Evaluating intralesional methylprednisolone injections for active phase Peyronie’s disease.

This study was carried out to assess the effectiveness of methylprednisolone (MP; Medrol) injections in treating the active phase of Peyronie’s disease (PD). The authors concluded that low dose MP for active phase PD is a promising and safe treatment option. 

PD is a condition resulting from fibrous scar tissue that develops on the penis and causes curved, painful erections. This condition becomes more common with age. Sexual function can be negatively affected. The mainstay of treatment is the surgical removal of the fibrous scar tissue. However, this cannot be carried out during the active phase of the disease. The active phase is when the plaques form and is very painful.

MP is a corticosteroid drug used to reduce inflammation. It is inexpensive and easy to obtain. Until now, MP has not been investigated in treating PD when it is in its active phase.

There were 48 patients included in this study. All patients had active phase PD. They were treated for 8 weeks with weekly injections of 40 mg MP into the largest curve of the penis (into the scar tissue). 

72.9% of patients saw a decrease in scar tissue after treatment. The average scar size was 13.6 mm before treatment. This decreased to 10.8 mm after treatment. 16.7% of patients saw a decrease in curvature of the penis after treatment. 

Erectile function and PD-related pain were improved after treatment. 

The authors concluded that the use of low dose MP into the penis is effective for improving symptoms during the active phase of PD. 

This study had a low number of patients. This was not a placebo-controlled trial. Also, there was a short follow-up time for this trial.  

If you have concerns regarding PD treatment, please discuss this with your doctor.