What is Peyronie's Disease?
Peyronie's disease is a condition in which plaque, or hard lumps, develop slowly under the skin on the side of the penis. This plaque (scar tissue) can cause pain and the shrinking of the penis. Men with Peyronie's Disease usually suffer from sexual dysfunction as it restricts normal blood flow to the penis and makes it difficult for men to get or maintain an erection. Because this plaque is not stretchable, it will start to curve the penis every time there is an erection, causing pain, and inability to have sexual intercourse. This plaque also starts to pull on the penis, making it shrink in size, and causing humiliation, and embarrassment, that may devastate your marital, and sex life. There are two phases of Peyronie's disease, an acute phase, and a chronic phase.
The exact cause of Peyronie's disease remains unclear, though it may be caused by pelvic trauma or inflammation of the penis (due to a connective tissue disease). If you notice these symptoms, it is very imperative to come to see your physician for a physical exam, and early diagnosis and treatment.
Peyronie's Disease is very common, up to 1% of men in the USA develop Peyronie's disease. Of course to different extents.
More on this topic and the risks of dissolving the scar tissue with penile injections (such as Xiaflex) is on our Peyronie's disease page.