Cocaine-related ischemic priapism. Systematic review and presentation of a single center series

Abstract

Introduction

Ischemic priapism is a medical emergency that, if not treated, could lead to permanent erectile dysfunction. The association between cocaine and priapism is well-known; however, data on patient characteristics, treatment, and outcomes is missing.

This work aimed to answer the research question: What are the characteristics, management strategies, and erectile prognosis of patients consuming cocaine and presenting with priapism?

Methods

We conducted a systematic review according to PRISMA guidelines and described our case series.

Results

Eight studies were selected for qualitative synthesis, presenting information on ten patients. In our case series, we showed information regarding four patients. From the systematic review, the mean presentation time was 42.6 h, and the mean number of procedures to solve priapism was 2,4; in our case series was 42.75 h and 2, respectively.

Conclusion

Cocaine-related priapism might present with a delayed diagnosis, need more procedures to be managed, and have a worse prognosis. More extensive and prospective studies are required.