Transglandular cavernosum-spongiosum shunt for leukemic priapism in childhood

Priapism is a complication rarely seen in childhood leukemia. Whatever the etiology the basic pathologic feature is obstruction to venous outflow from the corpora cavernosa. The cavernous bodies are erect but the glans penis and the corpus spongiosum usually remain soft. Various forms of treatment have been advocated for the management of this condition and have met with varying degrees of success. A boy with acute lymphocytic leukemia presented with priapism. Although radiation and chemotherapy induced prompt remission and dramatic decrease in leukocytosis, the priapism persisted. Resolution of the priapism was obtained using the transglandular cavernosum-spongiosum shunt.