January 2008

I am 21 years old, and have been having trouble with sex because of painful erections, and also lack of sensation in my penis. I do have slight curvature but nothing that prevents intercourse. However because of the pain and loss of sensation it has become difficult to have optimum sex with my partner. I have seen a urologist and at first he gave me levitra and that worked to help maintain erection, however the pain and loss of sensation was still presistent. I still lost an erection once, but regained it even on the levitra. Going back he suggested that I start using Transdermal Verapamil Gel 15 %, but it is extremely expensive and is not proven to have positive effects. I have also been a heavy smoker for about 6 years and supposedly am allergic to tobacco. Would that have anything to do with my troubles.

First of all, you don't have PD so there is not reason to spend a lot of $$ on verapamil. I am not sure what is going on with the sensory deficit, but I would definitely reccommend you stop smoking. MG

December 2007

Acupuncture and traditional chinese medicine is the cure. Western doctors will advocate a wait-and-see approach. I had several weeks of pain and inflammation, during which I took large doses of vitamin E and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, but otherwise ignored until I noticed the formation of an extreme hourglass deformity at the distal end of the shaft, and severe erectile dysfunction. Being a medical researcher I knew immediately the seriousness of my illness, and saw a local urologist to get a referral to a leader in the field at Mayo clinic. He refused to make any diagnosis or treatment because he regarded the case as infantile in its development, and because no single western treatment has a success rate higher than twice the natural recovery rate. I instead sought a local acupuncturist, well known for his skill at chinese medicine and educated and trained in China. He assured me that proper acupuncture and herbal treatment regularly for three months would soften the tissue with increased blood flow, and that the scar tissue would eventually dissolve. This, he said, was especially possible because I had confronted the disease early, so that no serious fibrosis or calcification had begun. It has been two months now, and my erectile function is back to normal, and my deformity is nearly gone. Please do not assume that there is no cure for something simply because someone tells you so. What they really mean is, they have no cure. Eastern medicine practices operate on principles that are not scientifically understood yet, but for some reason work, and have been working - for thousands of years.

Interesting. MG

About two months ago, I had lots of sex with a girl, about 4 times a night for about a week. After that, the area just below my penis head where the shaft meets the head started hurting. This was on the right left side. I went to a urologist, who saw nothing wrong with it from the outside, and just recommended rest. At the time, when I had an erection for too long, that area would start hurting. I had sitz baths for a while and the pain disappeared in about 3-4 weeks. However, right after this pain resolved, I began developing pain in the entire penis shaft. It was pretty random, on some days the pain would be at base of the shaft, on some it would be at the right side or left side. I wasn't really sure what was wrong with it, and I went to three different urologists, who saw nothing wrong with it again. There was nothing on the shaft of the penis that they felt. However, a few weeks later, I discovered my penis slightly curved towards the right both in flaccid and erect state. When flaccid, the curve wasn't that noticable. When my penis was partially erect, the curve would be a lot more noticable, but when the penis was fully erect, the curve would diminish to about 10-15 degrees. There would be pain that accompanied erection, but the pain actually came after the erection, instead of during. In other words, there was no pain when I had an erection, but there was a lot of pain following the erection, which would last in some form for a few days. The pain actually did not hurt the shaft too much. It was more concentrated as a burning sensation on the tip of my penis, for whatever reason. Is this PD? If it is or isn;t, what is this burning sensation at the tip of my penis?

The poorly localized genital pain, particularly the pain at the tip suggests you had prostatitis. I'm not sure why you had the bend; it does not sound like PD. MG

My penis was perfectly normal prior to 2 procedures for kidney stones, one in each kidney. The use of stints to bypass the tube from the kidney to the bladder were used. After the removal of the last stint, I experienced 3 days of penis bleeding. After the penis stopped bleeding and my kidney pain had subsided, I had my first erection. At this time, the penis had a pronounced upward curve and was very painful. My doctor diagnosed me with Peronies. It has been 7 months since my last stint removal and their has not been any changes. Have there been other reports of similar onset of Peronies after stints, catheters, etc?

Yes, instrumentation of the urethra can lead to PD. MG

I have had PD for about 10 years and am a 42 yrs of age currently…. Not much curvature, but pain during erections… For 4 years I was told to take 400 IU of vitamin E, but the results were fairly negative. Then I saw an Urologist that asked me to take Vitamin E but with Gamma tocopherols which helped significantly. After another year I saw a Homeopathic “doctor” who suggested graphitis which did help. I took the graphitis just about every 6 months for about two years. Then I saw yet another urologist who prescribed colchicine .6 mg twice a day. This did help but at that time I was suffering from shin-splints from running and playing basketball. The drug had an adverse effect on the shin pain and made it such that I could not walk without feeling pain for over a year. I took the colchicines for 3 months and finally stopped because of the increased pain in my legs. My guess is that the drug was breaking down beneficial healing tissue in my legs as a side effect. I also used a vacuum pump about a year ago as suggested by my urologist. I have week valves in my veins and have varicose veins in my legs so the pump had the effect of causing a varicocele. Just writing this to make others aware of the difficulties PD can cause. The Vitamin E with Gamma tocopherols and the graphitis had the best effect without causing some other side effect… I did also try Chinese medicine with little results except for an increased desire for sexual activity… The colchicines probably would have worked well if the dosage was lower and if I did not have some sort of injury my body was trying to heal. I wonder about surgery with a skin graft as the penis continues to feel pain and continues to get smaller… but with my track record I think a conservative approach is warranted.

Thanks for sharing your experience. MG

I have been seeing someone for sometime now and we are considering taking our relationship to a sexual level. I wanted to be honest with him so I let him know that I do have genital herpes. I have not had an outbreak in over 5 years and I can take Valtrex to try to prevent spreading it. He spoke to his doctor who told him not to have a sexual relationship with me of any kind due to the herpes. I believe he stated that because the PD was an autoimmune disorder that possibly contracting herpes would cause a much more severe problems for him than in a male without PD. Is this true? Is there any way to have a sexual relationship together without it possibly worsening his condition?

Peyronies is probably not autoimmunity, but could be aggravated by a severe herpes outbreak. If you are under good control and use valtrex and he uses a condom, I do not see a lot of risk. MG

I am 50 years old, and just came from the urologist, who diagnosed me with Peyronie's disease. I had gone to see him because a couple of days ago I was having intercourse and during ejaculation I experienced intense pain in my urethra at the tip of my penis and even a couple of drops of blood. The curvature of my penis, which has been presen for several months, was almost an afterthought, though on examination the doctor confirmed the presence of plaque. My doctor told me that PD shouldn't be responsible for the urethral discomfort or bleeding, but I'm wondering if the bend in my penis might have caused some irritation, and possibly a crack, in the urethra, or possibly pinched it shut, causing it to crack during ejaculation.

Yes that is quite possible. MG

My husband is 30 and has had PD for about a year ~ so I would have to assume that statistical information is incorrect and that it's just possibly because younger men may not seek attention as often as older men do. I say my husband has had this for about a year because we're not really sure when it began. I tend to believe that symptoms may have started when I noticed it would take longer for him to get an erection. This was followed by a narrowing at the base of the penis, then a change in the head of the penis, followed by an indentation around the penis shaft, nearer to the body than the head, and now a deep "V" type indent on 1 side, deep enough for my index finger to sit comfortably fit in. He says he can feel a bump inside, and after taking vitamin E believes the bump has been moving more towards the head and as another person posted, hopefully up & out. I haven't noticed any improvement and if anything find that the symptoms are worsening. My husband was seen by a Urologist who declined to confirm a diagnosis of PD (although I think it's quite evident). He's lost 1+" in length and of course the circumference has changed with the narrowing and indents. I would not recommend surgery unless it was a case of severe deformity and inability so that's out for us. But I would love more information about the acupuncture recently posted about - as well as the cost of the topical medication some have found improvement with.

I do not have information about acupuncture - perhaps our readers can help. MG

I am 29 and I think I may be developing Peyronie's. My penis, when flacid, has always twisted slightly to the right - at least for as long as I can remember. Recently I noticed that my penis, when flacid and erect, curves to the right (~10 degrees) and the left side of my penis is slightly larger (fatter?) than the left. I have not noticed any plague - although I don't really know what to look for, everything looks and feels pretty normal. I have not experienced any pain with erection and, as far as I can tell, the length of my erection is the same.

This sounds more like congenital curvature than PD. MG

I am 26 years old. Found a small lump on my penis(top right) few days ago. There with no pain during erection.No bend at all.But feel pain when squeez the lump.Worry will be getting worse.What should I do now?

It's probably a skin issue. Avoid squeezing. If it doesn't go away in 6 to 8 weeks, see a doctor. MG

I have yet to be diagnosed and am nervous to go to a urologist. My erect penis curves downward a little when I'm standing at about a 20 degree angle. I'm afraid I won't be able to satisfy my girlfriend. I think it might be normal but would like to have some sort of professional opinion.

To me this configuration sounds to be within the range of normal - I don't see it causing sexual problems. MG

I'm interested in correcting congenital curvature and was wondering what the general cost for a Nesbit procedure(Penis has been bent at a 45 degree angle for over 10 years now).

In California surgery would run around $2,000, anesthesia and facility fee (outpatient) around $3,000. MG

For many years PD did not cause me pain, except at the beginning, the vitamin E I was advised to take, and did not do much for me. I had no problems sexually, while the bending existed, but not perhaps as severe as I have read in some of the articles. Since last few weeks of 2007 I have noticed a lesser erective stage as I would be used too, and of course my wife is wondering why this now happens. Reading through the explanations PD cannot cause impotence, but it can effect the erective state.

Peyronies commonly affects erectile function, although oftentimes in minor ways. If you are experiencing problems with erection, the first thing to do would be to see your doctor for a trial of one of the meds like viagra, cialis, or levitra. MG

November 2007

I have had curvature in my penis for as long as I can remember. A small “cork screw” effect. I experience no pain when errect or during intercourse. I have only recently become aware of PD. From what I have read so far, I am a little confussed as to wheather I have PD or not. I am 36 years of age, a little young from what I can tell. Should I get myself checked out or will all be fine as it is?

