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Balanitis and balanoposthitis: a review
1Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK.
Genitourinary Medicine
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Balanitis is a common genitourinary issue, often with undiagnosed causes. Fungal infections like candida are frequent, but bacterial and irritant factors also contribute significantly.
Area of Science:
- Genitourinary Medicine
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Balanitis is a prevalent condition affecting the glans penis.
- Infective causes are a significant concern, though often undiagnosed.
- Literature review provides an overview of balanitis, focusing on etiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on balanitis.
- To emphasize the role of infective causes in balanitis.
- To highlight diagnostic challenges and management considerations.
Main Methods:
- Literature search conducted using OVID CD plus Medline (1967-1995).
- Search terms included 'balanitis' and 'balanoposthitis'.
- Specific conditions like anaerobic infection and Zoon's balanitis were investigated separately.
Main Results:
- Infection is a common cause of balanitis, with Candida being most frequent.
- Gardnerella and anaerobic infections are also prevalent.
- Irritant factors may contribute to balanitis in many cases.
Conclusions:
- Balanitis is common in genitourinary clinics, with frequent undiagnosed etiologies.
- Infections, particularly Candida, are key causes, alongside bacterial and irritant factors.
- Persistent or unclear cases of balanitis warrant further investigation, including biopsy.