In the Journals

Effect of Intralesional Interferon-Alpha 2b Combined with Oral Vitamin E for Treatment of Early Stage Peyronie's Disease

August 28, 2006

Authors: Inal T, Tokatli Z, Akand M, Ozdiler E, Yaman O. 

Journal: Urology 2006; 67:1038-1042.

Editorial Comment:  Peyronie's disease affects more than 3% of the adult male population and is characterized by scar formation in the penis and many times diminished erectile function.  While the exact cause of the disease is unclear, an inflammatory response is commonly implicated.  On this basis, anti-inflammatory treatments such as penile injections of interferon-alpha 2b and oral vitamin E have been widely touted and used.  In this clinically rigorous study of 30 men with relatively early stage Peyronie's disease, these therapies alone or in combination were not found to be objectively helpful.  Thus, the mechanisms, prevention, and treatment of Peyronie's disease remain poorly defined. 
 

Arthur L. Burnett, M.