Predictors of Curvature Improvement in Men With Peyronie's Disease Treated With Intralesional Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum

IntroductionPenile curvature is the most common abnormality that is observed by men with Peyronie's disease (PD). Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) has become a standard treatment for PD patients.AimTo identify predictor factors associated with improvements of penile curvature outcomes in men with PD treated with CCH.MethodsWe retrospectively collected the data of patients with PD treated with CCH up to 8 injections divided into 4 cycles between January 2014 and July 2020. Per protocol, penile curvature was assessed at baseline, and after the second and ford CCH cycle. If after cycle 2, curvature demonstrated no improvement, or penile curvature was significantly improved and the patient was happy, no further treatment was recommended. However, if penile curvature was significantly improved and the patient remained dissatisfied, 4 cycles were completed. Three categories of response were evaluated: improvement (≥10 degrees or ≥20%, either 1 happens), unchanged (±10 degrees or ±20%) or worsened (≥10 degrees or ≥20%, either 1 happens). Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate predictive factors associated with penile curvature improvements.OutcomesDegrees of the curvature changes between the baseline and after the cycles of CCH.ResultsA total of 114 patients underwent CCH treatment. Median age was 57 years. Median PD duration was 11 months. At baseline, mean curvature was 47 degrees, 65% had dorsal curvature, 53% mid-shaft location, and 15% calcification. After CCH treatment, the mean final curvature was 40 degrees. A total of 44% improved the curvature, 39% had no change while 17% worsened after CCH treatment. Of men who had penile curvature improvement with CCH treatment, the mean curvature decreasing in degrees and percentage were 22 degrees and 41%, respectively. Men with baseline curvature ≤ 30, 31–59, and ≥ 60 degrees, the percentage curvature improvement were 29%, 43%, and 60%, respectively. Baseline curvature was the only significant predictor of penile curvature improvement after CCH (OR 1.33, 95% CI = 1.1, 1.7).Clinical ImplicationsWe confirmed baseline penile curvature is the most important predictive factor, and this is the first report describing proportions of penile curvature improvement with CCH treatment.Strengths and LimitationsThis study has several strengths, including the use of validated instruments. Nonetheless, there are limitations: the retrospective nature of the study, a single institution; and modelling device was not controlled.ConclusionPenile curvature improvement was significantly more common in patients with greater baseline curvature, reaching up to 60% for patients with ≥ 60 degrees.Flores JM, Nascimento B, Punjani N, et al. Predictors of Curvature Improvement in Men With Peyronie's Disease Treated With Intralesional Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum. J Sex Med 2022;19:1680–1686.     

Predictors of Depression in Men With Peyronie's Disease Seeking Evaluation

BackgroundPeyronie's disease (PD) has negative impacts on the psychosocial status of men including depression warranting clinical evaluation in up to 50% of men.AimTo examine predictors of depression in patients with early PD seeking evaluation.MethodsAll PD patients at a high-volume PD practice underwent screening and curvature assessment after intracavernosal injection. Complex deformity was defined as any degree of multiplanar curvature, curvature >60 degrees, or presence of hourglass deformity. Men completed the PD questionnaire (PDQ), a validated depression questionnaire (CES-D) as well as the Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire. Scores of ≥16 on CES-D were considered indicative of moderate/severe depression. Predictors of the presence of depression were defined using univariable and multivariable logistic regression.OutcomesDemographic, bother and curve related predictors of depression in men with PD.Results408 men completed all questionnaires. Mean age was similar between depressed and nondepressed groups (57 ± 10 years overall, P = .60 between groups). Proportions of erectile dysfunction were similar between groups (P = .96). Mean PD duration was similar between groups (19 ± 35 months overall, P = .46 between groups). Mean degree of curvature was 38 ± 2 degrees in the depressed vs 33 ± 1 degrees in the nondepressed groups (P = .03). A complex deformity was seen in 64.5% in the depressed vs 61.5% in the nondepressed (P = .56). A total of 110 (27%) patients had CESD scores ≥16. 74% depressed men were in relationships compared to 84% nondepressed men (P < .01). Other characteristics including bother, pain, duration of disease, curve complexity and instability were similar between the two groups. On univariable analysis, factors protective against depression included being partnered (OR 0.42, 95%CI 0.24–0.75, P < .01) and higher total SEAR scores (OR 0.95, 95%CI 0.94–0.97, P < .01). Elevated PDQ domain scores were associated with depression (Psychologic Symptoms 1.05, 95%CI 1.02–1.10, P < .01; Pain 1.08, 95%CI 1.03–1.12, P < .01; Bother 1.11, 95% CI 1.05–1.68, P < .01) as well as baseline history of depression (OR 2.93, 95%CI 1.67–5.14, P < .001). On multivariable analysis, only total SEAR score remained protective against depression (OR 0.96, 95%CI 0.94–0.97, P < .001).Clinical ImplicationsProviders must recognize that men with PD seeking evaluation have meaningful rates of depression for which early recognition is necessary.Strengths and LimitationsRetrospective review of a large prospectively collected dataset from a single center of men with PD utilizing a validated screening tool for depression.ConclusionWhile no significant demographic, bother or curve related factors predicted depression in early PD men seeking evaluation, it remains a significant problem warranting further prospective evaluation.P. Nahid, N. Bruno, S. Carolyn, et al. Predictors of Depression in Men With Peyronie's Disease Seeking Evaluation. J Sex Med 2021;18:783–788.     