You only have mild congenital curvature, which will never cause you problems - it's nothing to worry about. MG

I'm 34 relatively healthy and still able to have intercourse. I have had PD for about 1 year. Erections are sometimes painful and prevent intercourse. Rough sex is out altogether for fear of re-injury. I have about a 45 degree bend pulling to the upper left. There is a "deep" indention on the left side of my penis. There is a double-pea sized knot about mid-shaft. I have tried Potoba and vit-E treatments. I am currently taking a vit-E&C pill, vit-B super complex pill, along with a vascodialator pill regimen ( weight lifter buddy turned me on to this). It appears as though the knot may be moving up the shaft slowly. Hopefully up and out. I read about some sort of traction type therapy. Is there a way to do this on your own or is a Dr. required? I am larger than average in length and work in a very physical environment. Is there a way to be in "traction" and still be able to be physically active or do you have to be layed up for this? Is the COLLAGENASE treatment available over the counter or is a prescription required? And finally how do I sign up for any type of this research therapy? I believe my case is severe enough to be of help if a treatment was found that works. The light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming freight train.

Traction (by using one of the penile extenders available on line) might help. Clinical trials with collagenase may be starting in the middle of 2008 - I will be sure to announce further developments on the web site. MG

Having being diagnosed with PD and found no relief or significant improvement from the use of Potaba I started to look for alternative treatments and came across a doctor in Toronto who is offering Ultra Sonic treatment and claiming some success. Are you aware of this and do you have any comment you feel able to make regarding this approach.

Ultrasound has been used for about 30 years now - without any good evidence of effectiveness. MG

I am a diabetic and have ED. I have been using a battery operated pump for erections. http://www.augustams.com/ Touch II. Sometime in the fast several months, I notice that my erections were curving in the shape of a banana. I also noticed that a bulge was taking place in front of the tension system near the base of my penis. Not sure if the two are related. Has anyone experienced anything similar?

I will post responses. MG

I am 31 and was diagnosed 4 months ago and in that time my PD has grown from a pea size to almost an inch in length all around the penis, just beneath the head. So it's more like a bottle neck but I am concerned that it will continue to spread at this rate. My urologist suggested Vit-E when he diagnosed it, but as seems to be the norm, this hasn't worked. Should I see him again to see how its spread and possibly try other treatment? Is this rate of spread normal?

I think it might be wise to consider additional therapy, like verapamil injections or oral colchicine. At your age it is not unusual for the the disease processs to change more rapidly - and this includes improvement as well. MG

I have been diagnosed with PD and my urologist relates that he feels I have adequate length to make me a viable candidate for the Nesbit procedure. Is there a way to accurately estimate the potential loss in length as a result of this surgery? I know that you’ve stated that the average is 1-2 cm but it in the erect state it appears to be more like a 1-2 inch difference from the longer to the shorter side and the doctor told me that the new length would be that of the shorter side. The grafting procedure is more risky but I thought that adding a graft to the short side would increase length and not decrease it, but many of the sites claim that both procedures reduce length. Why is this so for the grafting technique? Lastly what is your opinion on traction devices and would you recommend its use on a patient with less than severe curvature to the left with conditions being present for @2 years?

You can print a full-size photo of your penis, use scissors to cut out a wedge on the convex side, then swing it down to close the resulting defect and see what it looks like. Also, you can measure your stretched flaccid penis, which will give you a good estimate of post op length. Graft operations don't cause as much shortening as nesbit, but they will not restore lost length. Traction is under study now - no one knows for sure. MG

i am 17 years old and though i have normal erections, i see my penis is a little crooked to the left(aprox 30 degrees)...Is it normal for a man?i am worried because i have not had sex yet and i think i won't be able to satisfy my girlfriend.I am afraid...i don't think it is that Peyronie's desease..but i don't know!I don't feel pain or anything else.And i can see this bending to the left since i 've had my very first erection. p.s do man in general have a penise which bents a bit?I mean,is there the perfectly straight penis?

You are normal. Perfectly straight exists only in the realm of Euclidean geometry. MG

I was diagnosed last month with Peyronie's. I have a lump the size of a pinto bean near the head of my penis, on the underside. Erections are somewhat painful, with a tight, almost burning sensation at the location of the lump. And the shape of my penis has been altered - there is a dent on the left. It seems to me, too, that it's slightly smaller all around -both in erect length and width. I'm 42 and this happened quite suddenly. Anyway, I'm just writing to share my story. It's a profoundly upsetting situation. While it's not cancer or heart disease, it definitely impacts my life. I'm not interested in sex, for one thing. And I feel uncomfortable with my penis, almost like I had a transplant and have some other guy's penis on my body. It doesn't feel or look familiar. I have noticed, too, that the sensation has become dull. Sex no longer feels good like it used to. So given this, and the pain during erection -which is minor, more of an irritation- my interest in sex has plummeted. I don't like to think about it because it's depressing to realize this has actually happened to me. And there doesn't seem to be anything I can do about it. My doctor told me it could clear up but most likely would not. It could also get worse but hopefully will not. In other words, oh well. Sometimes I try and think positive about the good sex I was able to experience in the past. But instead of comforting me, this just makes me sad. I am somebody who accepts new challenges and works hard to be positive, but this has me stumped. No pun intended.

Thank you for sharing your experience - loss of intimacy and alteration of self image can happen in PD. MG

In February of 2005 I was diagnosed with Prostate cancer. I underwent internal and external beam radiation which resulted in blood clots in my urine. My urologist removed the clotting by inserting either a catheter or something else to get to the source of the bleeding in by bladder. A catheter then was left in and then removed a day later. A few weeks later I had an erection and there was a 45 degree upward curve. I went in to see him and he didn’t detect any scarring and then induced an erection to confirm the degree of the problem. He said surgery was risky and put me on a steady diet of Cialis and told me that continued intercourse would help more than anything. I got a second opinion and he said try Vitamin E and more or less agreed with the first opinion. A year has passed and things got better. The curve started to straighten out and I thought I was out of the woods. It still was somewhat curved but the length had improved and intercourse was getting much better. I stopped the steady diet of cialis and vitamin E. Then the curve went the other direction bending downward about 70 degrees and the length is shorter. Do you think the trauma of the bleeding may have caused this or possibly the catheter or the radiation and what would you recommend at this time

Both the catheter and radiation implant can be associated with PD. Perhaps resuming the maintenance therapy with Cialis would give you additional improvement. MG

I'm a 41 year old male and in the last 2 years i have noticed a thinning in the middle of the shaft of my penis. It's mostly when I'm erect. It's not painful and easily corrected (by lightly stretching the area with thumb and index finger.) I notice it much more in colder temperatures and mostly when an erection is beginning . The skin in the middle becomes very tight and wrinkly and the complexion somewhat darker than the rest of the penis & this is when the hourglass shape is at its most severe. Like I mentioned after some simple manipulation the skin loosens up and its not a problem , nor does it impeded any sexual function...but it is a bit troubling in terms of it appearance at times.... Is this a form of Peyronies ?

If the hard erection itself is not misshapen, I don't think this is PD. MG

I know this is going to fly in the face of several folks who have had different results, but I was diagnosed with PD about a year ago. Symptoms had been coming on for about six to nine months before that. Its pretty severe and I am 49 years old. My urologist prescribed topical vreapamil. I have stuck with it. True, insurance didn't cover it, but I gladly paid the bill. Its been a year and there has been a progressive improvement. Not my "old" self, but after being unable to have intercourse for several months, I can now. I don't know for sure if vrapamil did it or not, but I am not complaining.

That is certainly worth reporting. MG

im 18, got peyronies, got it bad, 3 large plaques, 2 under the head on the sides and one mid-shaft on the top. Now ive read everything on the internet, gone to urologists, heard about it all and I only want one thing. I want a cure, a complete cure, I want these plaques out. Now I dont care where I have to go and who I have to talk to, or how much I have to pay, this is the only thing I want in life, a cure. Nothing else. So starting with you, any hints? any idea who the best urologists in the world are? what the best treatment is? anything.

The good news is, at your age there is a good chance this problem will eventually resolve. The bad news is that there are no simple answers. MG

I developed pd approximately 1 year ago. It started with a small lump, accompanied with pain during erection. but no bending of the penis. Then about three months ago, I developed an extreme bending at the lumps. More than 45 degrees, over night! My urologist told me not to waste my time with vitamin e, he said it doesn't work. Do you believe that vitamin E does any thing to help pd?

There are theoretical reasons why vitamin E should help to stabilize PD, but there is no evidence it lessens bending any better than placebo. MG

After a couple months of painful erections and the development of a severe curve in my penis, I went to my physician and was told I have Peyronies. He suggested vitamin E and we discussed surgical options, but I had no improvement over the next several months. The most difficult part for me was waking up during the night with painful erections. During this time my wife started taking a nutritional supplement called Reliv (these are patented products by a company traded on the NASDAQ, so this isn't a scam product). She had Parkinson's Disease, Sjogrens Disease, pain for 20 years from 2 accidents, chronic insomnia, severe ulcerative colitis, and other conditions. Within a few months on the products she had relief from every condition, including the Parkinsons' symptoms gone and off medications. She became a distributor for Reliv and to support her I started the nutrition. I hoped to get more energy and sleep better, but NEVER considered this helping the Peyronies. To my astonishment, after 1 month on the Reliv, I was not waking up with painful erections any more. Over the past 5 months, the pain has not returned, the curve is lessening and my penis is beginning to lengthen during erections. This has been a God send for my wife and I. We love to tell people about the great results we have had with our health.

Very interesting. MG

I didn't even notice it myself until once during intercourse I realized that my penis was not the same "straight guy" he has always been. I said " I don't remember my penis being bent this way". We subsequently realized that some problems I had been facing in the last few months had been a predicator to this event. My doctor had no helpful insights and I left feeling less than confident. Today,having experienced yet another frustrating lovemaking session where the pain prevented the ultimate act (although simply being naked with my wife is pure joy) I decided to search the internet and found your sight. It was actually very comforting to find you described me as the "typical" man who experiences this disease and that the pain eventually subsides. I can live with the distorted penis....it's close to the direction I always wanted anyway....but being able to have an erection without the pain is perfection!

Most men with PD don't have such severe bending as to completely prevent intercourse, and the pain usually goes away on its own. MG

My fiance has PD with an almost 90 degree bend downward; for the length of time we have been intimate I've been developing reoccuring bladder infections - could his PD be a major factor in this? And are there any other internal risks for the female partner?

