UW Health's urology program offers treatment for men with Peyronie's disease.

 

Peyronie's disease is the development of a curvature in the penis. The condition can develop slowly over time.

 

A slight natural curve to the erect penis is usually normal, but curvature that causes pain and/or difficulty with intercourse warrants an evaluation by a urologist. Peyronie's disease can be a emotionally difficult condition for a man and his partner to experience.

 

Causes of Peyronie's Disease

 

There are different reasons why men may develop Peyronie's disease, but the majority of the time the cause is unknown. Typically, men in their mid-50's are most affected. Causes of Peyronie's disease can include:

• Injury to the penis 
• Bands of hard scar tissue in the penis 
• Autoimmune disorder (rheumatoid arthritis or lupus) 
• Inherited collagen abnormality 
• Medications (blood pressure and heart medications)

A hard, fibrous layer of benign (noncancerous) scar tissue develops under the skin on the upper or lower side of the penis. The scar tissue is formed by thickened layers of soft tissue in the penis. When the penis is erect, the scar tissue does not expand normally and pulls the affected area off at an angle, causing a curved penis. Scar tissue on the top of the shaft (most common) causes the penis to bend upward, and scar tissue on the underside causes it to bend downward.

 
Symptoms of Peyronie's Disease