Medical Encyclopedia

 

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Balanitis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy
Circumcised vs. uncircumcised
Circumcised vs. uncircumcised

Alternative Names    Return to top

Balanoposthitis

Definition    Return to top

Balanitis is an inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis.

Causes    Return to top

Balanitis is usually caused by poor hygiene in uncircumcised men. The inflammation can be due to infection, harsh soaps, or failure to properly rinse soap off while bathing. Several other diseases, including reactive arthritis and lichen sclerosis et atrophicus, can lead to balanitis. Men with uncontrolled diabetes are at risk of developing balanitis.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Your dermatologist or urologist may be able to diagnosis the cause of your balanitis by examination alone. However, additional skin tests for viruses, fungi, or bacteria are often needed. Occasionally, a skin biopsy is required.

Treatment    Return to top

Treatment depends on the cause of the balanitis. For example, infectious balanitis may be treated with antibiotic pills or creams. Balanitis occurring with skin diseases may respond to steroid creams. In severe cases, circumcision may be the best option.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Most cases of balanitis can be controlled with medicated creams and good hygiene. Surgery is not usually necessary. Outcomes are nearly always positive.

Possible Complications    Return to top

Chronic inflammation or infection can:

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Notify your health care provider if you are experiencing any signs of balanitis including swelling of the foreskin or pain.

Prevention    Return to top

Good hygiene can prevent most cases of balanitis. During bathing, the foreskin should be retracted to adequately clean and dry the area beneath it.

References    Return to top

Ferri FF. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2007: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. 9th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2007.

Wein AJ. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007.

Update Date: 7/23/2007

Updated by: Marc Greenstein, DO, Urologist, North Jersey Center for Urologic Care, Denville, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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