PD bending may cause urethral irritation during intercourse and resulting bladder infection, but there are no other risks to the partner. MG

In Jan. of 2007 I had a cystoscopy to remove a kidney stone in the right tube. I was in the hospital and put under general antisthiec while the procedure was preformed. After a few days home I had an erection of the penis to find it had a probably 60 deg. Bend to the left and up. The penis was not as hard as normal and would not stay errected for long. I found it very very difficult to have sex anymore. I went back to my Dr. who said I had damaged scar tissue which can be felt along the shaft. He said it was called peyronie's Disease and not to do anything for a year. He also told me to take vitamin E for it. No exclamation of why this happened. I am finding it harder and harder to live with. I am a male 59 years old. Do you think the cystoscope had anything to do with the damage to the tissue. I had no problems before.

Urethral instrumentation, such as a catheter or scope, can produce PD. MG

For those of you who have been at this awhile, is there a foundation that actively lobbies for governmental medical research for our condition? I have spent some time on the Internet and have not come up with one. Also, there does not appear to be any clinical trials. If the answer is no, I would like to start a foundation that would lobby for medical research. (I would be willing to fund the startup expenses, such as the legal paperwork). This is the only way we will ever make progress. Verapramil does not work (I know from personal experience) and I am not optimistic about AA4500. I work for a government agency that funds research and I know that nothing happens without money and Congressional pressure. We would have to start from square one. If we can get this started the next step would be to raise money and get a lobbyist. Maybe a fundraising website.

This would be beneficial - there is good basic research to be done, much of which would apply to other medical conditions involving abnormal scarring. MG

2 years ago I noticed mild pain in the shaft. This has been followed by progressive curvature. The pain persists, not worse during erection, slightly worse with full bladder in AM which lessens after urination. Can pain last this long in PD?

Yes, although it is uncommon - pain usually resolves after 12 -18 months. MG

21 yr old student, long distance relationships during the school year leads to a lot of self-stimulation. Now, I know you've mentioned that masturbation doesn't lead to PD, but I can't help but notice how the curvature matches the technique (although that could just be technique matching the curvature). Anyways, I have no hard lumps, but have noticed changes in all three dimensions... curved upwards, to the right and rotated on its axis to the right (I haven't seen anyone else note rotation so it kind of has me concerned). I've noticed the curvature for a while (especially last year or so) and it appears to be getting worse... I'm guessing a possible reduction in self-stimulation (or perhaps stretching the erection in the opposing direction) with the addition of vitamin E (topical or oral?) might be my best course of action at the moment?

Sounds like you are doing the right things. I don't think you have PD. MG

How do you distinguish between Mondor's disease and Peyronie's disease. Does Mondor's also cause a hardening of penile tissue, and what treatments are available?

Mondor's syndrome is hardening in dorsal veins due to local blood clots and/or phlebitis. It is self-limiting, usually treated with aspirin, and does not cause scarring or bending. MG

Earlier this year I had the Nesbit procedure to correct congenital curvature. My reconstruction urologist recommended that I also have penile lengthening to compensate for the shortening. Due to penile instability problems as a result, I am now thinking about having the penile suspensory ligament(PSL) repaired to stabilize my erections at the base and maintain an erect penis during intercourse. My question is would PSL repair cause neurovascular problems? Would I have problems with blood flow, leakage, maintaining an erection, nerve damage or loss of sensation, etc? Do you recommend PSL repair?

Repairing the PSLcould cause neurovascular problems. I have no experience with this procedure as I do not perform penile lengthening. MG

i have peyronie's and there is a lack of research. I started a web site so hopefully we can get something postive going. i would appreciate if you could mention it on your site http://letscurepeyronies.blogspot.com/

OK. MG

I was diagnosed with a mild case of peyronies about 4 years ago. I have no curvature, but sometimes after climaxing, in cold weather, or after bowel movements the center of my penis retracts while the tip stays full. It feels like a sack filled with water at the bottom. Any insight on this so far? I've actually been able to adapt very well to it. I have a great sex life with my girlfriend. After learning more, I began to gently squeeze the tip of my penis in order to push the remaining blood at the tip of my penis back out towards the body past the mid point where the scar tissue is. It sometimes helps return my penis to normal shape when the peyronies acts up. Could this gente squeezing of the filled tip be any harm or cause any damage?

I'm not sure what this is, though it does not sound harmful. MG

I have had Peyronies for almost 2 years,length and girth size is reduced and a 45>degree upward angle has developed.I am 60 yrs.old and also need to use Viagra now. Would it be possible to take 360 mg.tabs of Verapamil and 0.6 mg. of Colchicine and supplement with Vitamin E 1000 IU at the same time on a daily basis.I suffer only a small amount of pain during intercourse but more afterwards.Most of all it affects my relationship with my wife and my future outlook on sex in my future age.

Oral verapamil has not been shown to produce high enough tissue levels for therapeutic effect, so I would eliminate that. Everything else seems OK. MG

October 2007

I have had a firm pea-sized lump at the very base of my penis (close to the pubic bone) for over 15 years. It is very mobile and I can even hold it between 2 fingers. It appears to sit on some kind of hardened vessel. At the time it was dismissed as a cyst. 6 months ago I noticed a second lump right beside the first one, which was again dismissed as “nothing”. A month ago I noticed a third lump (same size) in the shaft, which seems to be in the right corpus cavernosum. Again there is a swollen vessel leading to it. It is painless and there is no curvature or erection problem, but since a week ago I suffer mild diffuse pain in the right groin and renal region. Could it be Peyronie's?

Sounds more like superficial vein thrombosis than PD, though an evaluation by a urologist would be a good idea. MG

9 months ago I had the Nesbit procedure done to correct a downward curvature. All sutures have buried themselves except for two(suture knots) which are causing discomfort and skin abraisions during intercourse. They are located dorsally but one is at the far left and the other is at the far right of the penis midway along the shaft when erect. They are placed symmetrically to one another and are very much at the surface of the penis just under the outer skin. I was told by a local reconstruction urologist that these two suture knots are located very close to the nerves and said that I could lose sensation if the sutures were removed. He fears that if he were to remove those sutures and replace them with absorbable sutures the curve would probably return a few months later. He also confirmed that I do not have suture granulomas. My problem is also causing discomfort to my girlfriend during intercourse because these two suture knots feel like two small hard pieces of stone that stick out beyond the normal profile of the penile shaft when in the erect state.

The fact that these sutures are located laterally on the shaft (off the midline) suggests to me that not a lot of dorsal neurovascular mobilization would be required to expose them. Your doctor is correct in that the use of absorbable sutures can be associated with recurrence of the original bend. If they are persistant and bothersome, they could probably be removed and replaced in inverted position (knots buried), though this would carry a slight risk of sensory loss. MG

I am a 54-year-old diabetic. I was curious about an odd curvature of my penis upward during erection, and my doctor examined me and immediately diagnosed my problem as Peyronie's. I've also been suffering from ED for about a year or so that has been spotty in its response to prescribed ED medications. The doctor recommended a regime of Vitamin E. A couple questions that I should have asked him, but I hope you will be kind enough to answer: 1. I had been having severe blood sugar problems for about six months that seem to be improving. Will an improvement in my blood sugar effect a lessening of the Peyronie's symptoms? 2. How effective is Vitamin E? How much should I be taking daily? How soon might I possibly see any effects from it?

As there is a known relationship between diabetes and Peyronies disease, improvement in glucose control would be a good idea. Vitamin E is a standard reccommendation - it will probably not reverse the condition but may help it to stabilize. MG

I'm fairly sure I have PD, I had a gentle curve to my penis all my life but in the last 4 months I noticed an increase in this and I'm really freaked out. I have an appointment with a urologist in 1 month and I estimate this has been "condition" for about 3 1/2 months. It 1 month too long to wait to retain the best chances of reversal and recovery? Should I start Vitamin E on my own ? if so what dose? As far as treatment, recovery goes are their any preclusions for, HIV+?

It certainly wouldn't hurt to start vit E (400 units daily). 1 month would not be too long to wait. HIV status will not affect treatment. MG

I am a 27 yrs old male, with very good physical condition. I am an unmarried person, and so far I don't have any physical relationship in my life, till date I am virgin. Three weeks ago every thing was normal with me. I was having proper erection in my penis, and use to have masturbation twice in a week. But in recent 2 weeks I am not getting any erection, as well as no any desire to masturbate. I am not putting any stress to masturbate or ejaculate.. waiting for natural cure. I have not faced any physical problem in recent few years.. Nothing is wrong with my other part of body.. I am very much particular about my diet and workouts too. Only one thing which may be psychological, for my higher education I am staying in abroad, away from my parents for last couple of years, and unable to visit them in last entire year.. From last 6-7 years I have noticed one thing, my entire penis ( not only tip) is having some curve towards left, when its in erected position. I am not sure is it erectile dysfunction or not? But I found on Internet, such a shape of penis is not that uncommon, may be due to masturbation there is slight curve..I am not sure is it erectile dysfunction or Peyronies disease. So far I have not been to any doctor regarding this problem, but planning to visit an urologist soon. Please could you advice me, do I really have any problem or it's just psychological problem.

I don't think you have Peyronies disease. MG

Why can't orthoscopoic or laser procedures be used to correct curvature?

Because they don't address the problems created by PD. MG

I have been diagnosed with PD but am wary of the urologist who reached this conclusion. There are no lumps. However, under the surface of the skin is a ribbon-like hardness about one-half inch wide that runs along the top side for the full length, from within my body up to the glans. A blood vessel that lies on top does not seem affected by this. The curvature is gradually upward for most the length of the shaft at approximately 45 degrees. It developed overnight. It was fine one day, the next day was this change. That first erection was mildly painful for one minute or less, but there has been no pain since. Instead, there is a slight pulling sensation; the girth is diminished and the length has shortened by about 1.5 inches, 50% of which was immediate. I am 60 years old and this condition began 9 months ago. If this is not PD, what else might it be?