Comparative Analysis of Tunical Plication vs. Intralesional Injection Therapy for Ventral Peyronie's Disease

IntroductionApproximately 10% of Peyronie's disease (PD) patients present with ventral curvatures and, as such, there is a paucity of data describing the optimal approach for treatment.AimThis study aims to compare the outcomes of surgery (tunical plication [TP]) and intralesional injection (ILI) therapy (interferon‐α2b) in men with ventral PD.Materials and MethodsRetrospective data were collected from two centers: Tulane University (ILI) and Technical University of Munich (TP). Collected variables included patient demographics, pre‐ and post‐treatment sexual function, rigorous penile measurements (curvature, length, and penile vascular findings), and post‐treatment outcomes.ResultsA total of 35 patients with ventral PD (21 ILI and 14 TP) were included in the study. There were no significant differences between the two groups prior to the interventions. There was a significantly better improvement in mean curvature with TP (46.4 degrees) as compared with ILI (9.3), P < 0.0001. TP was also associated with a significantly higher rate of ≥20% improvement in curvature as compared with ILI (100% vs. 67%, P = 0.027). Although there was no significant difference in post‐treatment change in Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) scores between the groups, 36% of the ILI patients noted an improved SHIM score as compared with none in the TP group. Erect penile length was preserved or improved in 67% of the ILI group vs. 14% of the TP group, P = 0.005.ConclusionsTP confers a better overall improvement in penile curvature as compared with ILI in patients with ventral PD. Preserved or improved erect penile length and SHIM scores may be observed in patients undergoing ILI. Yafi FA, Hatzichristodoulou G, Knoedler CJ, Trost LW, Sikka SC, and Hellstrom WJG. Comparative analysis of tunical plication vs. intralesional injection therapy for ventral Peyronie's disease. J Sex Med 2015;12:2492–2498.     

Radiation Therapy in Peyronie's Disease

IntroductionPeyronie's disease (PD) is characterized by fibrotic plaque formation within the tunica albuginea, leading to penile deformity, angulation, painful erections, and often, erectile dysfunction. There is limited knowledge of its etiology and pathophysiology. Currently, there is no standardization for reporting the evaluation and treatment outcomes. No consensus exists on the ideal management of PD.AimThe aim of this study is to review the use of radiation therapy (RT) for the treatment of PD.MethodsThis study used a review of the literature and informed expert opinion.Main Outcome MeasuresThe main outcome measures are the reported improvement with regard to pain, curvature, plaque size, and erectile function as well as a review of the safety profile of RT.ResultsRadiation has been used for the empirical treatment of PD with mixed results throughout the literature. Low‐dose RT in the early stages of PD seems to be effective in patients with painful erections not improving with time or with the use of oral or intralesional therapies. Comparison with other current medical therapies is difficult due to the absence of criteria for therapeutic success and the absence of randomized, controlled trials. Multiple studies have demonstrated varied results in terms of curvature reduction, plaque volume, and sexual functioning. The absence of the use of validated means of measuring penile deformity and sexual function, the limited relevance of plaque and pain improvement combined with the potential negative consequences of radiation on erectile tissue structure and function lead us to make a recommendation that RT not be used for the management of PD.ConclusionsIn clinical practice, mixed success for RT has led to the recommendation against its use as a treatment modality for PD. Mulhall JP, Hall M, Broderick GA, and Incrocci L. Radiation therapy in Peyronie's disease. J Sex Med 2012;9:1435–1441.     

