I’m sorry to hear about your patient’s situation. Corporal fibrosis after priapism can be tough to manage, but there are a few approaches that might help. Peptides like the Caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (CSD) peptide have shown promise in reducing fibrosis in preclinical studies. It works by blocking the TGF-β1/Smad pathway, which is a key driver of fibrosis. While it’s still experimental, it’s worth keeping an eye on as a potential option in the future.
Supplements can also play a role in managing fibrosis. TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a bile acid with strong anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties. It can help reduce cellular stress and slow fibrosis by targeting pathways like ER stress and apoptosis. Pentoxifylline, which is often used in conditions like Peyronie’s disease, can improve blood flow and reduce collagen buildup, making it another good option. Adding antioxidants like vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids can further help by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. L-arginine may also be beneficial, as it supports nitric oxide production, which can improve blood flow and tissue health.
There are other tools to consider, like Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum (Xiaflex), which is approved for Peyronie’s disease and works by breaking down collagen deposits. Using a vacuum erection device (VED) regularly can enhance blood flow and help prevent further fibrosis, and penile traction therapy might help remodel the fibrotic tissue over time.
This is definitely a complex case, and it might involve a combination of inflammation, oxidative stress, and dysregulated repair mechanisms. A personalized approach that targets multiple pathways—like using TUDCA to address inflammation and cellular stress alongside Pentoxifylline to improve blood flow—could create a stronger overall effect. Consulting with a urologist who specializes in this area would be a great next step. While it’s a challenging condition, these strategies offer hope for improving outcomes.