Knowra Priapism Priapism Priapism is a prolonged penile erection that persists for hours beyond or without sexual stimulation. It can result from impaired blood drainage or abnormal blood flow and requires prompt medical assessment.
Ischemic priapism : A painful, rigid erection caused by blood becoming trapped in the corpora cavernosa, with reduced oxygen and rising acidity. This low-flow form is the common emergency subtype and can damage erectile tissue.
Penile Doppler ultrasonography : An ultrasound examination that measures blood flow in penile arteries and erectile tissues. It helps distinguish low-flow from high-flow priapism when the cause is uncertain.
Sickle cell disease : An inherited blood disorder in which abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped. Sickling can obstruct penile blood flow and trigger recurrent or prolonged erections.
Penile fibrosis : The formation of excess fibrous scar tissue within penile structures. Prolonged ischemia can injure erectile tissue and lead to fibrosis.
Stuttering priapism : Recurrent episodes of ischemic priapism, often shorter than four hours but capable of becoming prolonged. This recurrent subtype requires prevention as well as treatment of individual attacks.
Nonischemic priapism : A usually less painful, partially rigid erection caused by unregulated arterial inflow, often after pelvic or perineal trauma. This high-flow form has a different mechanism and typically less immediate tissue risk.
Corporal blood gas : A blood-gas analysis of blood aspirated from the corpora cavernosa. Low oxygen, high carbon dioxide, and acidity indicate ischemic priapism.
Erectile dysfunction medication : Drugs used to improve erectile function, including oral agents and medications injected into the penis. Some erection-inducing drugs can cause priapism, especially when doses or combinations are unsafe.
Erectile dysfunction : Persistent difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Untreated ischemic priapism can permanently impair erectile function.
Sleep-related painful erections : Repeated painful erections that occur during sleep and resolve after waking or movement. Unlike an acute priapism episode, these recurrent sleep-related events usually do not last continuously for hours.
Show all 28