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Peyronie's Disease (Penile Curvature)

A connective tissue disorder causing curvature and pain during erection due to fibrotic plaque formation in the tunica albuginea of the penis.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Peyronie's Disease (Penile Curvature)?

Peyronie's disease is a chronic connective tissue disorder characterized by the formation of a fibrous plaque (hard scar tissue) in the tunica albuginea covering the penile shaft. Because the plaque tissue lacks elasticity, the penis shows curvature, shortening, or deformity (hourglass appearance, indentation) during erection. It affects approximately 3-9% of adult men and is most common between ages 50-60.

The disease is divided into two phases. The acute (inflammatory) phase lasts 6-18 months and is characterized by pain, progressive curvature, and plaque formation. In the chronic (stable) phase, pain decreases and curvature and deformity stabilize. Underlying causes include repeated microtrauma, genetic predisposition (association with Dupuytren's contracture), diabetes, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Evaluation of the disease is important for erection quality and sustainability of sexual intercourse. Plaque size, curvature angle, and erectile function are determined through physical examination, photographic assessment, and penile Doppler ultrasound when needed.

Symptoms

Penile curvature during erection (upward, downward, or sideways)
Palpable hard plaque or nodule in the penile shaft
Pain during erection (prominent in the acute phase)
Shortening of penile length
Hourglass, notch, or constriction appearance during erection
Difficulty or inability with sexual intercourse
Erectile dysfunction and associated psychological impact

Risk Factors

Men aged 50-60 years
Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
Dupuytren's contracture (palmar fascial connective tissue disease)
History of penile trauma (bending during intercourse)
Family history of Peyronie's disease
Cardiovascular disease and hypertension
Smoking

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • New-onset pain during erection
  • Palpable hardness or plaque in the penile shaft
  • Curvature or deformity developing during erection
  • Curvature interfering with intercourse (>30 degrees)
  • Onset of psychological impact and relationship problems

Treatment Methods

01
Observation and follow-up: in mild cases and in stable phase if quality of life is not affected
02
Oral therapy: pentoxifylline, L-carnitine, and colchicine (limited efficacy)
03
Intralesional collagenase (Clostridium histolyticum) injection: FDA approved for significant curvature
04
Intralesional verapamil or interferon injections
05
Surgical plication (Nesbit, modified Nesbit): corrects curvature by shortening the contralateral side
06
Plaque excision and grafting ± penile prosthesis: in advanced cases with concomitant severe ED

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.