Peyronie’s syndrome, also known as Peyronie’s disease or induratio penis plastica is a condition that affects approximately one in twenty men. The usual symptom is a curvature of the penis more severe than the normal amount of curvature that most men have from birth. It can be accompanied by pain, difficulty in sexual intercourse, and ultimately lead to sexual dysfunction and depression. The disease is brought on by an inflammation of the tunica albuginea, the sheath covering the corpora cavernosa, the spongy inner portions that fill with blood during an erection. The disease result in long cord-like plaques. Injury is thought to be a factor, but some patients do not recall any sort of previous penile injury. Sometimes, rather than curvature, or in addition to curvature, the penis evidences depressed areas.
The condition is usually autonomous, but thirty percent of men suffer additional connective tissue disorders, such as in their hands.
Treatment options are unclear. Some patients respond to drug therapies, some spontaneously heal, while others get worse. Splinting and exercises work for some, and surgery, if performed by a specialist in this condition, may be helpful.
