EC Paediatrics

Introduction: Priapism is a prolonged penile erection not associated with sexual stimulation, typically classified into ischemic and non-ischemic types. Neonatal priapism is characterized by its occurrence within the first 28 days of life. Current data support the hypothesis that neonatal priapism is a relatively benign form of non-ischemic priapism.

Case Presentation: We present a case of a full-term male newborn from healthy parents with a monitored pregnancy and normal prenatal ultrasounds. At 36 hours of life, he exhibited a semi-rigid, painless penile erection. Doppler ultrasonography indicated a normal penile structure, patent cavernous arteries with symmetric flow, and no signs of venous thrombosis. After excluding secondary causes, idiopathic neonatal priapism was established, and a conservative approach was adopted. A spontaneous and complete resolution was observed by 72h of life. During follow-up, the patient remained asymptomatic, with no recurrence or sequelae.

Discussion: Idiopathic neonatal priapism is a rare condition with no established treatment protocols. Unlike priapism in older children, where ischemic etiology demands prompt intervention, idiopathic neonatal priapism can be managed conservatively, with expectations of complete resolution without long-term issues.

Conclusion: This case presents an instance of idiopathic neonatal priapism with no underlying etiological cause identified after investigation. The expectant management approach was found to be therapeutically successful.

 Keywords: Priapism; Idiopathic Neonatal Priapism; Neonatal

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