Peyronie's Disease

Peyronie's disease affects the penis, part of the male genital system. (Read about "Genital Health - Male") The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) says that Peyronie's disease is characterized by a plaque, or hard lump that forms on the penis. The plaque develops on the upper or lower side of the penis in layers containing erectile tissue. It begins as a localized inflammation and can develop into a hardened scar. Cases of Peyronie's disease range from mild to severe. Symptoms may develop slowly or appear overnight.

The plaque itself is benign, or noncancerous. A plaque on the top of the shaft, which is the most common, causes the penis to bend upward; a plaque on the underside causes it to bend downward. In some cases, the plaque develops on both top and bottom, leading to indentation and shortening of the penis.

One study found Peyronie's disease occurring in 1 percent of men. Although the disease occurs mostly in middle-aged men, according to NIDDK, younger and older men can acquire it. Peyronie's disease is a condition of uncertain cause. Some researchers theorize that Peyronie's disease may be an autoimmune disorder. (Read about "The Immune System")

Because the course of Peyronie's disease is different in each patient and because some patients experience improvement without treatment, many medical experts suggest waiting 1 to 2 years or longer before attempting to correct it surgically. No strong evidence shows that any treatment other than surgery is effective. Experts usually recommend surgery, however, only in long-term cases in which the disease is stabilized and the deformity prevents intercourse.