Understanding Peyronie's Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Peyronie's disease is a condition affecting men, characterized by the development of scar tissue inside the penis. This tissue, known as plaque, forms after injury or internal bleeding within the penile tissue. Factors such as Vitamin E deficiency, elevated serotonin levels, certain medications, or genetic predispositions may contribute to its development.

This condition often causes the penis to bend either upward or sideways, leading to discomfort and anxiety during intimacy.

Peyronie's primarily affects middle-aged men, with prevalence estimates between 1% and 8%.

Signs and Symptoms

Common indicators include:

• Pain during erection
• Pain during intercourse
• Curvature or bending of the penis
• Soft or weak erections
• Shortened penile length
• Difficulty in engaging in intercourse
• Psychological stress

Preventative Measures

To lower the risk of developing Peyronie's disease, consider the following lifestyle adjustments:

• Quit smoking
• Engage in regular exercise or yoga
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid non-prescribed drug use

Available Treatment Options

Treatment varies based on severity and symptoms. Mild cases with minimal discomfort may simply require observation, as some sponta­neous improvement may occur. If symptoms persist or worsen, other therapies are available.

Injections for Peyronie's Disease

Collagenase (Xiaflex): The only FDA-approved medication, used for moderate to severe penile curvature. It works by breaking down excess collagen in scar tissue, potentially reducing bend and plaques. Its effectiveness is still under study.

Verapamil: Used for high blood pressure, also injected into the scar tissue to inhibit collagen production, easing scar formation and associated pain. Research on its effectiveness in Peyronie's is ongoing.

Interferon: A protein therapy that dissolves fibrous tissue, reducing curvature and pain. It's been shown to be more effective among injection options.

Shockwave Therapy

Also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), this technique applies high-energy sound waves to calcified scar tissue, promoting healing. Typically, three to five sessions are recommended, each with thousands of shockwaves.

Surgical Interventions

Reserved for severe cases or persistent pain unrelieved by other methods. Surgery involves removing or modifying scar tissue, possibly lengthening the bent side, or implanting prosthetic devices to straighten the penis and restore function. Types include penile lengthening, grafting after scar removal, or device implantation.

Medications for Early-Stage Peyronie's Disease

• Vitamin E
• Tamoxifen
• Colchicine
• Carnitine
• Potassium aminobenzoate (Potaba)
• Sildenafil
• Tadalafil
• Pentoxifylline

Consult a healthcare provider promptly if symptoms appear or worsen. Proper diagnosis and management are essential for effective treatment.