Bulging penis

I am 58 years old and have a bulge all the way around my penis when I have an erection. It is just behind the head and causes the shaft to bend upward. It is about an inch long but not painful and there is no other dysfunction associated with this condition. What  causes this condition, is it permanent, is treatment needed and what kind of treament?

Thanks.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

You may want to consider Peyronie's disease as a diagnosis.  Peyronie's disease, a condition of uncertain cause, is characterized by a plaque, or hard lump, that forms on the penis. The plaque develops on the upper or lower side of the penis in layers containing erectile tissue. It begins as a localized inflammation and can develop into a hardened scar.  An ultrasound can be considered for further evaluation.

Researchers have injected chemical agents such as verapamil, collagenase, steroids, calcium channel blockers, and interferon alpha-2b directly into the plaques. These interventions are still considered unproven because studies included small numbers of patients.  

Peyronie's disease has been treated surgically with some success. The two most common surgical procedures are removal or expansion of the plaque followed by placement of a patch of skin or artificial material, and removal or pinching of tissue from the side of the penis opposite the plaque, which cancels out the bending effect.

A urology referral can be considered for further evaluation.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.