Balanitis
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Balanitis
| Name: Balanitis |
| Also known as: |
| Inflammation or infection of the head of the penis (the area normally covered by the foreskin in uncircumcised men) or the tip of the clitoris in women. |
Causes of Balanitis
Bacteria (common), fungi (eg. thrush also common), and micro-organisms such as amoebae and Trichinosis (uncommon). Irritants such as chemicals, urine (in incontinent men) and dermatitis may also be responsible. |
Symptoms of Balanitis
Head of the penis or clitoris becomes tender, painful and there maybe weeping sores present. |
Tests for Balanitis
Swab taken to identify responsible organism. |
Treatment for Balanitis
Antibiotic or anti fungal creams and/or tablets. Irritants must be removed, or the penis protected by a barrier cream or condom. Dermatitis maybe difficult to treat and require a variety of creams and ointments.
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Complications of Balanitis of its treatment
In recurrent cases, circumcision may be required. |
Likely Outcome of Balanitis
Depends on cause, but generally good response to treatment. |
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