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Balanitis is the swelling of the glans (farther, bulkier part of the penis). It may be due to an infection, but also to the use of inadequate soaps. Sometimes, it is a symptom of other inflammatory or dermatologic diseases. The lack of airing and hygiene may lead to inflammation and edema (fluid build up) due to an accumulation of regular genital secretions. The symptoms include reddening of the prepuce (mobile fold of the skin of the penis which covers the glans) or the penis, pain, rashes in the area and malodorous secretions. The diagnosis will be carried out through clinical record collection and careful physical examination. The treatment depends on the cause of the balanitis. In most cases, it may be treated with tablets or creams. In severe cases, circumcision (cutting a part of the foreskin) may be the best option.
- Glen W Barrisford, MD, MS. Balanitis and balanoposthitis in adults. UpToDate. Jan 19, 2017.
- The American Heritage Stedman's Medical Dictionary. Available at: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/balanitis (Accessed on April 04, 2008).
- Leber M. Balanitis. Available at: www.emedicine.com/emerg/topic51.htm (Accessed on April 04, 2008).
- Palamaras I, Hamill M, Sethi G, et al. The usefulness of a diagnostic biopsy clinic in a genitourinary medicine setting: recent experience and a review of the literature. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2006; 20:905.
- Babu CS, Vitharana S, Higgins SP. Primary syphilis presenting as balanitis. Int J STD AIDS 2007; 18:497.
Dr. Elvira Moreno
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