Priapism: current principles and practice.

Priapism, a pathologic condition of persistent penile erection in the absence of sexual excitation, is a true erectile disorder. Although it may seem to affect only a small population of male individuals, it carries major significance. Possible complications of the disorder include penile fibrosis and permanent erectile dysfunction. All health care professionals should appreciate the importance of the disorder and be prepared to follow current principles of diagnosis and treatment to reduce or avert its complications.