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Urological Disorders

Peyronie's Disease

What is Peyronie's disease?

Peyronie's disease is characterized by a plaque, or hard lump, that forms on the penis. It may develop on the upper or lower side of the penis in layers containing erectile tissue. The plaque often begins as a localized inflammation that may develop into a hardened scar.

Peyronie's disease was first described in 1743 by a French surgeon, François de la Peyronie. It was classified as a form of impotence. However, now impotence is recognized as one factor associated with the Peyronie's disease, but is not always present.

What causes Peyronie's disease?

Some researchers believe Peyronie's disease develops following a trauma that causes bleeding inside the penis. This trauma may explain acute cases of Peyronie's disease, but does not explain why most cases develop slowly -- or what causes the disease after no apparent traumatic event, or why some cases disappear quickly.

Generally, when the disease heals within a year or so, the plaque does not advance beyond an initial inflammatory phase. But, when the disease lasts for years, the plaque often becomes a tough fibrous tissue, and calcium deposits may form.

What are the symptoms of Peyronie's disease?

The plaque in Peyronie's disease is benign, or noncancerous.

How is Peyronie's disease often treated?

In general, the goal of treatment is to keep the patient with Peyronie's disease sexually active. Providing education about the disease and its course is often included in the treatment plan. A treatment protocol will be established by your physician based on the severity of your condition, and may include any/all of the following:


This page was last updated on: February 28, 2008.

For more information, call the University Physicians Consultation and Referral Service at 1-800-492-5538 (patients) or 1-800-373-4111 (physicians).