Peyronie's Disease, which is referred to as curvature of the penis, is an abnormal bend in the penis that occurs during erection.

With Peyronie's Disease, fibrous scar tissue develops under the skin of the penis. The cause of this fibrous tissue is not known. However, fracture of the penis (injury during intercourse) can lead to this condition. Patients have a higher risk of this condition after surgery or radiation treatment for prostate cancer.

Peyronie's Disease is uncommon. It typically affects men ages 40 - 60 and older.

Symptoms

You may notice an abnormal hardening of the tissue below the skin, in one area along the shaft of the penis. During erection, there may be:

A bend in the penis, which usually begins at the area where you feel the scar tissue or hardening
Narrowing of the penis
Problems with penetration or pain during intercourse
Shortening of the penis

Diagnosis

Your Ohio State urologist can diagnose curvature of the penis with a physical examination. The hard plaques can be felt with or without an erection. During examination you may receive a penile injection of medication to cause an erection. You can also provide your doctor with a picture of the erect penis for evaluation.

An ultrasound may show the scar tissue in the penis.

Treatment

Some patients may not need treatment. The symptoms may improve over time or may not get worse. If your condition progresses to the point where intercourse is not possible, surgery may be done to correct the problem.