BALANITIS PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
Balanitis is inflammation typically caused by
Inflammation of the rounded head (the glans)
of the penis is called balanitis. Inflammation
of the foreskin is called posthitis. In the
add to this problem. The condition is often caused
uncircumcised male, balanitis and posthitis
by an overgrowth of either bacteria or yeast. The
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.
CAUSATIVE AGENT
 Candida albicans
 β‐Hemolytic streptococci (groups A and B)
 Bacteroides species
 Gardnerella vaginalis
 Chlamydia trachomatis
 Trichomonas vaginalis
Amoeba enterocolitica
INCUBATION PERIOD
approximately 4 days
infections or chronic skin conditions. Improper
hygiene can contribute to skin irritation. Both
inadequate cleansing and too much cleansing can
MODE OF TRANSMISSION
transmitted through sexual intercourse
foreskin of the penis is an ideal place for these
organisms to grow because it can trap moisture
around the penis head. PERIOD OF COMMUNICABILITY
Injuries on the tip of the penis or foreskin can while lesions are present and contact
cause swelling and discomfort. infectivity is unknown.
Irritation in the area can also cause balanitis.
Irritation can be caused by: MANIFESTATIONS
 not rinsing soap completely off of your
 Redness or swelling of the glans penis
penis after showering
 Pain
 using scented soaps to clean your penis
 Dysuria
 using bar soap that dries out the skin
 using scented lotions or sprays on your  Preputial or urethral discharge
penis  Inability to retract previously reducible
 Some laxatives, sleeping pills, painkillers, foreskin
and antibiotics can cause balanitis as a side  Focal or global erythema of glans
effect. This is called a fixed drug eruption.  Discharge, swelling, erythema, or fissures
Other causes of balanitis include: of prepuce (balanoposthitis)
 reactive arthritis  Inguinal adenopathy
 uncontrolled diabetes
 sexually transmitted infections
like syphilis, trichomonas, and gonorrhea
 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.