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What causes balanitis (inflammation of the glans penis)?

Dec 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Introduction
Balanitis is mainly caused by excessive friction, trauma, candidiasis, eczema, contact dermatitis, and other factors. Underwear that is too stiff or tight, frequent or overly vigorous sexual activity may all lead to prolonged friction on the foreskin, resulting in local damage and subsequent ulceration. To prevent this, avoid excessive friction, choose soft and loose-fitting underwear, and reduce the frequency and intensity of sexual activity.

Generally, balanitis or penile ulceration may be caused by excessive friction, trauma, candidiasis, eczema, contact dermatitis, or other factors. If discomfort occurs, please seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Excessive Friction

Penile irritation and ulceration may result from prolonged friction caused by wearing underwear made of coarse or tight fabric, or from frequent or overly vigorous sexual activity. This may lead to local skin damage and subsequent ulceration. It is advisable to avoid excessive friction, wear soft and loose underwear, reduce the frequency and intensity of sexual activity, and maintain local hygiene.

2. Trauma

Direct trauma to the foreskin, such as tearing or abrasions, may cause local tissue damage and ulceration. It is recommended to clean the wound promptly and prevent infection.

3. Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

Candida infection is primarily associated with a weakened immune system. When candidiasis occurs, fungal invasion of the mucocutaneous tissue of the foreskin may compromise its barrier function, leading to local erythema, pruritus, ulceration, increased white discharge, and sensations of burning. Treatment options include oral antifungal medications such as fluconazole capsules, itraconazole dispersible tablets, and clotrimazole and metronidazole effervescent tablets, to be used under the guidance of a qualified physician.

4. Eczema

Eczema may be triggered by food, allergens, or chemical substances. In cases of eczema, the skin barrier is compromised, potentially causing local erythema, pruritus, dryness, fissures, and ulceration, along with symptoms such as dryness and desquamation. It is recommended to follow medical advice for treatment with topical agents such as desonide cream, antihistamines like fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets, and erythromycin ointment.

5. Contact Dermatitis

Contact with allergens such as chemicals, detergents, or medications may trigger allergic reactions, leading to erythema, pruritus, and ulceration of the foreskin, possibly accompanied by swelling and rash. Treatment may include antihistamines such as loratadine tablets, chlorpheniramine and prednisolone tablets, as directed by a physician.

It is also recommended to increase intake of vitamin C and zinc in daily life, which may help enhance immunity and promote wound healing.

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