Editing Peyronie's Disease (2015) (section)

== Background ==

* '''Definition of Peyronie’s disease (PD):'''
*# '''Acquired penile abnormality'''
*# '''Characterized by fibrosis of the tunica albuginea'''
*# '''Which MAY be accompanied by (4) Peyronie’s Disease Erectile Dysfunction:'''
*##'''Pain'''
*##'''Deformity'''
*##'''Erectile dysfunction'''
*##'''Distress'''
* '''Pathophysiology: inflammatory disorder of the tunica albuginea'''
** '''Microvascular trauma to the penile shaft associated with penile buckling in the erect or semi-erect state secondary to sexual activity is thought to be the most common inciting event,''' though most men cannot recall a specific event
* '''Natural history: PD is characterized by symptoms with a variable course, some of which may improve or resolve without treatment in some patients'''.
** '''Pain will usually resolve over time without intervention; curvature, is much less likely to improve and may require treatment if it compromises sexual function and/or is the source of patient or partner distress'''
* PD can have a profound negative impact on men’s QoL. Many men with PD experience emotional distress, depressive symptoms, and relationship difficulties.