Phimosis and redundant prepuce can easily lead to the accumulation of a white, cheese-like smegma under the foreskin, formed by sebaceous gland secretions and shed epithelial cells. Occasionally, this may develop into calculi and is prone to bacterial infections, resulting in balanoposthitis. Repeated inflammatory stimulation from recurrent balanoposthitis is closely associated with the development of carcinoma of the penis.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

Excessive foreskin, phimosis, and adhesion between the foreskin and glans are the main causes of balanoposthitis. The moist environment under the foreskin tends to harbor dirt and bacteria, facilitating microbial growth and reproduction. Coupled with the increasing incidence of sexually transmitted diseases, the occurrence of balanoposthitis has become more complex. Patients usually have a history of excessive foreskin or phimosis. After onset, symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain in the foreskin and glans, which worsen during urination. Repeated infections can lead to adhesion between the foreskin and glans, even narrowing of the urethral opening, causing difficulty in urination. Exudation and suppuration may occur, and in severe cases, erosions or ulcers can form, accompanied by fever, general discomfort, and urethritis.

bubble_chart Diagnosis

1. History of redundant prepuce or phimosis;

2. Redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the prepuce and glans, aggravated during urination;

3. Purulent discharge from the preputial orifice;

4. Recurrent infections leading to adhesion of the prepuce and glans or even urethral meatus stenosis, causing dysuria.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

1. Soak the penis in a 1:5000 potassium permanganate solution, 1 to 6 times daily, for 30 minutes each time.

2. Administer antibiotics.

3. If drainage is inadequate, a dorsal longitudinal incision of the prepuce may be performed.

4. For allergic balanoposthitis, discontinue the sensitizing drug, apply cortisone ointment locally, and administer antihistamines.