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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffPriapism is a prolonged erection of the penis. The unwanted, persistent erection isn't caused by sexual stimulation or arousal, and it's usually painful.
Priapism is an uncommon condition that needs immediate medical attention. Prompt treatment for priapism is usually needed to prevent tissue damage that results in the inability of the penis to become or stay erect with sexual arousal (erectile dysfunction).
Priapism is most common in boys between ages 5 and 10 years old and in men from ages 20 to 50 years.
- UAU guideline on the management of priapism. Linthicum, Md.: American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. http://www.auanet.org/content/guidelines-and-quality-care/clinical-guidelines.cfm?sub=priapism. Accessed Oct. 20, 2008.
- Burnett AL. Priapism. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/107941660-3/761898552/1445/29.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-7216-0798-6..50028-5_2004. Accessed Oct. 20, 2008.
- Cherian J, et al. Medical and surgical management of priapism. Postgraduate Medical Journal. 2006;82(964):89-94.
- Bivalacqua TJ, et al. Priapism: New concepts in the pathophysiology and new treatment strategies. Current Urology Reports. 2006;7(6):497-502.
- Monkhouse SJ, et al. Low-flow priapism needs recognition and early correct treatment. Emergency Medicine Journal. 2007;24(3):209-210.
- Burnett AL, et al. Priapism: Current principles and practice. Urology Clinics of North America. 2007;34(4):631-642, viii.
- Rogers ZR. Priapism in sickle cell disease. Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America. 2005;19(5):917-928, viii.
- Sood S, et al. Priapism associated with atypical antipsychotic medications: A review. International Clinical Psychopharmacology. 2008;23(1):9-17.
