What causes balanoposthitis? How is it treated?
Inflammation of the glans penis and prepuce often occur simultaneously, hence they are collectively referred to as balanoposthitis. The main cause of balanoposthitis is phimosis or excessive length of the foreskin. In addition, unhygienic sexual intercourse, drug irritation or allergy can also be causes of the condition.
Balanoposthitis is characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and intense itching of the glans penis and prepuce. Some cases may present with erosion and ulcers, accompanied by yellow purulent discharge and a distinctive foul odor. Severe cases can lead to necrosis of the glans penis. After the acute phase, some patients may develop urethral meatus adhesion and stenosis, causing difficulty in urination. Repeated infections can thicken the glans penis or prepuce, leading to leukoplakia.
When allergic reactions occur due to certain medications, fixed edematous erythema may appear on the glans penis or prepuce, with vesicles forming at the center. Rupture of these vesicles can lead to infection. Symptoms typically occur within 24-36 hours after taking the medication, and improve after discontinuation of the drug. If the same drug is taken again...