“What is balanitis?”
My 13-year-old boy was just examined by his pediatrician who said he was developing balanitis, which I never heard of. He said it was a hygiene issue. Is it serious?
2 Answers
Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans, or head of the penis. It can be from direct irritation, allergic contact dermatitis (contact with something the patient is allergic to), sexually transmitted diseases, or irritation from poor hygiene, as occurs in uncircumcised boys/men. The treatment is usually topical medications, depending on the etiology, and in recurrent cases in an uncircumcised male, consideration for circumcision.
Thanks,
Dr. K.
Thanks,
Dr. K.
It can be very painful. The penis can become red and swollen and adhesions can form.