Sounds like PD to me. MG

I was just diagnosed with PD after sustaining a sex related injury to my penis about a month ago. I went to a urologist who recommended vitamin E and a wait and see attitude for 6 months. I'd like to be more proactive and so began taking neprinol and vitamin E today. I have a small bump on the top of my penis but no noticeable curvature. There is some pain having intercourse. Is this an aggressive enough course? Is there any downside to going this route?

There is no good data on the effectiveness of vit E + neprinol. A more agressive course would involve injection therapy, either verapamil or interferon. If you want to stay with oral therapy, I would consider adding colchicine. MG

Is there something that will take away the scar tissue that causes the penis to shrink?

No, unfortunately. MG

Several urologists have told me I have a minor cases of Peyronies disease. This is based on the presence of several littles cysts, tumors or bumps in my shaft. They feel like they're in the middle of the penis, virtually in the urethra. The doctors refer to them as plaques and scar tissue. I don't have any noticeable curvature, despite what feel like a lot of plaques. Urinary retention, weak stream, and occasional urinary frequency are my most persistent and bothersome symptoms. Recently, urine has come out in a split stream, as if the urine was navigating around an obstruction. When I urinate or ejaculate, I get the feeling that the urethra is not quite empty. I have to strain and push to get the rest out. I have experienced similar sensations during masturbation, accompanied by an excess amount of preejaculate. I recently felt a burning sensation near the head of my penis when I urinated. Do you think I have Peyronies disease, and does PD often interfere with normal urination?

Peyronies disease will not affect urination. MG

I was diagnosed at 35 with PD. Erections were somewhat painfull and there was curvature. Soon after the pain went away. Since it did not affect my sex life my doctor said that treatment was not necessary. I just turned 50 and recently I have noticed that the curvature is much worse, aprox. 90 degrees from right to left. There is also an indent so my penis has a twist to it. I can still have sex with my wife without any problems, but the disfigured penis bothers me. Coincidentally, I am being treated for Rheumatoid Arthritis. The RA (if that is a correct diagnosis) just started last year. At 35 my doctor said I was young for PD and now my Rhematologist says that I am young RA. Could there be any connection?

Yes, this is quite possible as both disorders can reflect an abnormal immune response to your own connective tissue. MG

My penis is bent slightly to the right, about 20 degrees. The problem is a very prominent indention on the left side near the base of the penis. It is about 3/4 inches long and appears to take up the full width of the left corpora cavernosa when erect. Is it possible to remove the plaque and return the penis to it's original condition. If removing the plaque also removes the sponge material that swells with the blood flow, are there any sponge material that can be used as a replacement. If this is not possible, please tell me what the best treatment is.

It depends on erectile function: if it is very normal, graft procedures may be able to restore diameter in this area (plaque incision or removal does not remove the spongy material). If not, implant surgery may be a consideration. MG

This is going to sound weird, i just saw a program on Tv about Peyronies I'm 15 years old and my penis is curved when errect, and sorta points to the left about 10-20 degrees The curve is quite visible if looking in a mirror. I've noticed this since i was around 12-13 i think.. Do i have the disease and if so go to the doctors but i am quite shy and don't want to get my penis out if you need proof i can do a paintshop exact drawing of how it curves Thanks alot please email back, i want to have children when im older.

You don't have PD, and this won't stop you from becoming a father in the future. MG

September 2007

I developed Peyronie's Disease about 10 month's ago. The urologist first said vit-E 1200 IU for 5 months no resalts so I could not get the verry price Topical Verapamill. So next thing was the Verapamill injections 6 spread out over two weeks a part not knowing what to expect my first problem was the pain of the shot's - one a local anestices then 2 shots of the verapamill then I got up and found my self on the DR.'s floor only to find out that that stuff do's that to you. Then came the swelling and black & blue penis with a lot of pain the only thing that helped for 5 days was a ice pack on and off thru the day I would like to think some one could have prepared me so I am letting any one that is thinking about this treatment I have 5 more visits now I am glade that I did not spend the money on the Topical Verapamill I so far have not read any one that had any resolts so mayby the injections will help I will keep you posted.

Please do. MG

I have just recently bee diagnosed as suffering with PD. I am capable of having an erection and normal sex is still possible. I am cocerned about treatment options and becoming impotent for rest of my life. What are the statistics on that for each surgical treatment option?

Peyronies disease is not likely to make you impotent. The chance of significant erectile dysfunction following surgery is about 3-5% for a plicataion procedure, and 10 -15% for a graft-based operation. MG

I distinctly remember being normal before a circumcision and having a severe downward curvature after. I had the circumcision when I was 7-8 years old. At the time I did not care about the significance of my problem. It never struck me as being abnormal until I was older. It pains me to think that had I notified my doctor, something could have been done it at the onset. It's now 11 years later (Im 19). I have never had any pain or discomfort while being erect. I have a fair amount of flexibility (no pain until bending it in literally the other direction). I was wondering whether I'm suffering from PD or congenital curvature. I have some flexibility and can't really feel any scar tissue (what is it supposed to feel like? Is it visible?), so I thought it would be the latter, but the curvature is pretty severe (90 degree pretty much) which might indicate it is PD after all. Another point that might support PD is the fact that it occured after surgery... I'm guessing scarring is a possibility in that sense. I've never slept with anyone... so I don't know whether sex is even possible in my state. Since I don't know, I'm weary about surgery--are there any statistics on what chance I have of getting postop ED?

Removal of excessive skin from the underside of the penis at circumcision may produce downward bending. This does not sound like PD. Correction of congenital curvature with plication at your age carries a very small chance of ED - less than 5%. MG

About two years ago (age 45) I had a penis I was satisfied with. One morning when I woke up and sat at the edge of my bed, I leaned over to put my slippers on. At the most bending of that action I felt a painful stinging snap at the base of my penis. About a minute later it subsided, and I shrugged the event off. A few weeks later, or perhaps a month or two I noticed my penis was not looking the way it always had. Larger at the top (before the tip), and thinner at the base. Slight ache to it too. A few months after that I was astounded to notice a bend, not to one side, but upward, almost at the half way point. and even still thinner at the base. The pain, or rather ache was no more, but the misshapen bend was accompanied by in and out valleys along the sides, as well as much shorter then it was before this happened to me. Doing a lot of online reading I came to understand Peyronies, something I never even heard about befpre. I was so disappointed in this day of medicine there was nothing that significantly helps, other then surgery that can straighten the penis, but not regain length. I have heard about shock therapy, pumps, etc. I have read all about Vitamin E, Poba, and many more, but always with the added lines there is no evidence to support their effectiveness. How frustrating. I have read your entire list of answers to others. I was hoping perhaps there was something you may have heard, or perhaps your own theory as what might help, that you haven't written about before. For instance, on the market now there are scar treatments to soften, or breakdown and fade away scars. Topically used on the penis, absorbed by the penis, in your professional opinion would you think this may soften the scar tissue within? For me, surgery is not an option, I just would hope there was something that could breakdown a fibrosis tissue type plaque.

At this point one of the most promising medical approaches is nearing phase II clinical trials: intralesional collagenase. This drug has been proven to break down plaque tissue, and the question is, just how effectively can is correct bending? MG

Does Peyronie's disease stop the growth of your penis? If so, will curing Peyronie's initiate remaining development?

It is not known to stop the growth of the penis. MG

I am a PT and routinely work on patients to break up adhesions and scar tissue. My new boyfriend has recently (4 mo) developed PD. Can some type of gentle manual therapy aid in breaking up the plaque of PD? Also, if the initial stages of inflammation in PD can cause the laydown of scarring in the tissue, is there any benefit to systemic anti-inflammatory agents/ herbs or anti-inflammatory diets?

This may be of help, as preliminary data suggests traction / stretching may lessen curvature. Anti inflammatory medications have not proven helpful in correcting deformity, though they will lessen pain. MG

I am in my early 20s. I have about 35 degrees bend to the left. My base on the left side feels soft during an erection. During maximum erection, right side becomes properly erect and rigid but the left side, again mostly at the bottom, remains only mildly rigid and penis gets bent there easily. I have some problems in masturbation. It takes long and I loses it fast if I take my hand off. I have not had any sexual intercourse yet. My night time erections are again bent and semi rigid. I always get semirigid spontaneously but have to stimulate hard to get rigidity and ejaculate. I have no pain and there is no palpable scar. Do you consider it as Peyronies?

This sounds more a vascular / congenital problem than PD. MG

I am 32 y/o and I've had a slight curvature for as long as I could remember. It curves upward and left slightly when erect. I have no bumps or pain. I've only heard women complain during sex during certain positions. I am not sure if this is congenital or PD. It doesn't bother me too much but I am worried if it is PD can it get worse?

You don't have PD, so don't worry about it. MG

Ever since I was 13 I have had a cuvature to left of about 30%. I think I can remember a time when I first started masturbating that I may have injured my penis and that may have been what caused it. But this was so long ago that it is hard to remember, (I am now 28). As far as I can tell there is no calcium deposits anywhere in my penis. I cant find any hard lumps. I have allways been embarrased of this condition and wanted to do something to correct it. From my research it seems like maybe the Nesbit procedure would probably be the best route. I have been doing some research and I found some stories of men who have had this procedure done. They said they lost a lot of length from the procedure and that sometimes after a couple years their penis went right back to its origal curvature. Is this true? How much length could I possibly lose and what are the chances of my penis going back to its original curvature? Also I have heard that sometimes after the procedure your penis will be staight during erection and curved while placid even though it was never before. Is this true?

Average length loss from Nesbit is 1 -2 cm. Return of previous curvature is very unlikely if permanent suture material is used. I have never heard of this procedure causing curvature of the flaccid penis. MG

My partner has developed a twisted penis since our last sexual intercourse. It's twisted to the left and the opening on the gland is now horizontal during erection. He says that it doesn't pain and it's now three weeks since it's still twisted. What would you advise him to do about it and is it a particular disease?

