User:Mr. Ibrahem/Balanitis

Balanitis is inflammation of the head of the penis (glans). It typically occurs together with inflammation of the foreskin (posthitis), which is called balanoposthitis. Symptoms may include redness, pain, discharge, itchiness, or white patches. Complication may include phimosis.

Groups of causes include infectious (yeast, bacteria, viruses, trichomonas), inflammatory conditions (eczema, allergic reactions, lichen planus, psoriasis), and pre-cancerous conditions (Bowen's disease, erythroplasia of Queyrat). Risk factors include being uncircumcised, poor hygiene, diabetes, or over cleaning. Diagnosis may be based on microbial culture or other testing and occasionally tissue biopsy.

General management involves keeping the foreskin retracted and washing the area. Dilute vinegar (acetic acid 1%) may help. Based on the specific cause antifungal cream (such as clotrimazole), antibiotics, steroid creams, or surgery. Outcomes are usually good. Between 3 and 11% of males are affected at some point in time.