Peyronie disease occurs when the penis curves during an erection. This is most often due to a scar (plaque) that forms inside the penis. This plaque changes the smooth upward curve of the erect penis to look more kinked. The penile plaque is not the same plaque that can develop in a person's arteries. And it is not cancerous.

In some people, the plaque shrinks and goes away on its own without treatment. If treatment is needed, the main goal is to ease pain and make the penis straight enough for sex. Pain is caused by an erection and the bending of the penis that follows. Peyronie disease is not contagious or caused by any transmittable disease. This means you can't catch it from others. There are different kinds of treatment. The success of these treatments varies from person to person.

Medicine is often tried for 1 to 2 years before other treatments are done. For some people, the disease will go away during this time. Your health care provider may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) to help with pain. Other medicines may also help soften and shrink the plaque in the penis. Some medicines are taken by mouth (oral). And some are rubbed on the penis. Others may be injected into the plaque (intralesional injections) to reduce pain, reduce penile curving, and improve erectile function. The injection site is often numbed before the shot. These treatments can be done in your health care provider's office. Oral medicines may also be prescribed to treat any symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED). You and your provider will talk about all your options and the possible side effects.

Other treatment options may include:

• Ultrasound therapy.
• Radiation therapy.
• Shockwave therapy.
• The delivery of a cream through the skin by using low-level electrical current (iontophoresis).
• Mechanical traction and vacuum devices.

To rule out any diseases that may be related to Peyronie disease, your provider may suggest some tests. These diseases include diabetes, hypogonadism, some connective tissue disorders like Dupuytren's disease, and autoimmune conditions like scleroderma.

Surgery is used in cases that can't be treated by other means. It may also be done for a severe curve in the penis or for severe pain that doesn't stop. Options for surgery include:

• Making a cut (incision) in the plaque to release tension. Part of the plaque is removed and replaced with a graft.
• Plication. This involves removing or pinching a small piece on the side opposite the plaque. This surgery will help straighten the penis and cancel out the curve.
• Implanting a device (prosthesis). This can straighten the penis and make it hard enough for sex.

Your health care provider may recommend an ultrasound of your penis to find out the exact size and location of the plaque. Based on an exam, your provider will discuss the risks and benefits of these treatments with you. Be sure to ask questions. Also share your expectations about the outcomes of these procedures. Think about all your options before you choose surgery.

Peyronie disease is hard to cure. Counseling may help you cope with the effects of the disease. It may help you and your partner find ways to deal with it.