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Infection of penis

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Infection of the penis encompasses various conditions including balanitis and posthitis, often associated with poor hygiene, foreskin issues like phimosis, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 1

Diagnosis

  • Presence of redness, swelling, and discomfort on the glans or foreskin.
  • Symptomatic urinary tract issues or STI history should be considered.
  • Physical examination to assess foreskin integrity and presence of discharge.
  • Microbiological testing (e.g., culture, PCR) for suspected STIs 1.
  • Management

  • Antiseptic cleansing and maintaining good hygiene.
  • Topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin) for bacterial infections 1.
  • Circumcision considered for recurrent phimosis, especially in pediatric cases where parents prefer definitive treatment 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pediatrics: Circumcision can be a viable option for managing phimosis in asymptomatic cases with skin alterations, with minimal morbidity when performed in a hospital setting 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Consider circumcision as a management option for phimosis in pediatric patients, particularly if there are skin alterations or parental preference for definitive treatment, to minimize recurrence (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • Perform circumcision in a hospital setting to ensure minimal morbidity in pediatric cases 1.
  • Utilize topical antibiotics for localized bacterial infections of the penis (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • References

    1 Castagnetti M, Esposito C. Phimosis in a 10-yr-old Boy Without Urinary Infection-How to Inform Parents: For Circumcision. European urology focus 2017. link

    Original source

    1. [1]

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