(019) Malignant Priapism: Case Report and Update on Management Protocols

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Malignant priapism is a rare condition characterized by persistent erection resulting from the invasion or metastasis of a primary neoplasm. Penile metastases arise from the genitourinary tract 64% of the time (bladder: 28.6%, prostate: 27.9%, kidney: 6.9%, ureter: 0.5%) with colorectal adenocarcinoma, lung cancer, melanoma, and hematologic diseases comprising the remainder. Malignant priapism is reported to occur in 20-53% of patients with penile metastasis. The mechanism of malignant priapism remains unknown. The most accepted theory is an invasion of the corpus cavernosum as well as associated venous systems with malignant cells. This can occur from either hematogenous or lymphatic spread from the source tumor. Resulting derangement of arterial or veno-occlusive mechanism causes priapism. Both ischemic and non-ischemic priapism can occur. Objective While treatment guidelines for priapism in non-malignant cases have been established, there is currently no guideline for treating malignant priapism. This study aims to present three cases of malignant priapism resulting from advanced genitourinary cancers and evaluate the efficacy of palliative penectomy as a treatment modality for relieving symptoms associated with malignant priapism. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of three cases of malignant priapism associated with advanced genitourinary cancers. Data were collected from medical records, including patient demographics, primary tumor characteristics, clinical presentation, treatment modalities, complications, and outcomes. The main treatment approach utilized in all cases was palliative penectomy. Symptom relief and complications were assessed as primary outcomes. Results All three patients presented with progressive penile pain, and imaging studies confirmed the presence of metastatic disease involving the penile structures. Palliative penectomy was performed in all cases, resulting in sustained relief of symptoms. No major complications were reported during the surgical procedures. Follow-up assessments showed improved quality of life in terms of pain relief, but all patients died within a short period following penectomy owing to the advanced predisposing malignancy. (figure 1) Conclusions Treatment of malignant priapism needs to be individualized to the needs of the patient. No matter the primary or secondary nature of the disease, current data suggest that malignant priapism is associated with poor outcomes, and emphasis should be put on palliative care. Although new radiation techniques have shown favorable outcomes, penectomy should be considered the last resort in clinical management. Revisions to the existing management guidelines for priapism are necessary to address its occurrence in malignant contexts. (figure 2) Disclosure No.