Priapism

Abstract

Male priapism is a pathology that is described as a sustained, painful erection lasting four hours or more. There are three types of clinical presentations of the pathology: i) ischemic or low flow priapism, in this type of priapism the physical examination usually presents a very painful rigid erection and a non-hardened glans, ii) non-ischemic priapism or known as high flow which is associated with a history of perineal trauma such as saddle sores or coital trauma and iii) recurrent priapism, which is common in sickle cell patients. The use of laboratory tests when there is doubt about the type of priapic picture is essential, cavernous blood gases should be taken. This test is highly specific and is used to differentiate the picture by its specific values such as blood pH, CO2, and oxygen saturation. Additionally, imaging studies such as Doppler ultrasound could be used, this study is of great help to differentiate the type of priapism. It is necessary to know these studies and the clinical differences that present the priapism pictures because each type of priapism should be treated differently and in some cases as a urological emergency that must be resolved promptly.