Megaprepuce: a systematic review of a rare condition with a controversial surgical management

Mohamed Shalaby1, Salvatore Cascio2

  • 1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, Bristol, BS2 8BJ, UK. mshalaby@doctors.org.uk.

Insights

Megaprepuce (MP), a rare penile anomaly, involves excessive inner prepuce and a narrow phimotic ring. This review discusses its embryology, etiology, and surgical correction techniques.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Medical Genetics

Background:

  • Megaprepuce (MP) is a rare congenital penile anomaly characterized by an excessively redundant inner prepuce, limited penile skin, and a narrow phimotic ring.
  • The precise etiological factors underlying megaprepuce development remain poorly understood.
  • Existing literature often includes varied presentations of inconspicuous penis, potentially confounding the understanding of MP.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct a systematic literature review on megaprepuce.
  • To present and discuss the embryology, history, and etiology of this unique penile anomaly.
  • To provide a comprehensive overview of surgical techniques for megaprepuce correction.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing medical literature.
  • Analysis of studies published over the last 26 years.
  • Synthesis of information regarding embryology, etiology, and surgical interventions.

Main Results:

  • The etiology of megaprepuce is not well-established.
  • Numerous surgical techniques have been reported, often with limited patient numbers and short follow-up periods.
  • Potential overlap with other penile anomalies like concealed and webbed penis complicates historical data analysis.

Conclusions:

  • Megaprepuce represents a distinct penile anomaly requiring specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the etiology and optimize surgical outcomes.
  • Standardization of definitions and reporting is crucial for future studies on megaprepuce.