Overview

Priapism is a prolonged erection of the penis. The full or partial erection continues hours beyond or isn't caused by sexual stimulation. The main types of priapism are ischemic and nonischemic. Ischemic priapism is a medical emergency.

Although priapism is an uncommon condition overall, it occurs commonly in certain groups, such as people who have sickle cell disease. Prompt treatment for priapism is usually needed to prevent tissue damage that could result in the inability to get or maintain an erection (erectile dysfunction).

Priapism most commonly affects males in their 30s and older, but can begin in childhood for males with sickle cell disease.