1. Peyronie’s disease is characterized by a plaque, or hard lump, that forms within the penis.
2. In severe cases, the hardened plaque reduces flexibility, causing pain and forcing the penis to bend or arc during erection.
3. The plaque itself is benign, or noncancerous. It is not a tumor. Peyronie’s disease is not contagious and is not known to be caused by any transmittable disease.
4. Treatments for Peyronie’s disease include oral medicines, injections, and surgery.
5. Medical experts suggest waiting 1 year or longer before attempting to correct Peyronie’s disease surgically.