|Classification and external resources| Priapism (Ancient Greek:
πριαπισμός ) is a potentially harmful and painful medical
condition in which the erect penis  does not return to its
flaccid state, despite the absence of both physical and
psychological stimulation, within four hours. Priapism is
considered a medical emergency, which should receive proper
treatment by a qualified medical practitioner. A similar
diificulty can occur with the clitorishe condition is known as
clitorism The name comes from the Greek god Priapus, who was
noted for his disproportionately large and permanent erection.
The causative mechanisms are poorly understood but involve
complex neurological and vascular factors. Priapism may be
associated with haematological disorders, especially sickle-cell
disease, and other conditions such as leukemia, thalassemia, and
Fabry's disease, and neurologic disorders such as spinal cord
lesions and spinal cord trauma (priapism has been reported in
hanging victims; see death erection). Recent breakth