Balanitis (Inflammation of the Head of the Penis)

Balanitis treatment depends on the underlying cause.

Balanitisis an inflammation of the skin of the head of the penis (glans penis). If the foreskin is involved as well, it is referred to as balanoposthitis.

Balanitis is usually found in uncircumcised males.

• Poor hygienecan contribute when the area under the foreskin is not washed regularly and bacteria, skin, and sweat accumulate.
• Some underlying medical conditions can also increase the risk of balanitis, especiallydiabetes mellitus.
• Allergiesto certain chemicals can causeallergicbalanitis. This could be chemicals in soaps or other products in touch with the glans of the penis.
• Certain infections (especially yeast infections) can cause balanitis.
• Reactive arthritis(formerly Reiter syndrome) is associated with inflammation around the head of the penis (circinate balanitis).

Balanitis is not asexually transmitted disease(STD）;然而,它同时也有类似的症状(for example,itchingand redness).

Usually, the most common signs and symptoms of balanitis include the following:

• Redness or mild swelling
• Itching
• Rash
• Irritation orpainon or around the penis

An odorous discharge can accompany these symptoms.

A healthcare professional will usually be able to diagnose balanitis based on asking the patient questions (history) and physical examination. No additional tests are usually necessary.

If a doctor suspects that the balanitis is caused by an underlying medical condition, the patient might require blood tests.

First, the underlying cause is determined and the treatment is directed against the reason for the condition.

• If there is an infection, the appropriate antifungal medication can be used.
• If it is a hygiene issue, daily habits are changed. Young boys may require instruction on how to retract and clean their foreskin.

The optimal medications will depend on the underlying cause of the balanitis. For example, doctors will prescribe a topical antifungal cream if aCandidainfection is present, or an antibiotic ifcellulitisis suspected. In refractory or repeated situations, the doctor might suggestcircumcisionas a possible way to prevent further infections by eliminating the overlying foreskin.

Switching soaps or other possible offending irritants can be helpful. Other times, the doctor will prescribe oral or topical medications.

The prognosis of balanitis is generally good.

The risk of balanitis can be reduced with proper hygiene, but not all balanitis can be prevented depending on the underlying cause.Circumcisionhas been advocated as a way of preventing or reducing the risk of balanitis in patients who had multiple episodes.