Is there a difference between plaque and calcification, or are they the same thing, is calcification worse than plaque? I remember the urologist used both these terms when he was examining me.
Plaque is analogous to scar tissue, this tissue can in some instances become calcified. This means that is become harder, more bone-like. Calcified scars are probably much easier to feel by palpation and more likely to show up via ultrasound.
Thanks for the explanation Jimmy.
I wonder if calcification is more associated with pain than plaque since it is harder?
If you read Dr Trost's post then in some cases yes (If I understand correctly) but are you sure you actually have calcified plaque?
ps. Calcification and plaque are not separate entities. A plaque can become calcified.
The urologist said he could feel plaque and calcification when he examined me. He only examined me by hand though. I'm seeing him again in 6 months, although I can see him sooner if I go private. He said I didn't need treatment at the moment, so I assume the plaque/calcification must be small. I haven't been able to find it, I'm scared of squeezing to hard incase I aggravate it. The pain is minimal today, there seems to be no rhyme or reason to it. I suppose my next step is to get some imaging done. I'm also going to ask for pentox (seems to work for a lot of members here).
Okay, keep in mind that some urologists, including those in the UK will say come back in 6 or twelve months. Kind of passive management (there are others that advocate traction etc.- more proactive management). This is often from the early stages. You seem to be three years in with no erect curvature. This is probably quite unusual, assuming you have Peyronies Disease. Another thing you see on here a lot, is advice to get a second opinion. Do check the current consensus on Pentox. You may be looking at older posts.
Thanks for the info Jimmy, especially about the Pentox.