Priapism--a review of the medical management

Priapism is characterised by the presence of prolonged, often painful penile erection in the absence of a sexual stimulus. This rare condition has a range of aetiologies, but is most common following self-administration of injection therapy for impotence. Priapism may be classified into high- and low-flow states. Low-flow priapism is an emergency ischaemic condition requiring prompt recognition and treatment to avoid devastating long-term complications of erectile dysfunction. Wide-ranging medical therapies are covered in this review. Diagnostic and treatment algorithms are suggested in light of the current available literature.