Diagnosis of priapism visually

The medical history and physical examination are sufficient to establish a permanent erection - to recognize priapism. It is also important to clarify the causes and the differentiation of the type.


blood tests
To reduce the sickle cell anemia or leukemia, a blood test in the laboratory and a differential blood count and possibly a determination of hemoglobin S (also called sickle cell hemoglobin) performed. Under certain circumstances, a drug screening is required.


Differentiation of type


Whether it is a low-flow type or a high-flow type can be distinguished by the following tests:


ultrasound
Doppler ultrasound: During low-flow type is a minor arterial inflow demonstrated, the high-flow type, there is a high arterial inflow.


Examination of blood gases
A sample of blood from the corpora cavernosa is examined for blood gases: is the high oxygen content (pO2 above 60 mm Hg) there is a high-flow type, it is below 50 mmHg is it is a low flow type.