I'm not sure this is PD, but it might be a good idea for him to see a urologist. MG

I'm 54 years of age and three weeks post lue procedure for a 90 degree upwards mid shaft bend. I've suffered very painful early morning errections but am pleased that my penis now appears quite straight. It is however a bit lumpy. I gather I also had a couple of plication sutures more distally on the underside. My greatest concern is that since the op, my glans penis has no sensation at all. Whilst this is difficult to assess on ones self, I've tried touching it with a cold metal spoon, both on the shaft and then the glans. The shaft feels the cold but the glans feels nothing. My surgeon said (at 2wks post op follow up) that it may be due to contusion of the nerve but only time will tell. 'Come again in six weeks'. Is this normal and might it be permanent? If permanent, I feel I've jumped from the frying pan to the fire and suffered for nothing. I've also noticed that the length and girth are much less than they were before the op. It was about 8 ins prior to the PD and a girth of 5.75ins. Whilst I haven't measured it yet, I'm sure it's about 2.5ins shorter and much less thick. Again, is this due to the short term internal trauma and will it recover, or will it be permanent?

The lack of sensation in the first few weeks postop is worrisome, though nerves take a long time to recover. This soon after surgery the length loss is at its worst - you may get some of it back, though a loss of 2 -5 cm after repair of a 90 degree bend is not unusual. MG

I spend a lot of time working on my cars and I vaguely remember a slight pain or pinch in my penis as I was laying on my stomach across the engine compartment while my penis was smashed against a sharp edge of the fender. I never thought much about injuring my penis in the past because it didn't seem to hurt at the time I was doing it. I'm thinking that I may have damaged it in the past and this could be scar tissue of some sort. I read in a previous post that Induratio Penis Plastica ("IPP") is another name for PD. Can you have PD without any bending? Is that what IPP is? Could a pinch to the penis cause scar tissue like this? I made an appointment with a urologist, but I can't get in for weeks and now I very disturbed, because I've been reading posts on the Internet about secondary penile tumors and it's terrifying me.

Yes you can have PD (or IPP) without bending. See the doctor but don't worry about tumors - I have never seen one in 25 years of treating men with PD. MG

sometime ago i began rubbing aspercream on the penis,scrotum and along each thigh . i will tell you categorically it has significantly shrank the effect of peronies and has resulted in a fuller erection, not completely back to normal. i have never had a reaction but someone else should not rush into this.it is not as far fetched as it may sound. this rubs are designed to increase blood flow, stimulate the area and increase sensitivity.. another possible rub is ky warming gel.any medical data on this

Interesting - I have no data on this. MG

my boy-friend was just dyanose with Peyronies. His Dr. said he should medication. We are getting married very soon and always spoke about expending out family. How much or how little of effect will the medication have on us consiving. Also I think it is starting to mentally affect him as a man.

Peyronies disease will not hurt his chances of becoming a father, though he should not use colchicine. You can help him feel that he is still a man. MG

I am 57 and was told 20 to 22 months ago I had PD. I have plaque at the base of my penis on both sides and I turn upward 35 to 40% and don’t have any pain and can still have intercourse. My question is after this length of time is the condition unless stable or can I expect it to get worst?

It would be very unlikely for your condition to worsen, based on the duration above. MG

I am a 48 year old man who had surgery for PD to straighten the penis, the doctor said the plaque buildup cannot be removed, however I am upset that there is (Guitar strings) inside the shaft to straighten the penis and after all that the surgery performed in June of this year did not do the trick....the sensitivity is unbearable........I was told I could resume a normal sex life after about six weeks, I think I am losing my mind, If I don't keep gauze around the head of the penis the sensitivity is so annoying I feel like ripping it off............. are there support groups for after PD surgery? I know I am not the only one with this problem..... Maybe if I talk to people who has had this surgery I could understand more clearly about this devistating disease some men get, and no wonder we pray for death.

This hyper sensitivity should gradually disappear. I believe there is currently a support group - check the Peyronies advocates web site. MG

I believe I may have Peyronie's in the early, inflammatory stage. I do not want to wait a year or so and run the risk of it getting worse. I read that the early damage caused by Peyronie's is possibly reversible. If this is so, what should I take in the way of medication in order to accomplish this?

The standard choices in oral medications would be potaba, colchicine, and vitamin E. MG

I'm a 52 years old, this disease starts on my penis 4 years ago with a little hard scam inside, now it has around 1.5 in by .5 in my curvature is growing, I spend 1 year taking Potaba 500 mg on the daily basis but do not stop the progress. Q What can I do? Q Exist some kind of surgery?

After 4 years, surgery may be the most effective course, depending on how bad the bend is. MG

August 2007

My husband got PD in 2004 at the age of 48. At that time the tip of his penis bent 90 degrees to the left and intercourse was too painful for him. About a year later he had some body work done and his penis straightened out, however it shrunk significantly both in girth and length. He does not get very hard, and though you write that the quantity of ejaculate is not part of PD, it seems that his ejaculate is greatly reduced. He has been in denial about this for the past 4 years and we have had no sex life at all. I am sad and frustrated beyond words. He is diabetic and has not been great about maintaining his sugar levels (he was hospitalized this year for a staph infection that began with an ingrown toe nail), he has Hep C, and I think he has Dupuytren’s contractures based on what I read on your site. Do you think he could survive the risk of surgery his vascular system being what it is? And do you think an implant could successfully restore length and girth to his penis?

Implant surgery works well to correct curvature and restore function lost to erectile dysfunction (impotence), but it is not very effective in restoring girth or length. Also, in light of your husband's problems with diabetic control and infections, implant surgery could exposed him to dangerous risks such as infection or tissue loss. I would recommend he try a vacuum erection device and phosphodiesterase inhibitor (viagra, levitra, or cialis) in combination. MG

i masturbate from childhood .now um university student .um fed up by this habbit.and cannot left it.penis normal size is 2inch .in elongation it is 4.0 inches .it is downwaard curved shape and broken from mid internally .and easily can be molded. urethra length is fixed in normal case or in erection .i am not in aposition to satisfy my partner in future .upper skin of penis is loose but urethra does not allow it to extend more. ihave a headache for 7 years .digestion problem .sleepness disorder, memory is disturbed .ifeel like an abnormal person .my parents ask me to do marry .but i refuse. testes are also of undersize .um too much anxious about size and curved shape .is it peronies or something else so what is this

The downward curavature sounds congenital - see a urologist with experience in this field regarding corrective surgery. MG

I have had Peyronies for about 18 months and have lost at least an inch in length. Is there any known way to regain this length?

Not at present, though studies are underway to examine the use of physical traction (stretching). MG

I am a 14-year-old male, and have had a curvature to my penis for as long as I can remember. It bends about 8-12 degrees to the left when erect, and there is no pain or discomfort. After learning about Peyronie's disease, I searched the Internet for information on it. I am now pretty sure that it is not Peyronie's disease, and that it is either congenital curvature or hypospadias. I don't really feel comfortable talking about it at home, because I live with my mom. Would it be best for me to talk to my pediatrician, or to a urologist, or to just take a lot of Vitamin E? Also, would masturbation have any affect on the curvature, such as causing it or increasing it?

Yes, talk to your pediatrician, who will probably refer you to a urologist. Masturbation will not cause a problem. MG

I am 70 years old. My cholesterol count has been high since I know about this apparent (the medics like to call it) decease. Last year I finally gave in to the standard statin treatment. Since I’m healthy I never understood the need of taking drugs for something which doesn’t bother me at all. After a few month of taking the drug PD developed, at first a little curvature to the right plus some plaque on the penis shaft. As well as some plaque developed in the palm of both hands. A few weeks ago the curvature became upward; the erected, very hard penis touches my(flat) stomach. My wife got sore from sex and refuses further activities. In your forum I noticed a few descriptions of similar side effects. I want to quit the statins and see what happens.

This sounds like a good idea, though I know of no data linking statins to PD. The relationship to your hands (dupuytren's contracture) is real and suggests your predisposition to PD is genetic. MG

I am due to go into hospital for surgery to correct the upward bend of my penis caused by PD. I have also heard of a treatment using ultra-sound which can be carried out, is this correct? The other question is on average how long is the recovery period after surgery.

Ultrasound does not have much effect on curvature. Most surgery for PD allows you to return to sexual activity withing 4 -6 weeks. MG

I have moderate Peyronies disease, with a 30 degree upward curvature. I do experience pain with intercourse. I have been placed on topical Verapamil. Is it safe to take oral Potaba while on topical Verapamil?

Yes. MG

1. Are there any resources for finding a urologist with expertise in treating Peyronie's? 2. A urologist in Canada promotes the treatment of Peyronie's with extracorporeal shock wave therapy, which he states was originally's developed to treat kidney stones (lithotripsy). Is this an effective and preferred treatment and is there risk of tissue damage?

Scroll down the forum to find referral resources, such as the association of Peyronies disease advocates. Shock wave lithotripsy has been shown to be ineffective in at least one meta analysis (data combined from multiple studies). MG

I am a 60 year old man who was treated for prostate cancer 2 years ago. I had seed implants plus radiation. Since that time erectile function has declined to the point that Viagra, etc. produce inconsistent results. About 3 months ago I began using Edex injections which work very well. During the exam for the Edex the doctor noticed a lump at the base of my penis that he diagnosed as Peyronie’s Disease. I had only been aware of this lump for a month or two before then. Since that time the hardness has progressed to the a strip about a half each running along the length of the top of my penis. I now have about a 30 degree upward bend and experience minor discomfort when having sex. I fear it will get worse. The only trauma I ever had in that area was the catheter that was in for 24 hours after the seed implant and was very uncomfortable. I asked my doctor about discontinuing glaucosamine which I have used for 10 years but he said it was not necessary. He also said that I could continue to use the Edex. He implied that injections for treatment were easy and very effective and advised me to wait to see how things progressed. He never mentioned vitamin E or any other preventative measures. I have a number of questions; Is there any relationship between PD and prostate cancer and/or radiation treatments? Could the catheter have caused trauma and the symptoms not noticed for over a year? Should I continue to use the Edex?

There is a known relationship betweeen catheter placement and PD, as well as radical prostatectomy. Radiation itself is not know to cause this disorder - it used to be used for treatment. I would reccommend using a vacuum erection device rather than the edex injections, as most authorities feel the continued use of injections may contribute to the progression of PD. MG

I recently had to be catherized in Er because of inability to urinate because of a swollen prostate. I now have developed about a 40% bend about two thirds of the way up the penis. It has happened very quickly. Could there be a connection to the catherization?

