Men's Health Tips

Balanitis is a rare but harmless skin disease affecting the head of the penis and/or the foreskin. More common in men over 40 it is characterized by a shiny red to orange plaque color. It can also present as a yellow hue with red pinpoint spotting.

Balanitis is only seen in uncircumcised men. It causes few symptoms there may be a bit of tenderness at the site. Most men only seek treatment because of the way their penis looks or the anxiety that there may be something more seriously wrong with it.

The cause of balanitis is not known for sure but it could be due to friction, poor hygiene, a reaction to infection or chemicals or due to heat. The cure for balanitis is to be circumcised. Topical agents, creams and lotions, such as corticosteroids, gentian violet, anti fungal agents or antibacterials, can be used but are of limited value. Fusidic acid 2% cream has had good results and has been reported as a cure in a small number of patients.