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Peyronie's disease, a condition of uncertain cause, is characterized by a plaque, or hard lump, that forms on the penis. Cases of Peyronie's disease range from mild to severe. Symptoms may develop slowly or appear overnight. The sexual problems resulting from this disease, can disrupt a couple's physical and emotional relationship and lead to lowered self-esteem for the man. In a small percentage of patients with the milder form of the disease, inflammation may resolve without causing significant pain or permanent bending.
The plaque itself is benign, or noncancerous. At times, pain, bending, and emotional distress prohibit sexual intercourse.
One study found Peyronie's disease occurring in 1 percent of men.
Men with Peyronie's disease usually seek medical attention because of painful erections and difficulty with intercourse. Experts usually recommend surgery only in long-term cases in which the disease is stabilized and the deformity prevents intercourse. Peyronie's disease has been treated with some success by surgery.
The two most common surgical methods are removal or expansion of the plaque followed by placement of a patch of skin or artificial material, and removal or pinching of tissue from the side of the penis opposite the plaque, which cancels out the bending effect.
The first method can involve partial loss of erectile function, especially rigidity.
The second method, known as the Nesbit procedure, causes a shortening of the erect penis. Some preliminary testing indicates the symptoms can be relieved by a ProExtender™ stretching device, but more research needs to be done.
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