Sclerodactyly, also known as cavernous sclerodactyly, is a connective tissue disorder characterized by the formation of fibrous lesions or plaques in the tunica albuginea, resulting in penile deformity. The currently reported prevalence is around 3%. The exact etiology of the disease has not been clarified, and the most likely etiology at this time is injury to the tunica albuginea of the penis.
Penile sclerosis has been linked to risk factors such as gout and connective tissue infections, and in some patients it may be due to factors such as mechanical injury to the urethra. In addition, diabetes, hypertension, and palpebral tenesmus contracture are also predisposing factors for the condition.
If the patient has a plaque or hard nodule on the penis, or pain during erection, penile deformation and other phenomena should be timely medical treatment as soon as possible, to prevent delays in the condition.