Partial thrombosis of the corpus cavernosum

Association between partial thrombosis of the corpus cavernosum, partial priapism, and hard flaccid syndrome: A scoping review

AIM

To describe the association between partial thrombosis of the corpus cavernosum, partial priapism, and hard flaccid syndrome.

METHODS

An scoping review was performed according to the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute. Moreover, we performed a search strategy using the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases. We included the available information, evaluating the conditions of partial thrombosis of the corpus cavernosum, partial priapism, and hard flaccid syndrome, and their molecular and physiological mechanisms and clinical presentation.

RESULTS

We identified 207 manuscripts and chose eight studies published between 2001 and 2021. The total number of patients was 34, and their mean age was 28.2 years. Moreover, in 84% of the studies, the pathophysiology of the events was related to microtrauma or prolonged perineal compression. Also, 94.2% of the patients had some degree of erectile dysfunction. In addition, out of all patients, 94% underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, patients with hard flaccid syndrome did not show relevant findings in these studies. Conversely, MRIs showed asymmetry in the proximal corpora cavernosa, thrombosed corpus cavernosum segments, and mainly cavernous fibrous septum in patients with partial cavernous thrombosis and partial priapism.

CONCLUSION

Partial thrombosis of the corpus cavernosum, partial priapism, and hard flaccid syndrome occurred more frequently in young patients, possibly related to microtraumas that generate cavernous fibrosis and trigger alterations in the erection of the distal portion of the penis. Also, they cause proximal hardening pelvic, perineal pain, painful ejaculations, and cavernous asymmetry. Moreover, the imaging characteristics are similar in patients with partial priapism and partial cavernous thrombosis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Penile emergencies: a review of the main conditions

Acute penile conditions, which typically have a traumatic, vascular, or infectious etiology, are rather uncommon and often require prompt medical evaluation. Penile emergencies can be treated conservatively or surgically, and their management often relies on the results of imaging examinations. Because of its high spatial resolution and wide availability, as well as the fact that it does not involve the use of ionizing radiation, ultrasound is the imaging modality of choice in the initial evaluation of penile emergencies. Inconclusive cases can be further evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging. The main purpose of this pictorial essay is to review the main penile emergencies, by presenting illustrative cases, focusing on radiologic findings, and discussing the roles played by the various imaging methods.

Corpus cavernosum thrombosis: The membrane may play its role

Partial thrombosis of corpus cavernosum is an uncommon condition that needs a high level of suspicious to be diagnosed. Imaging techniques may be very useful, and MR is the state-of-the-art technique. We present a case of a young male who presented to the emergency department with perineal and painful mass. MR imaging clearly depicted a thrombosed corpus cavernosum and a bilateral membrane that is possibly the underlying predisposing condition. With only conservative treatment the patient had an excellent outcome.