mainly affecting the 40+ male

Balanitis, also known as plasma cell balanitis, is a rare but harmless skin disease affecting the head of the penis and/or the foreskin.

Signs of balanitis

More common in men over 40 it is characterised by a shiny red to orange plaque (area). It can also present as a yellow hue with red pinpoint spotting.

Symptoms

Occurring only in uncircumcised men, balanitis causes few symptoms there may be a bit of tenderness at the site. Most men only seek treatment because of the way their penis looks or the anxiety that there may be something more seriously wrong with it.

Causes

The causes of balanitis are not known for sure but it could be due to friction, poor hygiene, a reaction to infection or chemical or due to heat.

Treatment

The cure for balanitis is to be circumcised. Topical agents, creams and lotions, such as corticosteroids, gentian violet, antifungal agents or antibacterials, can be used but are of limited value. Fusidic acid 2% cream has had good results and has been reported as a cure in a small number of patients.