Balanitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options - Urology

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Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans penis, which can lead to symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes a discharge with an unpleasant odor. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral), irritants (such as soaps or lotions), or underlying medical conditions (like diabetes).
In your case, the symptoms you described—redness, swelling, and flaking skin—are consistent with balanitis. The fact that you experienced temporary relief with topical treatments suggests that the inflammation may have a treatable cause, but the recurrence of symptoms indicates that the underlying issue has not been fully resolved.

1. Possible Causes and Need for Testing: Given your history and symptoms, it would be prudent to consider the following potential causes:
- Infections: Bacterial infections (such as those caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus), fungal infections (like Candida), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) could be responsible.
- Irritation: This could stem from soaps, lotions, or even friction from sexual activity.

- Underlying Conditions: Conditions like diabetes can predispose individuals to infections and inflammation.

Considering these factors, it may be beneficial to conduct further testing. A swab of the affected area could help identify any bacterial or fungal infections. Additionally, if there is a concern about STIs, tests for common infections such as herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia may be warranted, especially if you have had unprotected sexual contact.

2. Regarding Your HIV and Syphilis Testing: Since you mentioned that you had a protected sexual encounter on December 7 and tested negative for HIV and syphilis on January 16, it is likely that you can reasonably exclude these infections as causes of your symptoms. However, the window period for some STIs can vary, and while a negative test for syphilis is reassuring, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider for any additional testing if symptoms persist or worsen.

In summary, your symptoms suggest a case of balanitis, likely due to an infection or irritation. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough examination and possibly further testing to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Treatment may include topical antifungal or antibacterial medications, depending on the underlying cause. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene and avoiding irritants can help prevent recurrence. If symptoms persist despite treatment, further evaluation by a urologist or dermatologist may be necessary to explore other potential underlying conditions.