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Peyronie's Disease Overview:
Peyronies Disease,
sometimes called Induratio Penis Plastica (IPP), is
a change in normal structures of the penis,
transforming functional portions of penile tissue
into scar tissue. This is a wound
healing process gone awry somewhat like keloids.
Once started, the process spreads across undamaged tissue,
turning it to scar tissue. Onset of Peyronie's
Disease is characterized by varying forms of
deformity of the penis. Most often, this is
manifest as a bent penis or curved penis, but it is
also often presented as an indentation in the penis,
loss of penis length, or loss of penis girth. Often
combinations of these penile deformities are
present. Another characteristic includes lumps or
nodules on the penis. All of these are caused by
abnormal scaring of the tunica albuginea or the
smooth shaft of the penis that contains the spongy corpora cavernosa. As the spongy corpora cavernosa fills
with blood during an erection, the scar tissue or
plaque on the tunica albuginea prevents areas
of the penis from expanding. This is similar to the
way a balloon would respond if a piece of scotch
tape was placed on it then it was inflated. This
results in the visible deformity of curves, dents,
bends, or loss of size associated with the erect
penis of the Peyronies Disease patient. These
deformities may be mild, or may progress to a degree
that makes intercourse impossible. Peyronies
Disease patients may or may not have associated
pain. This penis pain, if present, can range from
slight to severe.
Why Me? Much like
with any limiting disease, this is a difficult
question to answer in either a clinically or a
philosophically satisfying manner. We do know
that significant trauma can cause
Peyronie's Disease.
This contributes to a theory that undetected
micro-trauma contributes to much of the remaining
Peyronie's Disease.
The truth is, no one knows. We do know there seems
to be a genetic component with some higher incidence
in families. There also seems to be a higher
incidence of males of Northern European descent with
this disorder. It also has some commonality
with a group of
conditions called "superficial fibromatoses" which
includes Dupuytren's contracture, frozen shoulder
and Ledderhose disease.
It most commonly strikes men between the ages of 45
and 65 although many younger men are also effected.
In our
Peyronies
Disease Support Group,
we have more than a few men that are in their early
twenties and men in their late seventies. In
fact, our oldest member is in his late seventies and
has had Peyronies Disease since his early twenties.
The Impact: Along with pain and/or
physical deformity, those dealing with this disease,
typically suffer varying degrees and manifestations
of psychological issues.
Intimacy can be lost.
Relationships can be strained, often more from the
psychological component than the actual physical
component. If not dealt with, all of this can
become a self-perpetuating cycle. Both Peyronies
Disease and the psychological components of the
disease require an early pro-active approach
with open communication to
assure the best outcome.
Our Role at the Peyronies Disease
Society is to provide support that works. We do
this through our
Peyronies Disease forum. Here you will
find discussion and information on all the
challenges and options associated with the many
facets of Peyronies Disease. We offer informative
articles and we can direct you to other resources. We
offer this support in an informal environment that
maximizes communication. Ours is a lightly
moderated forum. We provide enough structure to
assure dignity, confidentiality, and easy access of
information. We allow enough freedom for relaxed,
open conversation.
Come tell us what's on your mind. Ask a question,
share an experience, or sit quietly and listen to
the members of your forum |
