PRIAPISM

Priapism is a persistent, unwanted erection of the penis that is often extremely painful. Priapism may present in the following ways:

Stuttering

There may be repeated, reversible. painful erections occurring over several hours (the penis becomes erect, the erection goes away, then becomes erect again, etc.). There are no problems with sexual functioning.

Prolonged

There may be a prolonged, painful erection that does not go away for more than several hours. This can last up to several days or weeks. This type of priapism needs attention by a doctor. Severe priapism can lead to partial or complete impotence. Sometimes a blood transfusion and liberal analgesics are given during the episode.

Persistent

There maybe a persistent penile erection that may last for weeks to years, This type of priapism is usually painless. It usually develops after a long episode of prolonged or stuttering priapism (as described above), Sexual functioning is often impaired.

Specific causes are unknown. Acute episodes often begin during sleep or following sexual activity, hut frequently there is no identifiable event or cause. There is no current therapy to prevent episodes of priapism. There is no way to predict who will develop priapism and impotence. Those individuals experiencing repeated episodes are encouraged to avoid long periods of bladder distention, dehydration, and extended sexual activities.

 

Origin and Distribution of Sickle Cell Disease, Genetics, Sickle Red Blood Cells, Infections ,Splenic Sequestration, Pain, Chest Syndrome, Aplastic Crisis, Strokes, Gall Stones and Jaundice, Growth and Development, Retinopathy, Priapism