Clinical meaning
Balanitis is inflammation of the glans penis (the head of the penis). When inflammation extends to the foreskin (prepuce), it is called balanoposthitis. The most common cause is poor hygiene combined with an intact foreskin, which creates a warm, moist environment under the prepuce where organisms can thrive. Candida albicans (yeast) is the most common infectious cause, especially in patients with diabetes mellitus. Bacterial infections, irritant contact dermatitis (from soaps, detergents, or condoms), and skin conditions can also cause balanitis. The inflammation leads to redness, swelling, tenderness, and discharge of the glans and foreskin. Recurrent balanitis can lead to scarring of the foreskin, causing or worsening phimosis.
Exam relevance
Risk factors: - Intact (uncircumcised) foreskin - Poor genital hygiene - Diabetes mellitus (especially uncontrolled - provides glucose for yeast growth) - Obesity - Use of irritant soaps, detergents, or spermicides - Immunosuppression - Antibiotic use (promotes yeast overgrowth) - Tight-fitting clothing