Investigating iontophoresis as a therapeutic approach for Peyronie's disease: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION

Iontophoresis therapy (IPT) is a noninvasive technique that uses electrical impulses to deliver charged molecules into the skin for controlled and targeted drug delivery. IPT has been explored as a noninvasive treatment option for Peyronie's disease (PD), but the current literature in this regard is still scarce.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to systematically review the current literature on the application of IPT in the management of PD to provide a comprehensive evaluation and holistic outlook on the subject.

METHOD: A comprehensive search strategy was implemented in the following databases to retrieve research articles: PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, and Web of Science. Google Scholar was also manually searched. The search results were imported into Rayyan reference management for assessment based on the predefined inclusion criteria. The quality of the articles was evaluated by the proper JBI checklist (ie, per the study design), and the JBI grades of recommendation were used for grading the evidence.

RESULTS

A systematic search yielded 451 publications, 11 of which met the criteria to be included in this systematic review. The results demonstrated that IPT, usually with verapamil and dexamethasone, has shown promising results in treating PD. These methods can reduce pain, plaque size, and penile curvature while improving sexual function and quality of life with no serious adverse events. However, most studies had moderate to low quality, indicating a weak recommendation for a certain health management strategy.

CONCLUSION

Based on the extant literature, there is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of IPT for the management of PD. Placing it in the forefront of research can facilitate the management choices for PD even further, given its therapeutic potential.