Peyronie's Disease

Approximately 1 in 100 men in the United States over the age of 18 have been diagnosed with Peyronie’s disease. However, based on studies of men who reported having symptoms of Peyronie’s disease, researchers estimate that the actual number of men who have Peyronie’s disease is more than 1 in 10.

You may be at higher risk of developing Peyronie’s disease if you engage in vigorous sexual or nonsexual activities that cause micro-injuries to the penis, have certain connective tissue and autoimmune disorders, have a family history of Peyronie’s disease, are older, have diabetes and erectile dysfunction, or have a history of prostate cancer treatment with surgery.

Complications of Peyronie’s disease may include the inability to have sexual intercourse due to penile curvature, erectile dysfunction, emotional distress, depression, or anxiety about sexual abilities or the appearance of the penis, stress in a relationship with a sexual partner, and problems fathering a child because intercourse is difficult.

The signs and symptoms of Peyronie’s disease may include hard lumps on one or more sides of the penis, pain during sexual intercourse or during an erection, a curve in the penis with or without an erection, changes in the shape of the penis, such as narrowing or shortening, and erectile dysfunction.

Medical experts do not know the exact cause of Peyronie’s disease but believe that it may be the result of acute or chronic injury to the penis or autoimmune disease.

Diagnosis of Peyronie’s disease is typically based on a physical exam, medical history, and possibly imaging tests. Dr. Geer may also perform tests to assess the degree of penile curvature and any associated erectile dysfunction.

For more information on Peyronie’s disease, please visit the National Institute of Health.