Peyronie's Disease
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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