Priapism: Prolonged erection


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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

Priapism is a prolonged erection of the penis. The unwanted, persistent erection isn't caused by sexual stimulation or arousal, and priapism is usually painful.

Priapism is an uncommon condition that needs immediate medical attention. Prompt treatment for priapism is usually needed to prevent tissue damage that could result in the inability to get or maintain an erection (erectile dysfunction).

Priapism is most common between ages 5 and 10 in boys and ages 20 and 50 in men.

Symptoms
References
  1. Priapism. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/print/sec17/ch226/ch226j.html. Accessed March 14, 2013.
  2. AUA 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 March 14, 2013.
  3. Broderick GA, et al. Priapism: Pathogenesis, epidemiology, and management. Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2010;7:476.
  4. Burnett AL, et al. Priapism: Current principles and practice. Urology Clinics of North America. 2007;34:631.
  5. Deveci S. Priapism. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed March 14, 2013.
DS00873 June 15, 2013

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