Balanitis - Picture, Signs, Symptoms, Causes and Treatment of Candida Balanitis

Balanitis is the inflammation of the sensitive Glans penis which results in itching, heat, redness and some swelling, usually due to a acterial or fungal infection. Infections may be contracted by sexual intercourse or result from poor personal hygiene.

Occasionally, balanitis is an allergic reaction to a spermicide, soap or detergent.

Causes of Balanitis

Balanitis is not sexually transmitted. It results from an overgrowth of organisms which are normally present on the skin of the glans. The condition most commonly occurs in men who have a foreskin (i.e. have not been circumcised). The environment under the foreskin is warm and moist, and these conditions often favour the growth of the organisms that cause balanitis.

Types of Balanitis

1. Candidal balanitis
2. Trichomonal balanitis
3. Chlamydial balanitis
4. Mycoplasma balanitis
5. Anaerobic balanitis

Symptoms and signs of Balanitis

Symptoms include:

• A red, inflamed rash on the head and shaft of the penis or under the foreskin
• Itching or burning in the affected area
• A white, clumpy or yellowish discharge from the affected skin or from under the foreskin

Treatment of Balanitis

Treatment is by means of antibiotic, antifungal or other creams depending upon cause.

Since anaerobic conditions are necessary for growth of the offending organisms, simple exposure to air and local cleansing is most often effective. Formerly, this treatment, used with peroxide powder and arsphenamine and, in severe cases, a dorsal slit, was the extent of therapy.