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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Peyronie's Disease: Treatment & Monitoring
      Category : Health Centers > Reproductive System

Peyronie's Disease

Peyronie's Disease | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Pictures and Images | Attribution


What are the treatments for the disease?

Because the cause of Peyronie's disease is still unknown, it is difficult to plan a treatment that works for everyone. There is no definite cure for Peyronie's disease. Peyronie's disease and all of its symptoms may lessen or disappear in some individuals. Because of this, many experts recommend that a man wait 1 to 2 years before having surgery.

If the bend in the penis is so severe that intercourse is impossible, surgery may be recommended. Surgery may also be offered to men with erectile dysfunction. The scarring plaque that causes the bend may need to be removed or cut to straighten the penis. This usually affects the quality of erections. A penile implant may be inserted to improve erections.

Several medical treatments have been effective in small studies of men with Peyronie's disease. However, there are no large controlled studies to support these treatments. Further research is needed on these therapies, which include the following:

  • injections of collagenase, an enzyme that attacks the fibrous tissue, into the plaque
  • injections of medicines designed to control high blood pressure, such as verapamil, into the plaque
  • injections of steroids into the plaque
  • iontophoresis, a procedure that uses a painless current of electricity to insert a medicine or other substances under the skin covering the plaque
  • paraaminobenzoate, a B vitamin derivative, taken orally
  • radiation therapy of the affected area
  • vitamin E taken orally
  • What are the side effects of the treatments?

    Paraaminobenzoate can cause loss of appetite, fever, or rash. Injections into the plaque may cause allergic reactions, infection, and further scarring. Surgery may cause bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia.

    What happens after treatment for the disease?

    If treatment is successful, the man will be able to have satisfying erections and sexual intercourse. Many times, however, the disease interferes with sexual function.

    How is the disease monitored?

    Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.


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    Peyronie's Disease: Prevention & Expectations

     

    Peyronie's Disease: Pictures and Images

    Author: Gary Kearney, MD
    Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 06/29/01









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    Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006