MR Imaging and Surgical Intervention of Penile Paraffinoma

Introduction

Penile paraffinoma is more common in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe than in other parts of the world (Downey AP et al. Eur Urol Focus 2019; 5(5): 894). The practice of liquid paraffin injection for cosmetic genital augmentation was first introduced by the Austrian surgeon Robert Gersuny in 1899. However, the procedure is associated with several late complications (Hohaus K et al. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology 2003; 17(5): 585 and Pehlivanov G et al. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology 2008; 22(7): 845). Paraffin injections induce a granulomatous reaction, forming a sclerosing lipogranuloma called paraffinoma. Patients with paraffinoma may experience a variety of symptoms, including penile pain, deformity, ulceration, and necrosis. Erectile dysfunction, foreskin problems, and urinary difficulties are common. In severe cases, life-threatening complications such as gangrene and sepsis may occur, often accompanied by inguinal lymphadenopathy (Cohen JL et al. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 2002; 47(5): 251 and Cormio L et al. BMC Med Imaging 2014; 14: 39).

Publication History

Received: 24 April 2024

Accepted after revision: 14 October 2024

Article published online:
30 October 2024