[3] Ischemic priapism is typically treated with a nerve block of the penis followed by aspiration of blood from the corpora cavernosa.

Per the University Hospital Schleswig Holstein, "The duration of a normal erection before it is classifiable as priapism is still controversial.

[9] In extreme cases, if the penis develops severe vascular disease, the priapism can result in penile gangrene.

[10] Causes of low-flow priapism include sickle cell anemia (most common in children), leukemia, and other blood dyscrasias such as thalassemia and multiple myeloma, and the use of various drugs, as well as cancers.

The most common medications that cause priapism are intra-cavernous injections for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (papaverine, alprostadil).

Other medication groups reported are antihypertensives (e.g. Doxazosin), antipsychotics (e.g., chlorpromazine, clozapine), antidepressants (most notably trazodone), anti-convulsant and mood stabilizer drugs such as sodium valproate.

[14] Causes of high-flow priapism include: The diagnosis is often based on the history of the condition as well as a physical exam.

[3] Penile ultrasonography with Doppler is the imaging method of choice, because it is noninvasive, widely available, and highly sensitive.

Eventually, changes in the echotexture of the corpora cavernosa can be observed due to the fibrotic transformation generated by tissue anoxia.

[15] Erection is largely a parasympathetic response, so the sympathetic action of pseudoephedrine may serve to relieve this condition.

Pseudoephedrine is an alpha-agonist agent that exerts a constriction effect on smooth muscle of corpora cavernosum, which in turn facilitates venous outflow.

[3] Side effects of phenylephrine may include: high blood pressure, slow heart rate, and arrhythmia.

[16] Proximal shunts, such as the Quackel's,[clarification needed] are more involved and entail operative dissection in the perineum where the corpora meet the spongiosum while making an incision in both and suturing both openings together.

[18] As the complication rates with prolonged priapism are high, early penile prosthesis implantation may be considered.

In sickle cell anemia, treatment is initially with intravenous fluids, pain medication, and oxygen therapy.