Balanitis/Balanoposthitis
- Balanoposthitis is a condition that affects the penis. It causes inflammation of the foreskin and glans.
- Since the foreskin is removed during circumcision, balanoposthitis only affects uncircumcised males.
- It has many causes, but poor hygiene and a tight foreskin can make it easier to get balanoposthitis.
Causes:-
Infections are among the most common causes of balanoposthitis.Infections that can cause balanoposthitis include:-
- penile yeast infections
- chlamydia
- fungal infections
- gonorrhea
- herpes simplex
- human papillomavirus (HPV)
- primary or secondary syphilis
- trichomoniasis
- chancroid
Symptoms:-
- pain, tenderness, and irritation on your foreskin and the head of your penis.
- discolored or shiny skin
- dry skin,itching or burning
- thick, leathery skin (lichenification)
- unusual discharge
- tight foreskin (phimosis)
- foul smell
- skin erosion or lesions
Diagnosis:-
- You might need to see a doctor who specializes in urology (urologist),who will examine you and find the exact cause of your symptoms and treat as per the diagnosis.
- They may take a swab sample from the head or foreskin to examine under a microscope.
- Depending on your symptoms, tests such as urinalysis,blood test or a biopsy might also be necessary
Management/Treatment:-
Getting rid of balanoposthitis depends on its cause. Treatment options include:-
- Antibiotics. Your healthcare provider can treat bacterial and viral infections — including STDs with antibiotics. Common antibiotics include amoxicillin, clarithromycin and erythromycin.
- Antifungal creams. If a fungus is responsible for your balanoposthitis, your provider will prescribe an antifungal cream to treat the infection. Common antifungal creams include clotrimazole , econazole, miconazole and sulconazole. Apply the cream to your foreskin and glans as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Antihistamines. If an allergen causes balanoposthitis, your healthcare provider may recommend antihistamines.
- Circumcision. If you get balanoposthitis often, your healthcare provider may recommend removing your foreskin. Healthcare providers recommend circumcision most often for people who have phimosis.
- Improved hygiene. Regularly wash and dry your foreskin, glans and genital area.