Multicenter Prospective Study of Grafting With Collagen Fleece TachoSil in Patients With Peyronie's Disease

BackgroundA xenograft consisting of equine collagen coated with human fibrinogen and thrombin (TachoSil; Baxter, CA) has recently been introduced in grafting procedures for Peyronie’s disease (PD).AimTo describe the results of a multicenter prospective registry on patients with PD undergoing plaque incision or and grafting (PIG) or plaque excision and grafting (PEG) with collagen fleece TachoSil, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this procedure.MethodsA prospective non-controlled multicenter study of patients with PD was performed between May 2016 and March 2018. Patients from 10 centers with stable PD for at least 3 months, difficulties in sexual intercourse, normal erectile function with or without pharmacological treatment, curvature >45°, and/or penile shortening and/or complex deformities were included. All patients underwent PIG/PEG with collagen fleece TachoSil.OutcomesThe main outcome measure of this study were penile curvature correction (intraoperative), penile shortening (intraoperative), erectile function with the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the Erection Hardness Score, subjective patient outcomes with non-validated questionnaires, and complications.ResultsA total of 52 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean (SD) preoperative penile curvature was 72.8° (17.0). PIG was the preferred technique (80.8%). Intraoperatively, complete curvature correction was achieved in 92.3%, and no significant penile shortening was recorded in 80.8% of subjects. Subjective penile shortening was reported in 83.3% of patients at 6 months. No objective measurement of penile curvature and length was recorded during follow-up. No statistically significant difference from the baseline was found in IIEF-5 and Erection Hardness Score at 3 or at 6 months, although 16.7% of men experienced a worsening of IIEF-5 scores and 14.3% required de novo phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor use. 6 months after surgery, 78.5% of men were satisfied with intervention. Swelling and ecchymosis/hematoma were the most common perioperative complications (40.4%). 2 cases (3.8%) of wound infection were recorded. At 6 months, 35.7% of patients reported mild penile hypesthesia.Clinical implicationsOur results confirm the high success rate of grafting with TachoSil, and the surgeon perceived low percentage of penile shortening.Strength & LimitationsThis is the first multicentre study on patients with PD undergoing grafting with TachoSil without concomitant placement of penile prosthesis. The main limitations are the short follow-up and the relatively small sample size.ConclusionGrafting with TachoSil after PIG/PEG in patients with PD is an effective and safe procedure. Among the main advantages of this technique, there are ease of use of the graft and reduced operative time.Fernández-Pascual E, Manfredi C, Torremadé J, et al. Multicenter Prospective Study of Grafting With Collagen Fleece TachoSil in Patients With Peyronie's Disease. J Sex Med 2020;17:2279–2286.     

Standard Operating Procedures for Peyronie's Disease

IntroductionPeyronie's disease (PD) refers to a penile deformity that is associated with sexual dysfunction.AimTo provide recommendations and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) based on best evidence for diagnosis and treatment of PD.MethodsMedical literature was reviewed and combined with expert opinion of the authors.Main Outcome MeasuresRecommendations and SOPs based on grading of evidence–based medical literature.ResultsPD is a fibrotic wound-healing disorder involving the tunica albuginea of the corpora cavernosa. The resulting scar is responsible for a variety of deformities, including curvature, shortening, narrowing with hinge effect, and is frequently associated in the early phase with pain. Patients frequently experience diminished quality erections. All of these conditions can compromise sexual function for the affected male. The etiopathophysiology of PD has yet to be clarified and as a result, effective, reliable, mechanistic directed non-surgical therapy is lacking.ConclusionsThe management of PD consists of proper diagnosis and treatment, ranging from non-surgical to surgical interventions. The main state of treatment for PD rests at this time on surgical correction that should be based on clear indications, involve surgical consent, and follow a surgical algorithm that includes tunica plication, plaque incision/partial excision and grafting, and penile prosthesis implantation. Levine LA and Burnett AL. Standard operating procedures for Peyronie's disease. J Sex Med 2013;10:230-244.     

