Zoon's Balanitis - Update of Clinical Spectrum and Management

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Urology

Background:

• Zoon's balanitis (balanitis plasmacellularis circumscripta) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting genital mucosa in males and females (Zoon's vulvitis).
• It is not sexually transmitted but can cause patient anxiety due to its chronic nature, necessitating prompt diagnosis and management.
• This condition mimics other genital dermatoses, often requiring a diagnosis of exclusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and management strategies for Zoon's balanitis.
• To highlight the importance of differentiating Zoon's balanitis from premalignant lesions.

Main Methods:

• Clinical observation and histopathological examination.
• Dermoscopic findings analysis.
• Review of treatment outcomes for topical therapies, lasers, and surgical interventions.

Main Results:

• Zoon's balanitis presents as a well-demarcated, shiny, erythematous patch or plaque on genital mucosa.
• Histopathology reveals characteristic lozenge-shaped keratinocytes, siderophages, hemorrhages, and plasma cell infiltrate.
• Dermoscopy shows unique features like spermatozoa-like vessels and structureless red-orange areas.

Conclusions:

• Topical therapy alone may not always yield satisfactory results for Zoon's balanitis.
• Laser therapy and surgical management offer potential for achieving long-term remission.
• Accurate diagnosis and timely intervention are essential for managing this chronic inflammatory condition.