A distinctive curvature of the penis during erection, known as Peyronie’s disease, affects an estimated 3 to 9% of men. First described in the 18th century by French surgeon François Gigot de Lapeyronie, the condition can cause pain, deformity and a loss of rigidity, impacting quality of life for those affected. Understanding the causes and available treatments is crucial for men experiencing these symptoms.
François Gigot de Lapeyronie, who served as surgeon to King Louis XV, was the first to document the condition that now bears his name. The Lyon Center for Urology Bellecour Mermoz explains that the curvature is “most often dorsal, meaning upwards, but it is possible in other directions.”
“Although the deformation is the most frequent symptom, other symptoms may exist, including narrowing (constriction), penile pain, a lack of rigidity of all or part of the penis, and the palpation of nodules within it,” the center adds.
What causes Peyronie’s disease?
According to the Lyon Center for Urology Bellecour Mermoz, “the most likely cause is a minor trauma to the envelope of the cavernous bodies, with anarchic and inflammatory scarring, leading to an internal fibrous scar.”
The disease primarily affects men over the age of 50, suggesting age is a significant risk factor. Genetic predisposition, diabetes, and smoking can also contribute to the development or worsening of the condition.
How does it develop?
Peyronie’s disease develops gradually over several months, progressing through two phases. The initial phase involves pain and penile deformation, followed by a stabilization phase where the curvature becomes fixed and no longer evolves. The University Hospital of Nantes (CHU de Nantes) notes that pain typically subsides during this later stage.
How is it treated?
The CHU de Nantes emphasizes that “management of this pathology is complex and therefore requires referral to a specialized andrology consultation as soon as a diagnosis is suspected.”
Early intervention can involve medication, specifically vitamin and vasodilator treatments, to unhurried the progression of the curvature. Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy, which delivers shockwaves to the fibrous plaque to fragment it and reduce pain, may also be considered.
Can the penile deformation be reduced?
Traction therapy, applied when the penis is flaccid, can facilitate limit or reduce the angle of curvature. This therapy requires a specialized device.
Surgical treatments are an option depending on the severity of the curvature. The Nesbit procedure, used for moderate curves, “consists of shortening the part of the cavernous body located opposite the curvature in order to balance the length of the cavernous bodies and thus straighten the penis,” explains the CHU de Nantes. More complex curves or hourglass-shaped deformities may require incision and grafting.
