Two Sticks, Some Parchment, and Some Chemicals

Abstract

There are no validated scales for assessing the psychosocial impact of Peyronie's disease (PD), which affects approximately 5–10% of men over age 50.To develop a psychometrically valid outcome measure for assessing psychosocial and sexual consequences of PD. To conduct a qualitative study of men with PD and age‐matched controls, and design a new patient‐reported outcome measure of PD.An expert advisory panel identified relevant topics and conceptual areas to be addressed based on clinical experience and literature reviews. A conceptual model was developed to serve as a discussion guide for qualitative interviews with geographically and ethnically diverse PD subjects and controls. Interviews were conducted in a focus‐group format by a trained interviewer and were recorded and transcribed for qualitative analysis according to grounded theory concepts.Focus‐group interviews.Focus‐group interviews were conducted with 64 men (28 PD patients, 36 controls) in 13 separate focus groups over a 3‐month period. Blinded analysis of the interview transcripts identified four core domains: (i) physical appearance and self‐image; (ii) sexual function and performance; (iii) PD‐related pain and discomfort; and (iv) social stigmatization and isolation. Based on feedback from participants and experts, a new outcome questionnaire was developed to assess core domain responses in a structured, self‐report format.This qualitative study helped to refine and broaden the focus of the conceptual model for further assessment. It also confirmed that PD has a major impact on sexual and psychological function in these patients. Rosen R, Catania J, Lue T, Althof S, Henne J, Hellstrom W, and Levine L. Impact of Peyronie's disease on sexual and psychosocial functioning: Qualitative findings in patients and controls. J Sex Med 2008;5:1977–1984.