Posthitis
A Posthitis is the medical term for an inflammation of the prepuce of the penis.[1]
Background
Usually it is a bacterial or fungus-related infection, but posthitis can also be caused by chemical or physical irritation. Often, unprotected sexual intercourse and poor hygiene or comorbidities, such as a foreskin constriction (phimosis) with subsequent limited hygiene, can be the cause.[1]
Therapy
The therapy is basically carried out medicinal and begins with a local therapy. Depending on the pathogenesis, antibiotic or fungicidal ointments are used. In the case of chemical or mechanical irritation, a therapeutic trial with ointments containing glucocorticoid may also be undertaken. For persistent relapses, circumcision may be considered.[1]
Complications
Possible complications include spreading of the infection to the glans (balanitis) as well as further ascending, which can lead to prostatitis or a urinary tract infection.[1]
See also
Eckert, Dr. K., Janssen, N., Franz, Prof. Dr. M., Liedgens, Dr. P.. Die nicht-retrahierbare Vorhaut bei beschwerdefreien Jungen - Eine Indikation zur Zirkumzision? [The non-retractable foreskin in symptom-free boys - An indication for circumcision?] (German). Der Urologe. 16 September 2016; 3/2017 Retrieved 23 October 2019.
