Sclerosing lymphangitis is a benign disease, caused by thrombosed or sclerosed lymphatic vessels in the shaft of the penis. It presents with a sudden appearance of an asymptomatic cordlike thickening of cartilaginous consistency on the distal shaft of the penis.

The pathogenesis of sclerosing lymphangitis is not understood. Infection is unlikely. Most likely trauma plays an important role in this disease since it is often seen in men participating in vigorous sexual relations or vigorous masturbation.