Balanoposthitis

Balanoposthitis

Balanoposthitis is a condition where the head of the penis (glans) and foreskin are both inflamed. Balanoposthitis occurs mainly in uncircumcised men.

Image from Pepermpron/Adobe Stock

Causes

Balanoposthitis is commonly caused by fungal or bacterial infection. Balanoposthitis may also be caused by non-infectious skin conditions.

Risk factors

Uncircumcised penis, poor hygiene and diabetes mellitus are some of the risk factors for balanoposthitis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of balanoposthitis include redness, itch or pain of the glans penis and foreskin. There may be a foul-smelling discharge under the foreskin. The foreskin may become tight and difficult to retract (phimosis).

Treatment

Depending on the suspected cause and severity of the balanoposthitis, treatment may consist of application of anti-fungal cream, application of  antibiotic cream, oral anti-fungal pill, or oral antibiotics.

Proper hygiene with regular washing of the penis may help to reduce the risk of the balanoposthitis recurring.

If the condition keeps recurring, circumcision may be recommended.