The role of testosterone deficiency in the development of Peyronie’s disease and its role in the severity of the disease manifestations

Abstract

PurposeBoth Peyronie’s disease (PD) and late onset hypogonadism occur, most likely, in middle-aged and old men. It is well-known that testosterone declines with age and is implicated in wound healing; therefore, the role of testosterone deficiency in the development and severity of PD was investigated. Patients and methodsA prospective controlled study was carried out on 25 participants, 15 with PD and 10 controls. PD patient history questionnaire was obtained, and PD was later confirmed by physical examination. The total and free serum testosterone levels were estimated. Evaluation of the differences between the two groups was carried out. In PD patients, the plaque area and penile curvature were assessed. PD patients were further classified into two subgroups: subgroup A (low testosterone level) and subgroup B (normal testosterone level). Evaluation of the differences between the two subgroups, such as the plaque area and penile curvature, was carried out. ResultsA significantly lower free and total serum testosterone levels were found in the PD patient group compared with the control group (P<0.05). Moreover, it was found that 60% of patients with PD had low serum testosterone levels. On comparing the subgroups, the plaque size was found to be significantly larger and the mean degree of penile curvature was found to be significantly greater in subgroup A. ConclusionTestosterone deficiency may play a role in the development of PD and in the development of more severe manifestations of the disease, such as plaque size and penile curvature. However, further studies with larger samples are encouraged to confirm these conclusions.