Peyronie’s Disease or Curvature of Penis

Curve in the penis during erecting is called peyronie’s disease. On either side of the penis a thickened layer of soft tissue or calcium deposit develops under the skin. It begins as a localized inflammation but can develop into a hardened scar. Although it is non cancerous but it is very painful, emotionally distressing, and makes intercourse difficult.

If the plaque is on the upper side of the penis it will cause upward bend and if it is on the under side then it will cause downward bend after erection. The symptoms that can be felt are scarring, thickening of the tissue, painful erection, size of the penis also decreases, and sometimes difficulty in erection is also found.

You can develop it suddenly or it may happen over the years. The reason of sudden peyronie’s disease could be injury or trauma to the penis, a tear or rupture of the blood vessels, internal bleeding, immune disorder, hereditary or side effects of certain medicines.

Most of the time, the plaque disappears on its own or with the help of some supplements like vitamin-E, verapamil or calcium channel blocker, enzymes that break down collagenase. The role of treatment is to reduce the pain and maintain sexual functions. Sometimes localized medication is also given through injections or using electrical currents.

Another method of treatment is removing the plaque surgically. But surgery can cause partial loss of erectile function. Damage to the tube that carries urine and seamen, excessive bleeding is also seen resulting in impotence. Due to the risk and complications involved surgery is recommended in very severe cases of peyronie’s and that also after waiting for one to two years.

Seeking medical attention early can help in cure. Your doctor can explain all the options and can help you decide what is best for you.