BERKELEY, CA (UroToday.com) - Peyronie's disease (PD) currently is and likely will remain a uniquely urologic condition. It was first described more than 250 years ago and still remains an enigma in regards to its true pathogenesis, natural history, and management.

PD is characterized by the development of a localized fibrotic plaque, predominately at a single site in the tunica albuginea (TA) of the penis. Plaque formation causes penile deformity (usually curvature), which is often accompanied by pain and/or erectile dysfunction (ED). Approximately 10 - 15% of affected men demonstrate resolution over the ensuing 12 months. The reasons for this are unknown.

Repetitive microtrauma is postulated to be the initiating factor in PD, based on anatomy, pathology, bioengineering analysis, and clinical data. Current evidence suggests that PD represents a localized aberration of the wound healing process, which may have a partial genetic basis. Further inroads into an understanding of PD will undoubtedly involve molecular investigations using animal models and human clinical specimens.

Summary of SMSNA Meeting, New York, New York, November 17 - 20, 2005
Author: Wayne J. G. Hellstrom, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Reviewed and Edited: GA Broderick

Written by Gregory A. Broderick, MD, a Contributing Editor with UroToday.

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