Medical Health Encyclopedia

Curvature of the penis


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Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive system
Male reproductive system
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Alternative Names

Peyronie's disease


Symptoms

You or your doctor may notice an abnormal hardening of the tissue below the skin, in one area along the shaft of the penis.

During erection, there may be:

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

Signs and tests

The health care provider can diagnose curvature of the penis with a physical examination. The hard plaques can be felt with or without an erection.

The doctor may use injected medications to cause an erection. Or you may provide your health care provider with pictures of the erect penis for evaluation.

An ultrasound may show the scar tissue in the penis, but it is not necessary.



Review Date: 09/03/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).




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