Characteristics of Men With Peyronie's Disease and Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Treatment Failure: Predictors of Surgical Intervention and Outcomes

BackgroundA subset of patients with Peyronie's disease (PD) treated with collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) experience persistent bother and some require surgery.AimWe characterize patients experiencing persistent bother after CCH treatment and identify associations and predictors of surgical intervention/outcomes.MethodsWe retrospectively identified patients with PD from October 2014 to October 2019 and identified those presenting with persistent bother after CCH treatment by other urologists. Intracavernosal injection and penile Doppler ultrasonography were performed, and subsequent interventions/outcomes were recorded. Baseline characteristics were compared with Student t-test and chi-square test. Predictors of surgical intervention and complications were assessed using multivariable logistic regression.OutcomesThe primary outcome was surgery after CCH treatment. Secondary outcomes included worsened erectile function, sensory deficits, and penile length change.ResultsOf 573, 67 (11.7%) patients with PD had undergone prior CCH treatment with median 6 injections (range 2–24). Mean post-CCH PD Questionnaire bother score was 10.1 (SD: 3.1), and total International Index of Erectile Function-5 was 15.3 (SD: 8.7). Mean PD duration was 27.8 (SD: 35.7) months, with a mean composite curvature (MCC) of 69.0° (SD: 33.8) measured after injection. Of 67, 44 (65.7%) patients had MCC >60°. Of 67, 52 (77.6%) patients had indent, narrowing, or hourglass and 26 (38.8%) had hinge effect (buckling of the erect penis with axial pressure) on examination. Calcification was identified in 26 of 67 (38.8%) patients, with grade 3 calcifications comprising 6 of 23 (26.1%) patients. Of 67, 33 (49.3%) patients underwent surgery, with 20 (60.1%) undergoing partial plaque excision and grafting with/without tunica albuginea plication, 6 (18.2%) undergoing tunica albuginea plication alone, and 7 (21.2%) undergoing penile prosthesis with plaque incision and grafting. Surgical patients had greater mean curvature (82.6 vs 55.4, P = .001) and were more likely to have hinge (54.5% vs 20.6%, P = .005). On multivariable analysis, MCC ≥60° predicted patient’s decision for surgery (odds ratio: 2.99, P < .01, 95% confidence interval: 1.62–4.35). There were no associations between surgical complications and number of injections or CCH-associated adverse events.Clinical ImplicationsPatients presenting with persistent bother after CCH treatment often have narrowing and calcifications (despite calcifications being a contraindication to CCH treatment), and those who have hinge or severe curvature are more likely to undergo surgery with low rates of complications.Strengths/LimitationsThis study's generalizability is limited by selection bias, but useful data are provided for patient counseling.ConclusionPatients with persistent bother after CCH treatment had high rates of indentation/narrowing, plaque calcifications, and MCC >60° at completion of CCH treatment. Surgical intervention is more common with hinge and is safe and feasible in these patients, with low rates of complications. These findings suggest possible negative prognostic factors for CCH treatment, which merit further investigation.Bajic P, Wiggins AB, Ziegelmann MJ, et al. Characteristics of Men With Peyronie's Disease and Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Treatment Failure: Predictors of Surgical Intervention and Outcomes. J Sex Med 2020;17:1005–1011.     

Baseline Characteristics from an Ongoing Phase 3 Study of Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum in Patients with Peyronie's Disease

IntroductionPeyronie's disease (PD) is a localized penile collagen disorder of the tunica albuginea associated with significant physical deformity and psychological impairment. Current understanding of pretreatment characteristics in patients with chronic PD is limited by small samples, varied quality of assessments, and the lack of a PD‐specific, validated measure of the psychosexual impact of PD.AimsReporting baseline demographic and disease characteristics of the large multinational cohort of subjects with chronic PD who participated in the collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH, an investigational intralesional injection and minimally invasive intervention) phase 3 clinical study program. Findings from well‐defined assessments, including the Peyronie's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ), the first validated PD‐specific patient‐reported measure of psychosexual impact, are reported.MethodsSubjects included men ≥18 years old with PD symptoms ≥12 months and penile deformity between 30° and 90°. Analysis data included demographics, disease history, and psychosexual impact.Main Outcome MeasuresPenile deformity, disease symptoms, the International Index of Erectile Function, and the PDQ were assessed.ResultsEight hundred thirty‐two subjects were enrolled from 64 sites across the United States and Australia. The mean age was 57.7 years; mean PD duration was 4.1 years. The majority of subjects had penile deformity ≤60° (77.3%); mean penile deformity was 50.5°. Subjects reported having intercourse a mean of 10.2 times in the previous 3 months, 70.8% reported difficulty in performing vaginal intercourse, and 80.4% reported less frequent vaginal intercourse. Approximately 71.5% of subjects with severe (>60°) and 58.1% of subjects with mild/moderate (≤60°) penile deformity were “very bothered” or “extremely bothered” upon last look at their erect penis (P = 0.0041), as measured by the PDQ.ConclusionsThese data add to the body of knowledge regarding the clinical impact of chronic phase PD, including the PD-specific patient-reported psychosexual symptoms, using a large multinational chronic PD cohort in the CCH phase 3 clinical program. Gelbard M, Hellstrom WJG, McMahon CG, Levine LA, Smith T, Tursi J, Kaufman G, and Goldstein I. Baseline characteristics from an ongoing phase 3 study of collagenase clostridium histolyticum in patients with Peyronie's disease. J Sex Med 2013;10:2822–2831.     

