Understanding peyronies disease - causes, symptoms, and treatment options

Peyronie’s Disease is a condition where scar tissue, called plaque, forms inside the penis. This can cause curvature, shortening, or discomfort during erections. Early recognition and specialist care are essential to preserve function and improve outcomes.

Causes of Peyronie’s Disease

The exact cause is not fully understood, but common contributing factors include:

• Microtrauma: Small injuries to the penis, often unnoticed, which lead to plaque formation
• Genetic predisposition: Some men are more susceptible to scar tissue development
• Connective tissue disorders: Conditions like Dupuytren’s contracture may increase risk
• Age-related changes: Men over 40 are more commonly affected

Common Symptoms

Peyronie’s Disease can present differently for each patient, but key signs include:

• Noticeable curvature of the penis during erection
• Shortening of penile length
• Pain or discomfort, especially during erection
• Lumps or plaque felt beneath the skin
• Erectile dysfunction in some cases

Early assessment by a specialist urologist is crucial for management and to prevent progression.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on severity, duration, and impact on quality of life:

1. Conservative / non-surgical options:
   
   • Oral medications (limited effectiveness)
   • Topical therapies
   • Penile traction devices
2.  
3. Minimally invasive options:
   
   • Collagenase injections to break down plaque
   • Verapamil or other targeted injections
4.  
5. Surgical options:
   
   • Plaque incision and grafting – for severe curvature or shortening
   • Plication surgery – for mild to moderate curvature
   • Penile implants – in cases with erectile dysfunction
6.  

You can explore plaque incision and grafting here:

👉 https://knowledgebase.moorgateandrology.co.uk/the-nesbit-procedure-for-peyronies-disease

And non-surgical options like penile traction here:

👉 https://knowledgebase.moorgateandrology.co.uk/post-op-care-instructions

Why Specialist Care Matters

• Reduces risk of further curvature
• Provides accurate diagnosis and monitoring
• Ensures safe application of injections or surgery
• Tailors recovery and follow-up to each patient

Next Steps

If you notice curvature, pain, or lumps in your penis, contact our Peyronie’s Disease specialists for an assessment. Early intervention offers the best outcomes.