Low-dose radiotherapy in 179 patients with Peyronie's disease: treatment outcome and current sexual functioning

To analyse retrospectively treatment outcome in patients irradiated for Peyronie's disease.

The records of 179 patients, median age 52 years, that received radiotherapy (RT) between 1982 and 1997 were reviewed. 78% presented with painful erections and 89% with penile deformity. The symptoms were present for a median duration of 6 months (range, 1-72 months). The RT schedule consisted of 13.5 Gy (9 x 1.5 Gy, 3 fractions per week) using orthovoltage X-rays in 123 patients or 12 Gy (6 x 2 Gy, daily fractions) using electrons in 56 patients. A questionnaire regarding current sexual functioning was mailed to 130 patients whose addresses could be traced; 106 (82%) responded.

At mean follow-up period of 3 months, 83% reported that pain was diminished or had disappeared after RT. Twenty-three percent of patients reported a decrease in penile deformity. Following RT, surgical correction of penile curvature was performed in 29% of patients. No RT-related complications occurred except transient dysuria in 1 patient. Questionnaire data: 72% of patients were currently sexually active, 48% had erectile dysfunction, and 49% expressed dissatisfaction with their current sexual functioning.

Low-dose external RT (12-13.5 Gy) results in relief of pain in the majority of patients with Peyronie's disease. Improvement in penile deformity was observed, avoiding surgery in a number of patients. No significant RT-associated morbidity was encountered. It is disappointing that almost 50% of patients complain of sexual functioning, but this is presumably not related to radiotherapy.