Psychological Impact of Peyronie's Disease: A Review

IntroductionPeyronie's disease (PD) is characterized by an accumulation of scar tissue in the tunica albuginea of the penis that causes curvature and deformity. PD can result in psychological distress, depression, or anxiety, which often goes untreated.AimsTo review the current literature on the psychological impact of PD, educate healthcare providers about the psychological components of the disease, and propose interventions that address the psychological and sexual challenges patients and their partners may encounter.MethodsWe performed a MEDLINE search, limited to English, using the terms “Peyronie's disease” AND “psychological” OR “psychosocial,” and select references were included for review.Main Outcome MeasureCritical review of the currently available English language literature.ResultsPD and its associated deformity often impairs sexual relations and frequently leads to psychological and psychosocial sequelae for affected individuals. Many men experience depression, low self‐esteem, and emotional distress; these problems markedly diminish the quality of life for affected individuals. The literature suggests that as many as 81% of men report “emotional difficulties,” 48% report clinically meaningful depression (26% moderate; 21% severe), and 54% report relationship problems due to PD. The challenges imposed by PD include alterations in sexual relationships, restrictions on intimacy, social isolation, and stigmatization, all of which are linked and reinforce each other. Physicians may be unaware of the psychological sequelae suffered by patients and their partners.ConclusionsImproved awareness and education about the psychological consequences and treatment options for PD are necessary among healthcare providers. To best help patients and optimize outcomes, a team‐based approach is needed that includes psychosocial assessment and appropriate resource referrals for the patient and his sexual partner. Nelson CJ and Mulhall JP. Psychological impact of Peyronie's disease: A review. J Sex Med 2013;10:653–660.     

Responsiveness of the Peyronie's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ)

IntroductionIn order to reliably assess treatment effectiveness, patient-reported outcome instruments must demonstrate adequate psychometric properties.AimTo assess the responsiveness of the Peyronie's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ) using data from two Phase 3 trials of collagenase clostridium histolyticum for Peyronie's disease (PD).MethodsBoth trials recruited adult males with PD who were in a stable relationship with a female partner for at least 3 months. Patients completed the PDQ, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and a global assessment of PD (GAPD) questionnaire at baseline and Weeks 24 and 52. Anchor- and distribution-based methods were used to evaluate the responsiveness of the PDQ.Main Outcome MeasurePeyronie's Disease Questionnaire.ResultsThe number of men available with baseline and Week 52 data was 267 for Study 1 and 270 for Study 2. The mean age was 58.0 for Study 1 and 57.4 for Study 2; the majority were white (95.2% and 97.3%, respectively). Mean PDQ subscale change scores from baseline to Week 52 for both studies ranged from −1.5 to −4.6 (P < 0.0001). In Study 1, effect sizes were moderate to large on the Psychological and Physical Symptoms (−0.56) and Symptom Bother subscales (−0.84). For patients with penile pain at baseline, the effect size was large (−1.05) for the Penile Pain subscale. Similar effect sizes were seen in Study 2. The Psychological and Physical Symptoms and Symptom Bother subscales significantly discriminated patient improvement ratings of GAPD and degree of penile curvature at Weeks 24 and 52.ConclusionsThe PDQ is highly responsive to change in men with PD. Coyne KS, Currie BM, Thompson CL, and Smith TM. Responsiveness of the Peyronie's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ). J Sex Med 2015;12:1072–1079.     

