Candida balanoposthitis: causes, symptoms and methods of treatment

Candida balanoposthitis is considered a fairly common problem of the stronger sex. In the past few years, cases of persistent, chronic form of this disease have increased significantly.

What is balanoposthitis?

Balanoposthitis is an infectious disease that is accompanied by inflammation of the inner leaf of the prepuce and the glans penis. In this case, the causative agent of the disease are fungi of the genus Candida. This disease can manifest itself as characteristic signs, or it is almost asymptomatic. In some cases, a man can act as a passive carrier of infection. In the absence of timely treatment, the acute form of balanoposthitis becomes chronic.

Fungal balanoposthitis: causes

The most common fungal infection is transmitted during exposure to an infected partner. At the same time, the woman herself is only a carrier of the pathogenic microflora and does not even have to guess about it.

But there are other options. The fact is that fungi of the genus Candida are transmitted during the passage through the birth canal of the mother. In a normal state they are not dangerous. But with a sharp decrease in immune activity, these yeast-like microorganisms begin to multiply intensively, causing diseases of the genital organs. It is proved that candidiasis balanoposthitis is much more common in men who have been treated with antibiotics, as well as among patients with diabetes mellitus (in the case of such a disease, immunity weakens).

The risk of such a disease increases among patients with immunodeficiency of varying degrees - this can happen in HIV infection, as a result of taking steroids or after chemotherapy.

Candida balanoposthitis: the main symptoms

The first stages of the disease can occur without any significant symptoms. But in most cases, men complain of temporary reddening of the head and a slight burning sensation, which only intensifies after sexual intercourse.

Later the head of the penis and the foreskin begin to swell. In some cases, the affected, inflamed skin is covered with red spots. The head begins to become covered with white, curdled secretions, which accumulate in the greatest quantity under the foreskin. Patients complain of severe burning and itching in the head area. A very characteristic symptom of the fungus is an acidic odor.

If the problem is ignored or the treatment is incorrect, the candida balanoposthitis passes into a chronic form, which is characterized by less obvious but constant signs. In severe cases, the formation of cracks in the foreskin is possible with further complications.

Candida balanoposthitis: diagnosis

Determine the presence of this disease, as well as appoint appropriate treatment measures can only a doctor. To begin with, it is necessary to accurately describe the symptoms to the specialist, after which he should conduct an examination of the affected genital area.

Further, as a rule, take a smear. Laboratory analysis of the flora will show the presence of a fungal pathogen, as well as its variety. In addition, it is necessary to exclude other risk factors - donate blood for sugar and tests for the presence of sexually transmitted diseases. If there is a possibility that the infection has passed from the partner, then she needs a medical examination.

Candida balanoposthitis: methods of treatment

In most cases, the patient is prescribed anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antifungal agents. They are available in the form of tablets, gels or creams.

In addition, in this state, it is simply necessary to monitor the hygiene of the external genitalia. This means that you need to wash at least twice a day with warm water and soap. After this, it is recommended to treat the head of the penis with a weak solution of potassium permanganate or furacillin.