Balanoposthitis

Medical Condition

Balanoposthitis (Balanitis) refers to the inflammation of the glans penis surface, often occurring together with posthitis—inflammation of the foreskin. This condition can affect individuals of any age but is more common in boys up to five years of age. Approximately 30% of men experience balanoposthitis in their lifetime, though it is rare among men who have been circumcised.

Cause of the Condition

Several factors can cause balanoposthitis:

• Lack of hygiene: Poor genital hygiene leads to the accumulation of smegma (organic material collecting in the foreskin-glans pocket), which irritates the glans penis and causes inflammation. This is the main cause of balanoposthitis.
• Infection: Various bacteria can cause the condition, but it most commonly results from a fungal Candida infection.
• Allergens and irritants: The surface of the foreskin and glans penis is sensitive to various chemical irritants. Contact with these substances can cause inflammation, including various soaps, disinfectants, spermicidal agents, and lubricants.
• Sexually transmitted infections: Balanoposthitis can manifest as a complication of sexually transmitted infections (such as gonorrhea, chlamydial infections, genital herpes, and others).

Symptoms

The main symptoms include redness of the glans penis, itching, and pain. The foreskin may also turn red and swell. Discharge from the foreskin pocket can occur.

Diagnosis

Healthcare providers diagnose balanoposthitis based on expressed complaints and a physical examination of the genital organs. In cases of fungal infections, the cause can be immediately identified and treatment prescribed. Other cases may require consultations with specialists to determine allergies to certain substances or rule out sexually transmitted infections.

Treatment

Proper care of the glans penis and foreskin is essential in all cases. Recommendations include avoiding soap when washing the genital organs and using emollients (moisturizing agents) instead. Washing the penis with warm water helps remove dirt, and the foreskin can be moistened with antiseptic solutions.

Addressing the underlying cause of the condition is crucial:

• Antifungal drugs treat fungal infections.
• Antibiotics target bacterial infections.
• Creams containing low concentrations of steroids may be prescribed for inflammation caused by chemical substances or allergies.

Maintaining proper hygiene and following medical advice will aid in effectively managing balanoposthitis.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology