What could potentially cause a prolonged painful erection in a patient presenting with stable vital signs?

A prolonged painful erection, medically known as priapism, can be associated with several factors, including the use of certain medications. In this context, antidepressants, particularly those that affect serotonin levels, can lead to priapism as a side effect. Some antidepressants, especially those in the group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been reported to cause this potentially painful condition.

This condition arises because these medications can affect blood flow and vascular responses in the pelvic region, leading to engorgement of the penis without the usual release of blood that occurs during normal sexual arousal. Therefore, the presence of antidepressant use can be a critical factor when evaluating a patient who is experiencing this condition.

While other options may be associated with medical conditions or medication interactions that can have a range of effects, the specific connection between the use of antidepressants and the occurrence of priapism is well-documented in medical literature.