Which physical exam finding is most characteristic of Peyronie’s disease?

• A. Inflammation of the glans of the penis
• B. Foreskin that cannot be retracted
• C. chancre on the shaft of the penis
• D. Fibrous band on lateral portion of the penis

Answer: (D)

Peyronie’s disease is caused by fibrous plaques in the tunica albuginea of the penis, which leads to curvature and sometimes pain during erections. On physical exam, the hallmark finding is a firm, noncompressible fibrous plaque or band along the shaft, often on the lateral (or dorsal) aspect. This palpable band explains the bending of the penis when erect.

In contrast, inflammation of the glans would present with redness and irritation of the head, not a discrete plaque; a foreskin that cannot be retracted describes phimosis; and a chancre on the shaft points to primary syphilis. Thus, the presence of a fibrous band on the lateral penis best matches Peyronie’s disease.