Yes this is possible. MG

Is it possible many spontaneous remissions of PD are actually other conditions with similar symptoms? Old literature (even some recent) reported 50% spontaneous recovery. Now most reserch cites 5 - 15 %. I am thinking, with better diagnostic techniques, might this number drop even more approaching 0%? Is there any objective evidence for spontaneous recovery of confirmed PD?

Spontaneous recovery from PD is very uncommon, especially if the deformity is severe (>60 degrees). The majority of cases reporting "spontaneous remisssion" describe resolution of pain, not bending. MG

I had a tumor removed from spinal cord about 3 years ago and it is neccesary for me to take Viagra. Approximatley one month ago I had a sex which lasted for 5 or 6 hours (on and off). It is hard if not impossible for me to ejaculate so the sex went on for an extended period of time. I have not had an erection since (so about 30 days) until yesterday and thier was a serious curveture in my penis and it would not get fully erect. I have noticed some rigid bumps along the top of my penis around the base. I was sore for several days afterwards but did not experience a loss of erection during sex. I didn't even notice anything was wrong until yesterday. I do now notice when I feel around the bump that it is somewhat tender.

I would suggest you see a urologist, as this sounds like PD. MG

Where can I get information about any connection between PD and Atenolol?

There have been reports on the association of beta blockers (the class of medications that includes atenolol) and PD. A search through the national library of medicine for these key words should help you locate them. MG

I am the webmaster of the Peyronie’s Disease Institute website, at www.peyronies-disease-help.com This is an Alternative Medicine website that offers a holistic therapy concept for the management of PD. Currently, this website lists your organization on its forum directory page. You may view your link on our website at http://peyronies-disease-help.com/peyronies-forum-directory.html My medical colleagues and I request that you extend the favor to include a link on your website to the Peyronie’s Disease Institute. Here is an example of a brief description you could use for this co-linking arrangement: Peyronie’s Disease Institute – Alternative medicine website offering Peyronie’s disease holistic treatment options.

Thank you, I will work on setting up this link. MG

I do not see what I thought I might see when I found your web pages..I have had peyronies since 2005 after I noticed a black&blue on the penis 3 days after a hernia operation..doctors said it could not have been caused by the operation? what I don't see on your site is other people how have had peyronies and have had one of the operations tell the readers of this site if the operations were godd or bad ? Are we at the end of our sex life when we ger peyronies.. or is there so real hopeand good doctors ouit there.. others please answer

I will post replies as they come in. MG

i have had pd now for five years and nothing seems to help. i have tried Neprinol for 2 months now with no results. What do you recommend I do since nothing seems to work. My penis has gotten so small i have trouble urinating since it dribbles down and hard to direct the stream. My father also has had this problem since he was 55 and he's 80 now .My life sucks and getting worse.

Peyronies disease can run in families. If this has destroyed your sex life due to bending, surgery can help. Unfortunately, surgery cannot restore lost length. MG

In 2003 at the age of 62 I underwent a prostatectomy. Of course I was catheterized, and when I awoke from the surgery my first awareness was not of sensation from a surgical incision, but of an achy pain in my penis. During the next two weeks while the catheter remained in place, if I happened to bump the catheter tube in some way I received an instant sensation of pain. A dull ache remained after the catheter was removed. Some time later when I was trying to determine if I had any remaining sexual function, I took a blue pill. My penis would engorge only to just past the mid-point. Over time this went away and my erections (using injections) would be uniform. However----I discovered that I had lost one-third of my original penis length. I didn’t have that much to begin with, just less than six inches. It did seem to be a bit fatter. Just as disturbing (maybe even more so) was the fact that I had lost virtually all sensation in my penis. During my feeble efforts at sex, even if I achieved penetration I could not actually feel anything. Any “enjoyment” of the process had to created in my mind. Is this a normal result of PD? Could the surgery, particularly the way the catheter was inserted, have caused the onset of PD? I had absolutely no symptoms or problems beforehand, although my penis had always curved slightly to the left. When I suggested this possibility to my doctors they looked pained and uneasy (envisioning a lawsuit, I presume), but they never ventured an opinion. My marriage—to a younger woman—is on the rocks as a direct result of the breakdown of this part of the relationship, but I’m resigned to that and the fact that sex will no longer be part of my life. At 66 I can deal with it.

There does appear to be a cause-effect relationship between radical prostatectomy and PD, as welll as between catheterization and PD. Also, prostatectomy can reduce penile length. Usually PD does not afffect penile sensation - this may be related to your surgery. MG

About 2 years ago I was desperately reading through Peyronie's information on the internet. At that point it had just started to effect me and I was instantly panicked and soon overwhelmed by it. I am writing to let you know that for me it has gone away nearly completely. I was desperate like many of you may be and profoundly depressed. How or why did it resolve - I don't know. I am sure a reversal happens more often than is reported. It is likely that most people, if this resolves, do not come back to the internet forums and let others know. DO NOT LOSE HOPE. Take care of your body and mind as well as you are able. Good things happen too and this trying issue can go away - for me things got back to normal after approx 15-18 months. I wish you all the best. It is my belief that these tragic things are often used to have us look outside of themselves. As crazy as this may sound, I am glad for my bout with Peyronie's because I feel it brought me to a better place. For me it brought me back to God. I hope this trying time also leads to something good for you.

Thank you. MG

July 2007

I was diagnosed with PD around 1986, something I account to straining myself at the gym. Nonethless, that Dr. in Philadelphia, another in MD, and then a visit to you in the early 90s only confirmed there wasn’t much that could be done. I now see a trial that you’re starting this year and wonder if you could give information on it and who it may help. I also am curious if any of the new laser treatments that are being done to dissolve scar tissue may be a glimmer of hope for us suffering with PD. By the way I was told to stop my vitamin E by a heart specialist 2 years ago. I haven’t seen any noticeable difference without it.

Plans are being made for a clinical trial with collagenase, sponsored by the Auxilium Pharmaceutical Company, sometime in 2008. I will post details as they become available. MG

I've launched an pseudonymous blog about peyronie's disease: http://thebentnail.blogspot.com/ I'm a physician, middle aged, with fairly severe disease. Since I can't do much about it, I decided to work the wikipedia page on the topic and put material that doesn't fit the page into the blog. I'll leave it to your judgment whether it should be mentioned on your site, but I do appreciate your work.

Thank you, I'll have a look at it. MG

I had a robotic prostatectomy performed on 7/25/06. I have not yet had return of erectile function, but some stirrings. I have used an ErecAid VED for about 6 months, and tried injections over the last 2 months (about 19 times total, with success 7 times (PGE1, Bimix and Trimix tried). Did not notice curving when I was only using VED. With the injections, I have noticed curving, pointing down, and a bit of swelling. I went to see the ED specialist at UCLA Urology, and he said there was plaque and an edema, and prescribed Cialis, Pentoxyfylline and L-arginine, no VED and no injections and abstaining from sexual activity for 6 weeks, then subsequent check-up. Is this level of Peyronie's likely to be reversible? Is it normal to stop VED and sexual stimulation activity?

Radical prostatectomy can lead to penile shortening and in some cases, to Peyronies. I would agree with the above recommendations and feel there is a reasonable chance of reversal based on the time course involved. MG

Hi. I am 15 years old and I started puberty in 2006. Is it normal to have a slight curve in ur penis, and is this caused by excessive masterbation because I do it a lot because of girls hitting on me?

The slight curve is normal, and is probably not due to masturbation. MG

I've had Peyronies disease for several years. Last June (06) I started a series of injections with VERAPAMIL and also have taken Vit E orally. It's been 1 year and there is no change - I still have a 45 degree bend and inability for intercourse. My urologist recomended a implant for both the Peyronies and ED. However, he closed his practice and I need to locate a Seattle area.

Please refer to prior entries in the forum for referral resources. MG

Could you please comment on the use of Tamoxifen to soften the nodule of Peronies much obliged

This drug, used primarily in breast cancer for its interference with estrogen receptors, has been used in the treatment of PD though there is no placebo-controlled data confirming its effectiveness. MG

I’ve recently noticed some hard lumps (4 or 5) towards the base of my penis, on the bottom (1), right (rest) and top (1) (as you look down). I’ve also noticed a degree of curvature to the left ( as you look down), the curve commencing opposite the lumps. I’ve seen my GP and he’s referred me to a urologist, but in the meantime, does this sound like Peyronie’s? I’m confused because the lumps are on the opposite side of the penis to the curve. The curve, at present, I would say is around 10-15 degrees.

Yes this sounds like PD. MG

I am a 50 year-old diabetic. I have been a diabetic for 4 years now. I was having problems getting erections for about a year but masturbated anyway. About 8 months ago it became easier to get an erection but I noticed my penis was slightly bent. It has gotten worse and the bend is now nearly 90 degrees. I spoke with my Dr. and he said to take vitamin E. He said a urologist would only suggest the same thing. I take a 1000 IU capsule 2 times a day and have been for 7 months. In addition to being diabetic, I also have been taking Lipitor for 3 years. Could any of these factors be a cause of my P.D.? Is there anything else I can take or do to decrease the bend in my penis? I read somewhere that in many cases it goes away after about 18 months, but mine is just getting worse.

I would suggest you limit vitamin E to 400 IU daily. PD is slightly more common in diabetics, though I don't think lipitor is a factor. Based on the severe curvature you have developed, I would not expect your condition to resolve spontaneously. MG

I have a slight curvature in my penis on the right but it is bent downward ( about 45d) since I started masturbating. I donot have any lumps nor do I feel any pain during erection. I am sure this would be a case of congenital curvature coz this has not developed overnight. Will I be able to have sound sex. I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend, she did not complain of any severe pains. My penis sometimes slips out of her vagina while we are having sex. Moreover when she sits on my penis (not insertion) with my pants on I feel pain.

45 degrees of downward congenital curvature is usually associated with slight sexual difficulty. If this is the case, you should see a urologic surgeon with expertise in reconstruction to discuss the possibility of a nesbit procedure. MG

I’ve just recently found this website and found it to be extremely helpful. I’m a 45 year old and I’ve had PD for a little over a year now. I went to a urologist in my home town but he was mostly unhelpful. He told me to take vitamin e and then perscribed Viagra, neither of which helped. I’m very interested in the Collagenase clinical trials. Is there a way to volunteer to be in any of this testing?

