Refractory priapism of unknown etiology in a pediatric patient.
Priapism is a urologic emergency that can occur in any age group and every patient should receive prompt urologic consultation. Management of priapism is based on the recognition of underlying pathophysiology; ready differentiation between high-flow and low-flow priapism; reversal of any potential precipitating factors; the use of corporal aspiration irrigation combined with intracavernosal alpha adrenergic therapy; and when necessary, a shunting procedure. Delay in recognition or treatment can be crucial as the incidence of long-term complication rises substantially with the duration of the priapism.