• Other therapies

What is the Prognosis for Peyronie's Disease?

The prognosis for PD varies depending on the severity of the condition. In most cases, PD does not cause any serious health problems. However, it can be a significant source of discomfort and embarrassment for men.

With treatment, many men with PD are able to improve their symptoms and live a normal life.

Resources for Peyronie's Disease

The following organizations can provide more information about PD:

• Peyronie's Disease Society: https://www.peyronies.org/
• National Institute of Health: https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/peyronies/conditioninfo/Pages/default.aspx