Other priapism digital illustration

Other priapism Save


ICD-10 code: N48.39

Disease category: N48.3: Priapism

Understanding Other Priapism: Causes and Symptoms

While priapism is commonly associated with prolonged and painful erections, there is a lesser-known type known as "other priapism." This condition shares some similarities with ischemic and non-ischemic priapism, but it has distinct characteristics and causes. In this article, we will explore the causes and symptoms of other priapism.

  1. Trauma: One of the leading causes of other priapism is traumatic injury to the penis or genital area. This can occur due to accidents, sports-related injuries, or surgical complications. Trauma disrupts the normal blood flow to the penis and can result in prolonged erections.
  2. Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and erectile dysfunction drugs, have been associated with other priapism. These medications can interfere with the normal mechanisms that regulate blood flow in the penis, leading to persistent erections.
  3. Underlying Medical Conditions: Other priapism can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Conditions like sickle cell disease, leukemia, lymphoma, and some metabolic disorders can contribute to the development of other priapism. It is crucial for individuals with these conditions to be aware of this potential complication.
  4. Drug and Substance Abuse: Substance abuse, particularly the misuse of certain illicit drugs or alcohol, can increase the risk of other priapism. These substances can affect the blood vessels in the penis, causing prolonged erections that may require medical attention.

Identifying the symptoms of other priapism is vital for early intervention and management. The most common symptoms include:

  • Persistent and painful erection lasting more than four hours
  • Tenderness or swelling in the penis
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Discoloration of the penis

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical help promptly. A healthcare professional can evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options to alleviate the priapism episode.

In conclusion, other priapism is a distinct type of priapism that can occur due to trauma, medication side effects, underlying medical conditions, or substance abuse. Recognizing the causes and symptoms of other priapism is crucial for early intervention and preventing potential complications. If you suspect you may be experiencing other priapism, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment of Other priapism:

Treatment Options for Other Priapism

Priapism is a persistent and painful erection that occurs unrelated to sexual stimulation. While most people are familiar with the condition known as ischemic priapism, there is another type called "other priapism." Other priapism refers to cases that do not fall under ischemic or non-ischemic priapism categories. It is essential to understand t...

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