Balanitis - An overview
                     Understanding 
Balanitis
Introduction 
to Balanitis
Balanitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the 
glans (head) of the penis, often seen in uncircumcised 
men. It is typically caused by infections, such as yeast 
or bacterial infections, and can also result from irritants 
or underlying medical conditions like diabetes. 
Importantly, balanitis is non-contagious, meaning it 
cannot be transmitted from one person to another, 
although the organisms causing the infection can be 
spread sexually.
Symptoms of Balanitis
Redness and The most prominent symptom is redness and inflammation around the 
Inflammation head of the penis, indicating irritation.
Pain and Discomfort Patients often experience pain and discomfort in the glans, which can 
worsen during sexual activity or urination.
Itching and Irritation Itching on the foreskin is common, leading to further irritation and 
potential skin damage.
Other Symptoms Additional symptoms may include swelling, tight foreskin, white spots, 
foul smell, and sores around the glans.
Prevalence of Balanitis
10% Lifetime Prevalence
Higher 
Affected Uncircumcised Men
than 50%
15% Incidence in Children Under 4
25% Common in Diabetics
Causes of Balanitis
Infections Irritants Medical Conditions
Balanitis is commonly caused by 
infections, particularly yeast Certain medical conditions, such 
Skin irritants, including soaps, 
infections (Candida albicans), as diabetes and reactive 
gels, and latex condoms, can 
bacterial infections (such as arthritis, can increase the risk of 
lead to balanitis by causing 
Streptococcus and balanitis by compromising skin 
inflammation and sensitivity in 
Staphylococcus), and sexually integrity or causing 
the glans and foreskin.
transmitted infections like inflammation.
gonorrhea.
Types of Balanitis
Zoon's Balanitis Circinate Balanitis Pseudoepitheliomatous 
Keratotic and Micaceous 
Balanitis
Zoon's balanitis primarily affects Circinate balanitis occurs as a This rare type of balanitis 
uncircumcised men, often result of reactive arthritis, affects individuals over 60, 
presenting with pain, causing inflammation in characterized by wart-like, scaly 
inflammation, and redness in response to a previous infection skin lesions on the glans of the 
the glans and foreskin, typically such as a sexually transmitted penis, requiring careful 
in middle-aged to older adults. infection or food poisoning. diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing Balanitis
Sympto
Physical m 
Examinat Evaluatio Laborato Urine 
ion n ry Tests Analysis
A healthcare provider conducts a Patients describe their Skin tests are performed using a A urine test checks for signs 
physical examination of the genital symptoms, including cotton swab to collect samples of diabetes or other health 
area, focusing on the glans and from the affected area to 
foreskin for signs of inflammation duration and severity, issues that may contribute to 
and sores. helping to identify potential identify the organisms causing balanitis, aiding in diagnosis.
causes of balanitis. the infection.
Initial assessment report Symptom history Laboratory test results Urine analysis report
documentation
Treatment Options for Balanitis
Antifungal Creams Antibiotics
Antifungal creams such as clotrimazole, Antibiotics like penicillin, erythromycin, and 
miconazole, and nystatin are effective for amoxicillin are prescribed for balanitis caused 
treating balanitis caused by yeast infections. by bacterial infections or sexually transmitted 
infections.
Diabetes Control Circumcision
Managing diabetes through medication and In chronic cases, circumcision may be 
lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of balanitis recommended to prevent future occurrences of 
recurrence in diabetic patients. balanitis, especially in men with tight foreskin.
Conclusion and Takeaway
Balanitis is a common condition that primarily 
affects uncircumcised men, leading to symptoms 
like redness, pain, and inflammation of the glans. 
Effective treatment options are available, 
including antifungal creams and antibiotics, 
depending on the underlying cause. It is crucial 
for individuals experiencing symptoms to consult 
with healthcare providers to obtain an accurate 
diagnosis and appropriate treatment, ensuring a 
swift resolution and preventing recurrence.
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