Phimosis Vs Balanitis

While examining the male genitalia, you are unable to retract the foreskin of an uncircumcised patient. There is no evidence of erythema. Which of the following is

the most likely diagnosis?

• a.Balanitis
• b.Phimosis
• c.Escutcheon
• d.Smegma
• e.Priapism

The answer is (b).



Phimosis refers to the inability to retract the distal foreskin over the glans penis.

Physiologic phimosis occurs naturally in newborn males. Pathologic phimosis defines an inability to retract the foreskin after it was previously retractible or after puberty in an uncircumcised patient, may be secondary to distal scarring of the foreskin. this may occur normally in the first 6 years of life.

Phimosis is usually congenital but may be due to recurrent infections or balanoposthitis (inflammation of the glans penis and prepuce).



Balanitis is inflammation of the glans penis and occurs only in uncircumcised persons. Escutcheon is the hair pattern associated with genitalia. Smegma is a white, cheeselike material that collects around the glans penis in an uncircumcised man. Priapism is a painful, prolonged penile erection, which most often occurs in patients with sickle cell disease, sickle cell trait, or leukemia.



To see Balanitis :- click here