[Priapism induced by vasoactive drugs].

OBJECTIVES

Priapism induced by intracavernous injection of vasoactive drugs is uncommon, easily managed and carries a very low risk of possible sequelae. The pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of postinjection priapism is discussed.

METHODS/

RESULTS

The series of Schramer, Padma-Nathan, Levine and other authors are reviewed. The incidence of postinjection priapism has been found to be less than 0.5% in general, although the incidence has been reported to range from 3 to 12% when papaverine is used alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Priapism induced by intracavernous injection of vasoactive drugs is uncommon and easily managed. Treatment, however, should be instituted rapidly.