Balanitis xerotica obliterans--a review

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Dermatology
• Pathology

Background:

• Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the glans penis and prepuce.
• Often misdiagnosed or considered rare, BXO may be more prevalent than currently believed, with unknown etiology.
• BXO can lead to significant urological complications, including phimosis and urethral strictures, particularly if unrecognized during circumcision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the frequency and clinical significance of Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO).
• To review diagnostic approaches, including the role of biopsy.
• To discuss current treatment strategies, emphasizing surgical interventions for advanced disease and complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical presentations and diagnostic criteria for BXO.
• Analysis of treatment outcomes for various therapeutic modalities, from topical corticosteroids to surgical reconstruction.
• Evaluation of surgical techniques for phimosis, meatal stenosis, and urethral strictures associated with BXO.

Main Results:

• Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent complications such as urethral stricture.
• Surgical interventions, including modified circumcision and urethroplasty, offer significant relief for advanced BXO.
• While effective, surgical treatments may not always provide a complete resolution for this progressive disease.

Conclusions:

• Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO) requires a high index of suspicion for accurate diagnosis.
• Surgical management is often necessary for symptomatic relief and prevention of complications.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the etiology and optimize long-term management of BXO.