Images – Penile necrotic ulcer following prostatic artery embolization: A rare complication

摘要

Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) has been shown to be a safe and effective technique in treating patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). PAE is thought to work through degeneration and necrosis of prostatic cells, leading to fibrosis and decrease in overall prostate volume. While selective embolization is usually always performed, non-target embolization may occur, as intravascular particles may reflux into adjacent penile, vesical, or rectal arteries. Ischemia and ulceration of these structures has been reported in most case series and trials, usually manifesting as self-limited lesions and hematuria, hematospermia, or hematochezia. Serious complications secondary to non-target embolization remain rare. We present here a rare case of focal penile necrotic ulceration secondary to non-target embolization during PAE. We provide clinical images of the lesion, as well as procedural radiological images. We also review and discuss the current literature on PAE and its potential complications.