Balanitis.docx

BALANITIS Inflammation of the rounded head (the glans) of the penis is called balanitis. Inflammation of the foreskin is called posthitis. In the uncircumcised male, balanitis and posthitis generally occur together as balanoposthitis: inflammation of both the glans and foreskin. Balanitis is inflammation typically caused by infections or chronic skin conditions. Improper hygiene can contribute to skin irritation. Both inadequate cleansing and too much cleansing can add to this problem. The condition is often caused by an overgrowth of either bacteria or yeast. The foreskin of the penis is an ideal place for these organisms to grow because it can trap moisture around the penis head.

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CAUSATIVE AGENT  Candida albicans β‐Hemolytic streptococci (groups A and B)  Bacteroides species  Gardnerella vaginalis  Chlamydia trachomatis  Trichomonas vaginalis Amoeba enterocolitica

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY Balanitis is inflammation typically caused by infections or chronic skin conditions. Improper hygiene can contribute to skin irritation. Both inadequate cleansing and too much cleansing can add to this problem. The condition is often caused by an overgrowth of either bacteria or yeast. The foreskin of the penis is an ideal place for these organisms to grow because it can trap moisture around the penis head. Injuries on the tip of the penis or foreskin can cause swelling and discomfort. Irritation in the area can also cause balanitis. Irritation can be caused by:  not rinsing soap completely off of your penis after showering  using scented soaps to clean your penis  using bar soap that dries out the skin  using scented lotions or sprays on your penis  Some laxatives, sleeping pills, painkillers, and antibiotics can cause balanitis as a side effect. This is called a fixed drug eruption. Other causes of balanitis include:  reactive arthritis  uncontrolled diabetes  sexually transmitted infections like syphilis, trichomonas, and gonorrhea

INCUBATION PERIOD approximately 4 days

MODE OF TRANSMISSION transmitted through sexual intercourse

PERIOD OF COMMUNICABILITY while lesions are present and contact infectivity is unknown.

MANIFESTATIONS  Redness or swelling of the glans penis  Pain  Dysuria  Preputial or urethral discharge  Inability to retract previously reducible foreskin  Focal or global erythema of glans  Discharge, swelling, erythema, or fissures of prepuce (balanoposthitis)  Inguinal adenopathy

TREATMENT  Discontinue the use of all perfumed soaps, lotions, or powders, as they are often are a cause of foreskin irritation. Use only warm water for cleansing.  Medicated anti-itch cream. This cream helps stop itching and inflammation.  Antibiotic or antifungal medication to help clear it. This may be all you need to stop the inflammation, swelling, itching, and discharge.  Medicated creams with steroids to reduce inflammation. NURSING MANAGEMENT The following points should be discussed:  The nature of the condition  The need for hygiene balanced with avoidance of over washing.  Avoidance of soap is advised.  Abstinence from sex during episodes as this may flare the condition  Routine hygiene after sex will help to decrease the chance of developing balanitis  The foreskin should always be retracted during urination.