Probably so - when I have information about the proposed clinical trial, I will post it here. MG

I am 68 years old. About eight years ago I contracted the disease. After about a year, I went through a series of Verapamil injections for six months. There was no sign of improvement. I have a left bend of about 45-60 degrees. I have never experienced any pain. I have trouble having intercourse because of the crevature. I asked my urologist about an operation and his experience. He said he does 2-3 per year. At this point I am uncomfortable with having him do a surgery. I asked him about Collagenase and he showed little enthusism for it. I have not been treated for five years. Would you suggest surgery? Would you suggest another course of treatment? I am in Cincinnati. Is there any goup that has better experience with the procedure or the treatment of this disease?

You are wise to seek someone with more experience. There are resources for referral below in this forum. MG

Hi i think i might have PD or a congenital curve and was thinking about using penis traction to try and correct the curve. I was wondering if you could tell me if penis traction actually works to correct the curve or not?

We don't have sufficient evidence now, but Dr. Levine in Chicago is currently running a study to answer this important question. MG

I've had PD since age 13 and am now 63. I didn't know it was a disease until the Clinton affair, and didn't know it was treatable until now. There was never any pain, only the severe downward bend, which only added to the fun for most of my wild years. The bend has disappeared now, but I've lost a third to a half of my length in the last three years.

I think you probably have congenital curvature. In some cases the curvature can put enough stress on the tissue to induce secondary Peyronies. If this causes scarring opposite the bend, it may actually straighten the penis - but with shortening. Sort of a natural nesbit effect. MG

I am the webmaster of the Peyronie’s Disease Institute website, at www.peyronies-disease-help.com This is an Alternative Medicine website that offers a holistic therapy concept for the management of PD. Currently, this website lists your organization on its forum directory page. You may view your link on our website at http://peyronies-disease-help.com/peyronies-forum-directory.html

Thank you. MG

I am 34 year old and went to my general physician over a year ago with what I have now discovered to PD I explained to them the knot or lump on both sides of my penis. I recently had a vasectomy and decided to ask my Urologist about the condition on my follow up visit. I explained that (More recently)at the head of of my Penis I have a slight indention equal on both sides(not curve) just a decrease in girth during erection. My Urologist suggested I take Vitamin E but now after reading this site I wonder since its been 10 months have I waited to long?

It's still worth a try. MG

June 2007

about 6 months ago I noticed that when I get an erection, the penis bends severly to the left about half way down and is quite painful. I find no evidence of any scaring anywhere on the penis. I do not masturbate. Prognosis?

If the bend is severe, the chance this will go away on its own is lesss than 30%. MG

what holds the most promise in your estimation? I have suffered with this condition for three or four years, with a huge loss in volume and a near 90 degree bend...surgery has always seemed a bad option to me, painful and impractical and awkward with my career requirements, and I have tried several alternative therapies, with no or very limited success. My wife is very understanding, but this has affected my psyche in ways that are not always evident, even to me. What about transdermal electomotive administration of verapamil and dexamethasone? Do you know about the process and is it worth investigating?

Electromotive treatment is not anymore effective than any of the existing medical therapies. With a 90 degree bend and 4 years duration, I would not expect you to respond very well to any of them. MG

At present my Doctor has me on 40 mg of Lipitor per day. My question is, can Neprinol be taken along with Lipitor?

I know of no contraindication, but would recommend you check with your pharmacist. MG

If a mechanical stretching decice was used in conjunction with a vaccum pumping device and an agent that helped to block the formation of scar tissue, would it help reduce the affects of an already present PD condition? It seems a stretching device could help stretch the scar tissue and improve elasticity slightly (though what damage to the tissues has already been done), and the pumping device could help draw blood in and around the scars. Obviously whatever agent is used to prevent further damage would have work pretty well. Also, after the FDA is done with their trials, how does one become a candidate of the Collagenase trials set to begin soon?

Mechanical stretching may prove to have a role in the treatment of PD, particularly in conjunction with collagenase. At present, trials are planned for early '08. When I have more details I will announce them on this site. MG

I was diagnosed with Peyronies about 5 years ago. Do you think there would be any benefit to my starting Vitamin E medication at this point?

Yes, it may help to stabilize the condition. It has been used for many years in the treatment of PD, despite the lack of effectiveness when compared to placebo. MG

I am a 60 year old male who recently completed 3 years of treatment for bladder stones and, ultimately, BPH, for which I underwent the TURP procedure. This resulted in the utilization of catheters four times in the 3 year period. Following the TURP in 4/06, developed Peyronie's condition within several months. Was prescribed Colchicine and Probenecid but was discontinued after a month due to digestive side effects and lack of improvement. Is there any research on use of nattokinase and serrapeptase on this condition (sold as Neprinol)?

Multiple urethral instrumentation has been associated with PD. There is no good research on either of those two products. MG

I am 29 years old and the first signs of PD appeared 6-10 months ago. I've been seeing an urologist after I found a hard raisin-sized lumps on both sides of my penis. I have no significant curvature (but slightly curving to the left). He said it was peyronies plaque, and started treatment with injections of verapamil directly in to the plaque. I did this 5 times and then he said we should wait to see what happens. During the treatment the lumps grew to be more a big lumps "in the middle" of the base. After the treatment it got slightly smaller and less painful, but now its growing again. Tha plaque is now approx 1by 2cm (?) and goes the base of the penis and in to my body. It sometimes appears to be like a ring, not unlike someting you would have on the wine-bottle.The treatment ended in april-may. I'm going back to the doctor by the end of june. Lately I have experienced that the base of penis has a significantly smaller diameter than the rest of the erection. This makes the base of the erection soft and flexible, and this is a problem... It is not very painful to have an erection but it is not pleasant either. The "non-erected" part is about 2 cm long, The rest erects ok, but not as hard as before. Is there any chance to reverse this defect without surgery? Is E-vitamins the best medicine, or should I ask for any prescription-drug? What are my prognoses for getting back my "old penis"?

If you haven't been on colchicine 0.6 mg three times a day, it would be worth a try. You will probably recover your full function, though there may be some permanent physical changes in the penis. MG

I have been diagnosed with PD. Since this is not a very common situation in men, I did not think that I would find anyone in are who would be able to treat it, I was correct. I have been sent to a Urologist in Boston who, after our appointment, agreed to help treat me with a series of injections - I believe he said that they were Vargas injections. Not sure if I have the right name as so much went by me at once His intention is to contain the pain from a 120+ degree angle until the curve stabilizes. After which, I assume that surgery would take place. Is this the accepted method in todays treatment of PD?

That would have been verapamil injections. The approach is correct, some kind of medical therapy to get to a stable point, then the option of surgery if the deformity at that time precludes normal sexual activity. MG

1. Urea: Have their been any studies on the use of either urea injections into the pelile plaques or topical urea via DMSO delivery? The biochemistry books say urea can denature & soften collagen. Urea has been used commonly for some skin conditions & for some rare eye problems. 2. Heat: The biochemistry books state that mild heat ( no specific temp is mentioned) or alkaline solutions will convert collagen to elastin. Are these possible therapy options (or research options) that could be used on penile plaques to soften them without killing the normal tissue cells in the penis? Possible heating modalities are heating pads, baths, radiofrequency, or ultrasound. It is hard to find references on what are the safe temperature & pH limits for penile tissue.

Ultrasound has been used, though not as a heat source. I believe that urea can only be used topically - I don't know to what extent it will penetrate the skin. MG

A short description of my case: I (49) always had a straight penis. Three years ago I had pretty rough sex (from behind). I did not feel any pain or hear a "knack" however. When I masturbated the next day I realized that I had an appx. 40% curve to the upper left. I went to an urologist two days later who said he could have done something would I have come the day it happened. - I tried Vitamine E for two months, but stopped when it got negative press in the papers (possible side effects on the heart). - My condition has not changed since then. Still curved to the upper left, no pain, can get an erection. It is not as good as before though. - My question: is there still a chance for improvement by taking medicine? Do you recommend surgery? Wait for FDA to approve new medicine?

After 3 years, this is unlikely to improve on its own. With a curve of only 40 degrees, a nesbit procedure would be an option if the deformity really intereferes with sex. If not, it may be wise to await the approval of new medications. MG

I am 63 years old. I had a bend in my penis starting about 12 to 14 years ago. It was about 45 degrees. The pain passed after awhile. I read about PD and seen that it might corrected itself after awhile. I did nothing. To the best of my memory, the curve never got better. But I began to lose my erection. It slowly went away to nothing. I have not had intercourse in at least five or six years. I have checked and there is no erection at night. The size of the penis has shrunk steadily. To the point now that there is almost nothing there except skin. I do not have blocked arteries according to my cardiologist.

See a urologist about the impotence problem. You may be a candidate for implant surgery. MG

May 2007

My husband was diagnosed with Peyronies about 4 years ago at the age of 26. This came on suddenly with a strong bend and a lump under the skin of his penis. His curve during erections is curved into his stomach, he has lost rigidity but has never had any pain. His penis has narrowed greatly and is thinning more. I know this is bothersome to him. I read on the site that this is usually present in older men and I'm wondering if Peyronies starts at this younger age is there a possiblity that it will be worse when older, or is this disease very slow and stable. He saw a doctor 4 years ago that just looked at him, no testing was done and he said it appeared to be Peyronies, he has never seen a urologist. Do you think a Urologist is necessary? My final question does Peyronies ever reverse or get better? He has never done any treatment and it causes me no discomfort.

It would not be a bad idea for him to be checked by a urologist. Fortunately, the chances of spontaneous improvement are better for men in his age group than for older patients. MG

You’ve commented several times on the trials soon to be done on Collagenase for treatment of PD. Can you update the status of trials, availability of that med, dosage recommendation, and its trade name if it is now available?

