What causes Peyronie’s disease?
- Peyronie's disease is a localized connective tissue disorder that affects the tunica albuginea of the penis1-3
- It is thought to occur after injury or repetitive microtrauma1-3
- Abnormal scar tissue develops into a plaque under the skin of the penis, causing erectile curvature1-3
Why many may go undiagnosed
Because of the embarrassment involved with Peyronie's disease, men may not seek help, leaving the condition undiagnosed.6
*Based on a survey of about 7,700 U.S. adult men with a PD diagnosis, PD-related symptoms, or a history of seeking treatment for the condition.2
92% of men with Peyronie's disease did not receive that diagnosis the first time they saw an HCP for penile symptoms1
HCP=healthcare professional.
Peyronie's disease is a distinct disease that requires a separate diagnosis and treatment. Because it is not likely to go away on its own and may even get worse, you can help your patients by screening for it.7
Screening considerations for Peyronie's disease
Ask your patients about erectile curvature, because they may not ask you6
Clinicians should engage in a diagnostic process to document the signs and symptoms that characterize Peyronie's disease. The minimum requirements for this examination are a careful history and a physical exam of the genitalia (to assess for palpable abnormalities of the penis).8
Other conditions may be present in patients with Peyronie's disease
Peyronie's disease is a distinct condition. Treatment of Peyronie's disease does not cover or imply treatment of these conditions.
When screening, take into consideration your patient's Bother as well
What is the Bother domain score?
- Clinical trials for
XIAFLEX® evaluated the Bother domain score, which is a composite of the following patient-reported items: concern about erection pain, erection appearance, and impact of Peyronie's disease on intercourse and on frequency of intercourse13,14
Why is it important?
- Patients with erectile curvature as low as 30 degrees may have similar Bother to patients with higher degrees of curvature14