Peyronies disease is a common collagen-related disorder that affects 6-8 % of males over their lifetime. The primary protein that’s present in the tough lining of the penis is elastin, which means it’s able to stretch during an erection. Due to an abnormal inflammatory reaction, to which white men are genetically predisposed, excessive collagen (scar tissue) is deposited within the tunica albuginea of the corpse cavernosum.
As this collagen contracts over time due to myofibroblasts within the scar tissue, it results in penile curvature. The penis can curve in any direction. However, the most common is dorsally towards the patient. Once the dorsal curve extends beyond 40—45 degrees, penetration becomes difficult. Ventral curvatures are more poorly tolerated.
There is generally thought to be an inciting event that causes a bleed in the tunica albuginea of the corpus cavernosum, which starts an inflammatory process.
During this inflammatory phase, the penile plaque may become tender and is followed by progressive curvature as the plaque matures and the scarring contracts. Peyronies disease is also associated with erectile dysfunction, which is why Dr Campbell creates tailored treatment plans that manage both conditions.
Avoiding erections and intercourse will, unfortunately, not halt the progression of the plaque. Significant loss of length is often a consequence of the plaque and subsequent erectile dysfunction
