Corpus Cavernosum Abscess Secondary to Traumatic Perforation of Urethral Diverticulum

Abstract

Abscess of the corpus cavernosum is a condition that occurs most commonly as a result of penile injection, priapism, sexually transmitted infections, and trauma. The diagnosis of corpus cavernosum abscess is made through imaging, typically computed tomography (CT) or ultrasound. The preferred method of treatment for corpus cavernosum abscess is incision, drainage, and antibiotic therapy. Urethral diverticulum (UD) is defined as a saccular outpouching of the urethral lumen. We present a unique case of corpus cavernosum abscess secondary to perforation of a UD requiring extensive surgical intervention and resulting in long-term complications.

Keywords: corporal cavernotomy; corpus cavernosum; foley catheter; penile abscess; peptoniphilus; urethral diverticulum; urethral perforation; wound infection; wound vac.

Figure 1. Patient at presentation exhibiting penile and scrotal erythema, priapism, and paraphimosis.

Figure 2. Demonstration of corpus cavernosum abscess with secondary fluid collection on computed tomography (CT).

Figure 3. Patient after undergoing repeated exploration with washout, right testicular thigh pouch creation with relocation of the right testicle into the pouch, and bilateral corporal cavernostomies.