Priapism
Painful, persistent, prolonged erection of the penis not related to sexual stimulation. Two broad categories low-flow (most common) and high-flow. Low-flow priapism due to haematological disease, malignant infiltration of the corpora cavernosa with malignant disease or drugs. Painful because the corpora are ischaemic. High-flow priapism—due to perineal trauma, which creates an arteriovenous fistula. Painless. Diagnosis is usually obvious from the history and examination of the erect, tender penis (in low-flow priapism). Characteristically, the corpora cavernosa are rigid and the glans is flaccid. Examine the abdomen for evidence of malignant disease and perform a digital rectal examination to examine the prostate and check anal tone. Sleep Medicine: http://zasleep.blogspot.com GP Medicine: http://samedical.blogspot.com SA Dermatorlogy: http://sadermatology.blogspot.com SA Ophthalmology: http://saophthalmology.blogspot.com Dr Yacoob Omar Carrim