balanoposthitis /bal′ənōposthī″tis/ [Gk, balanos + posthe, penis, foreskin, itis] , a generalized inflammation of the glans penis and prepuce in uncircumcised males, usually caused by poorly retractile foreskin and poor hygiene. It is characterized by soreness, irritation, and discharge, which occur as a complication of bacterial or fungal infection. A culture of the discharge can determine the causative agent—often a common venereal disease—so that specific antimicrobial therapy can then be instituted. Circumcision may be considered in severe cases. To relieve discomfort, the inflamed area can be irrigated with a warm saline solution several times a day.
