Peyronie’s disease, also known as penile induration, occurs when fibrous plaque grows in the soft tissue of the penis. Peyronie’s disease may cause pain, hardened lesions, and an abnormal curving of the penis when erect. Narrowing or shortening of the penis and erectile dysfunction may also occur. Up to 5 percent of men in the United States are affected by the disorder, primarily those over age 40. Peyronie’s disease may make sexual intercourse difficult or painful. Men with Peyronie’s disease may exhibit depression, and they may withdraw from their sexual partners. The underlying cause of Peyronie’s disease may be injury or trauma to the penis through sexual activity, although the patient may be unaware of any injury. Medications called beta blockers, which are used to treat hypertension, may also cause Peyronie’s disease although this connection has not yet been proven.

Evaluation
A detailed history and physical examination are used by urologist David Shin, M.D., to diagnose Peyronie’s disease.

Treatments
Treatment options include:

• Vitamin E or POTABA medications
• A minimally invasive office treatment that consists of six injections of a calcium channel blocker called verapamil to break up the plaque in the penis. The injections are given every other week.
• A highly specialized corrective surgical procedure called a “Nesbit operation”
• Psychosocial counseling for those affected by depression