What could be the cause of my persistent balanitis that resists treatment?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am an 18 years old male. I have had a complaint of meatus that turned red and swollen with pus. I have been having a form of balanitis on the head of my penis for over a month, and it is not getting any better. I have visited my doctor twice already and have been given Fluconazole the second time, and I was prescribed an anti-fungal cream and some Hydrocortisone ointment. Neither of these treatments has worked. What could be the cause of my balanitis not wanting to go away? Should I be given antibiotics?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen your query and concern.

It seems you have balanitis. Balanitis is inflammation of the glans penis. Balanitis involving the foreskin and prepuce is termed balanoposthitis. Predisposing factors include poor hygiene and overwashing, use of over-the-counter medications, and non-retraction of the foreskin. It may be associated with diabetes and candidal fungal infections. Investigating the blood sugar KOH (potassium hydroxide) mount for candidiasis is helpful.

I suggest you do the following:

Gentle retraction of the foreskin daily and soak in warm water to clean the penis and foreskin.
You can use a combination of Fusidic acid and Clotrimazole cream twice daily for one month.
If balanitis does not respond to topical therapy, then you can take tablet Fluconazole 150 mg.

Review if the problem persists.

Kind regards.

What could be the cause of my persistent balanitis that resists treatment?

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