Balanoposthitis: issues of classification, diagnosis and approaches to therapy

Abstract

Objective. To present a variant of the modern classification of the processes occurring with lesions of the genitals, to draw specialists’ attention to the peculiarities and variety of causes leading to inflammation of the glans and foreskin, as well as to discuss topical issues of external therapy of balanopostitis.Material and methods. Data from modern studies and clinical guidelines were used in the preparation of the publication.Results. The variety of variants of lesions of the glans and foreskin can be due to a number of reasons and can be either an independent local process or a fragment of dermatosis, where it is possible to be affected in the form of balanoposthitis. Also, when examining and selecting therapy options, it is important to consider the possible role of microorganisms, whose spectrum as a cause of balanoposthitis varies from aerobic and anaerobic, to viral and fungal microflora. Treatment approaches are determined by the etiological factors.Conclusions. Balanoposthitis is a heterogeneous group of nosologies. The choice of treatment is based on the identified cause or empirically when possible. External therapy and hygiene constitute an essential part of treatment. When choosing drugs for topical glucocorticosteroids, preferenceshould be given to drugs with a high therapeutic index and low atrophogenic potential. Dysplastic processes of the penis are associated with human papillomavirus infection, the treatment of which can be both conservative and destructive.