Clinical trials of this drug (to be conducted by Auxilium Inc.) may be starting late this summer. Currently it is an investigational drug and is unavailable outside of FDA sanctioned clinical trials. MG

I am a 68-year old, very athletic (tennis, cycling, weightlifting, treadmill, etc.). About 4 years ago, I detected a notch at the base of my penis on the left side and experienced a slight pull to the left with a full erection. It was not painful and did not interfere with intercourse. As time went on, over the course of six months or so, the pull to the left became more severe, but my penis remained straight. Then it started to curve and twist in a counterclock-wise direction during erection. It was then that I started researching PD. I had been a regular consumer of Vitamin E, so I tried applying Vitamin E liquid (from the capsule) directly to my penis. I did not see any noticeable change over a three month period, so I discontinued it. I waited another year as I watched my penis become more misshapen to the point where it is currently (bent at 90 degrees to the left from the base and flush against my body. In a relaxed state, it is very shrunken and twists about 45 degrees to the left making it very difficult to urinate standing because I never know which direction the stream will go until the flow starts. I am still able to sustain an erection and able to twist my penis 90 degrees to the right to make it curve upward without any pain, but intercourse with my wife is impossible. I have seen two urologists with photographs to show my condition. Both have suggested the Nesbitt procedure, but I hesitate to make the decision for surgery. I am currently on a Coumadin regime for AFib due to an artificial aortic valve. From the pictures of PD I've seen, I've never seen such a severe curvature. Do you think I may have torn an attaching ligament at the base of my penis or possibly have a blocked artery from all my cycling activity? Thanks for your response.

This degree of deformity does occur in Peyronies disease - I think that is what you have. Cycling - induceded arterial injury would create great difficulty obtaining a firm erection, so I do not think that is the case. MG

My 18-year old son had surgery four weeks ago. His penis is bent to the right about 45 degrees but only with an erection. After surgery, the bend is about the same but now it looks almost like a sharper corner where the incision was made on the left side. While at the hospital, the doctor told me they artificially aroused him and it was straight then. He is very upset that this will all turn out to be a chronic condition and can't be fixed. He's very frustrated.

I assume that based on his age, your son's surgery was for correction of congenital curvature. Usually the penis should be fairly straight soon after surgery. If it is not, and does not improve, I would suggest he be evaluated by a surgeon who specializes in reconstructive surgery. MG

Hi, I'm 19 years old. Ever since I can remember my penis has been bent in a downward motion. There is a semi-dark ring around my penis and when flacid, it indents all around my penis at that spot causing an hour glass shape.. The bent is a dramatic fall right at the middle of the penis about 45 degrees, maybe more. I feel no pain, I've never had sex. What should I do? What does this sound like?

Sounds like congenital curvature. If this presents problems when you become sexually active, seek the opinion of a urologic surgeon with this type of experience. MG

I was diagnosed with PD about 18 months ago and was offered surgery last month after having been on Vitamin E for a year, Nattokinase and Serrapeptase for the last 4 months with no effect (Based on photographs pre and post consultation). At my pre-op discussion the surgeon proposed the Nesbitt procedure but after debate he agreed that in my case the significant narrowing at the base caused by the plaque would remain and I was convinced that any benefit from straightening would negligible in allowing me penentrative sex, due to the collapsing of the penis at the narrow point regardless of a full erection and the mental issues. My surgeon said that the only other option was a 'Lee' Procedure which would remove the plaque and replace with other tissue, but it would take 3-4hrs. I have been unable to find anything out about any Lee procedure.

I think he means the Lue procedure, developed by Dr. Tom Lue at University of California San Francisco. He is correct that based on the narrowed segment, some type of graft surgery would be required. MG

You recommend verapamil or colchicine. Are there reasons for preferring one or the other? I have a few discrete nodules, but the bulk of the problem seems (to me) to be more diffuse fibrous tissue that started just behind the glans and has been growing steadily back along both sides for five months now, causing shortening and some curvature. Hardness of the tissue (or maybe it's surrounding inflammation?) waxes and wanes daily. I've been taking Potaba for a couple of weeks, and Vitamin E for several months. My condition is worsening rapidly, and I'd like to seek additional treatment as soon as possible. Of verapamil and colchicine, is one better for my version of PD? Can they be combined, with each other and/or with Potaba?

Yes they can be combined. For diffuse scarring (opposed to well-localized disease) oral therapy such as colchicine would probably be better than local injection with verapamil. MG

Thank you for this site. I have classic PD. In 50's, married 25 years. My wife only has sex on the top and I am fairly sure that my PD is from coital trauma. Can continuing to have this sort of sex with my wife make my PD worse?

If the PD has been present for > 18 months, it would not be expected to worsen. MG

Have you heard of a link between Peyronie’s and HPV or any other STDs?

I have seen cases following severe herpes outbreak, but know of no published confirmatory reports. MG

Can Peyronie's disease be caused by the use of a penis pump? Also if I already had a mild case of Peyronie's disease, what type of effect could using such a device have on me? I ask because recently I made the mistake of using a pump for the first & last time, since then I have had some pain & discomfort.

Vacuum pumps have been used to treat PD, as a form of physical therapy or stretching, with mixed results. If left on for too long they may cause discomfort, but would not be expected to cause PD. MG

I have on the underside of the penis on the left and on the right side near the corpus spongiosum two relativley hard plaques, which are about 2 cm long and maybe 3 mm thick. They start just below the glans of the penis and go parallel straigt down the penis. At the beginning i have had pain when i have had an errection. Now the pain is gone. My penis is not bend. I visited two urologists and both say it is IPP. What do you think?

These do sound to me like IPP (Induratio Penis Plastica, another name for PD). If you have neither bending nor pain I would suggest staying on vitamin E with expectation of eventual resolution. MG

I am interested in treatment others with this condition have tried and their degree of success or lack of success.

I will publish the reports I receive from patients. MG

I have have this condition for nearly 4 years. I have tried vitamin e since the onset and still take one 400 i.u. per day. I took Potaba for couple of years to no avail. I had the collagene injections (3) and they did not work. I am into my 3rd month of verapamil 15% at cost of $750/3 month supply. I have not seen any improvement for anything. It may even be worse. My doctor suggested I obtain an erection and manually try to bend the penis back with expectation of breaking up the scar tissue. I began taking alprazolam 1mg/3 times per day for anxiety. Shortly after taking that medication, I noticed the onset of peyronies. It hurt to have an erection for first time or two but does not hurt any longer. I have about a 45 degree upward curviture and inhibits my sexual performance physicaly and mentally. I am 59 years old and very healthy. What is your recomendation? Is the manual bending causing more damage or is there a chance it will help?

After 4 years I doubt the manual bending will help. MG

I have about a 2 shortening and a lateral right bend, that is progressing even while taking vitamins, and medicine. At what degree of lateral bending will intercourse become difficult? Can the size of ones partner contribute to peyronies and make sex more difficult?

More than 45 degrees usually produces difficulty, especially with a small partner. MG

I am 54. After reading all I could find on this, i have concluded this is the issue I have with about an 80% bend up plus 30% to the left, I have an appointment with a qualified urologist, in 3 weeks should I take any pictures and take them along? I have had this for about 4 months my GP said it was no big deal and nothing could be done anyway, glad I found some hope even though it is not much.

Yes, pictures will help. MG

I've seen ads about Neprinol. Is it a good alternative to treat PD?

There is no peer-reviewed data on its results. MG

My husband started using Viagra on occasion over the last 8 months. About 6 months ago, he developed Peyronies @ about 90 degrees. Could the Viagra been a cause of this?

Studies on phosphodiesterase inhibitors (Viagra, Levitra, Cialis) have show they may have (theoretical) benefits to patients with PD. I doubt the medication was the cause - quite possibly your husband's original erectile dysfunction was due to early PD, which became more apparent when the erections were improved with medication. MG

I have had PD for almost a year, 62 years old. two visits to Urolugist, with wait & see. They have advised a vaccuum devise, using 30 minutes a day, to increase blood flow to plaque, and try to straighten curvature of almost 90 degrees. have only used several days, and have noticed some improvement. Is this new.

The physical stretching provided by a vacuum pump may be of benefit - studies on the effects of mechanical stretching or traction are underway currently. MG

I'm 17 and have had a significant congenital curvature for as long as I can remember. It is roughly 25-35 downwards and occurs over a 1-1.5 inch area. I've noticed a couple of small-ish indentations on the bottom of the corpus spongiosum (within this 1-1.5 inch area) when it is really hard or when I physicaly hold my penis straight. I'm not sure whether or not its PD, as there is no pain or bleeding and I've had it for a long time, but the indentations have gotten me suspicious. I'm planning on taking Vitamin E soon. Would you recommend vit. e or something else? And if it is PD, I'm looking at alternatives to the nesbit treatment like injections, etc.

The only effective treatment for significant congenital curvature is surgery. MG

My partner is 44 years old. in the past year, i have noticed a change in his erection / penis appearance / sexual performance. he is continually swearing that he is "shrinking". he also seems to have a bit of a curvature that seems to be gradually getting worse. although these issues seem key... the thing that bothers me is his rigidity and position while erect. as most men seem to become "horizontal" when erect and standing-up, his penis continues to hang straight-down (vertical) despite his erection. he has also seemed to loose rigidity. he seems to feel this is bothing his sexual performance. it just seems weird that he is 'erect', but is soft at the base of the shaft, causing him to hang down.

This well could be PD, have him see a urologist. MG

April 2007

I am a 52 yr old male, married, whose wife refused to have sex anymore about two years ago. I masturbate on average once a week and have had no unusual events. About 2-3 weeks ago I noticed an upward curve starting from behind the head of my penis. I'd say it is slight at 15 degrees. I take a daily dose of naprosyn 500mg for headaches/arthritis as needed and a daily protonix 40mg for acid reflux. Can not having regular vaginal sex contribute to this problem? Can I continue to masterbate with no ill effects?

I don't think lack of vaginal sex caused this, unless masturbation has been exceedingly rough. If it isn't, I would not expect any ill effects. MG

I 've had peyronies for two years now ..the pain has gone away and severity of the curve isn't as bad as it was but since but since I was diagnosed with PD I've noticed that my ejaculations are much weaker and smaller .Does PD affect how much one ejaculates ?

No, it does not. MG

I am 41 years old, and about 4 years ago (following an episode of straining caused by constipation), I noticed a slight left curvature of my penis when flaccid (it is not too severe when erect) and a slightly raised band near the base of the shaft (on the right side) measuring approx. 5mm wide by 2cm long. It is not usually too painful, however erections sometimes are slightly uncomfortable and there are times when I cough or sneeze that I can feel a sharp pain in this area. Recently, erections have become weaker, which prompted me to see a urologist. He said there was a 90% chance that it was not peyronies.