The Management of Peyronie's Disease: Evidence-based 2010 Guidelines

IntroductionThe field of Peyronie's disease is evolving and there is need for a state-of-the-art information in this area.AimTo develop an evidence-based state-of-the-art consensus report on the management of Peyronie's disease.MethodsTo provide state-of-the-art knowledge regarding the prevalence, etiology, medical and surgical management of Peyronie's Disease, representing the opinion of leading experts developed in a consensus process over a 2-year period.Main Outcome MeasuresExpert opinion was based on grading of evidence-based medical literature, widespread internal committee discussion, public presentation, and debate.ConclusionsThe real etiology of Peyronie's disease and the mechanisms of formation of the plaque still remain obscure. Although conservative management is obtaining a progressively larger consensus among the experts, surgical correction still remains the mainstay treatment for this condition. Ralph D, Gonzalez-Cadavid N, Mirone V, Perovic S, Sohn M, Usta M, and Levine L. The management of Peyronie's disease: Evidence-based 2010 guidelines.     

Peripheral Vascular Disease and Erectile Dysfunction as Predictors of Mortality in Heart Failure Patients

IntroductionSeventy percent to 90% of patients with heart failure (HF) report erectile problems. There are no published data on whether erectile dysfunction (ED) and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) correlate with mortality in HF patients. Also, little is known regarding the impact of HF etiology on mortality in patients with ED.AimsOur aim was to investigate the relationship between ED and mortality in HF patients, to evaluate whether the etiology of HF carries a prognostic measure in patients with ED, and to assess the impact of PVD on mortality in optimally treated HF patients with ED.Main Outcome MeasuresThe measures are: (i) mortality by presence or absence of ED; (ii) mortality by HF etiology and presence or absence of ED; and (iii) PVD and mortality in HF patients on optimal medical therapy with ED.MethodsThis is a single-center, prospective cohort study of 328 male HF patients (ejection fraction ≤ 40%) followed while being treated with optimal doses of beta blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. The Sexual Health Inventory for Men survey was used to assess ED (no ED ≥ 22 and ED ≤ 21). Ankle brachial index (ABI) was used to assess PVD (normal ABI ≥ 0.9 and abnormal ABI < 0.9).ResultsKaplan–Meier curves were constructed to examine the relationship between the presence or absence of ED and PVD, and mortality in a HF population. Although not statistically significant, a trend for increased risk of death was demonstrated in the ischemic cardiomyopathy cohort with ED.ConclusionsED, highly prevalent in this cohort, did not identify HF patients on optimal medical therapy at increased risk for mortality. Among the HF patients with ED, HF type was not associated with increased risk for mortality whereas PVD was independently associated with a statistically significant increase in mortality. Hebert K, Lopez B, Macedo FYB, Gomes CR, Urena J, and Arcement LM. Peripheral vascular disease and erectile dysfunction as predictors of mortality in heart failure patients. J Sex Med 2009;6:1999–2007.     

WNT2 Locus Is Involved in Genetic Susceptibility of Peyronie's Disease

IntroductionPeyronie's disease (PD) is a fibromatosis of the penis, with a pathology very similar to what is seen in the hand (palmar fascia) in Dupuytren's disease (DD). Recently, we performed a genome‐wide association study and identified nine genetic loci containing common variants associated with DD. Seven of these loci mapped within or near genes of the canonical WNT pathway and each locus yielded relatively large odds ratios (ORs) for DD disease status.AimGiven the clinical overlap between PD and DD, we examined whether the nine DD susceptibility loci are also involved in PD.MethodsAn association study was performed using a case/control design. From 2007 to 2010, we prospectively included 111 men who had been clinically diagnosed with PD. Control subjects (N = 490 males) were randomly drawn from a population‐based cohort from the same region of the Netherlands. Allele frequencies in the 111 PD cases and 490 controls were compared using a 1‐degree‐of‐freedom basic chi‐square test. A P value < 0.05 after Bonferroni correction for the nine tested single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was considered statistically significant (i.e., P < 0.0056).Main Outcome MeasureAssociation of genetic markers (SNPs) with PD.ResultsWe observed significant association with SNP rs4730775 at the wingless‐type MMTV integration site family member 2 (WNT2) locus on chromosome 7 (P = 0.0015, OR 0.61), but found no evidence for the other eight loci being involved with PD despite the large effect size seen for some of these variants in DD. The WNT2 association was even more significant after we removed 15 patients with comorbid DD.ConclusionsWNT2 is a susceptibility locus for PD and our finding provides evidence for a partly shared genetic susceptibility between PD and DD. Dolmans GH, Werker PM, de Jong IJ, Nijman RJ, LifeLines Cohort Study, Wijmenga C, and Ophoff RA. WNT2 locus is involved in genetic susceptibility of Peyronie's disease. J Sex Med 2012;9:1430–1434.