Peyronie’s disease is a condition in which scar tissue—called plaque—develops inside the penis, causing it to bend or curve during erections. While some curve is natural, Peyronie’s causes a significant, often painful bend that can make sex difficult or even impossible.
It mostly affects men, especially those over 40, though it can occur at any age.
Common Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease
•Noticeable curve or bend in the penis during erection
•Pain during erections or sex
•Lumps or hardened areas under the skin of the penis
•Erectile dysfunction (ED)
•Shortened penis or narrowing in one area
•Difficulty with sexual intercourse
Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly.
What Causes Peyronie’s Disease?
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but possible factors include:
•Trauma or injury to the penis (during sex, sports, or accidents)
•Repeated minor injuries over time
•Genetics – it may run in families
•Autoimmune response – the body attacks healthy tissue by mistake
How Is It Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider may:
•Examine the penis for plaques or curvature
•Measure the degree of bending during an erection (sometimes using injection-induced erection)
•Use ultrasound to view scar tissue or check blood flow
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity and whether the condition is getting worse.
•Oral medications (e.g. pentoxifylline – may reduce scar tissue formation)
•Injections (e.g. collagenase Clostridium histolyticum/Xiaflex – breaks down plaque)
•Penile traction therapy (stretching device to reduce curvature over time)
2. Surgery (for severe or persistent cases)
•Plication – shortens the longer side of the penis
•Grafting – replaces scarred tissue with a graft
•Penile implants – help with both curvature and erectile dysfunction
Can Peyronie’s Go Away on Its Own?
In mild cases, the disease may stabilize or improve without treatment. However, it often progresses, so early diagnosis and management are important.
Final Thoughts
Peyronie’s disease can cause physical discomfort and emotional stress, but it’s treatable. If you notice unusual curvature, pain, or trouble with erections, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. With the right care, most men can restore function and improve quality of life.