Definition of Balanoposthitis

Balanoposthitis

Balanoposthitis:In males who are not circumcised, inflammation of the glans (the rounded head of the penis) known as balanitis, often occurs concurrently with inflammation of the foreskin, termed posthitis. This combination is referred to as balanoposthitis, indicating inflammation of both the glans and the foreskin. Circumcision prevents balanoposthitis since the absence of a foreskin eliminates the possibility of posthitis, thereby also preventing balanoposthitis. It is important for an uncircumcised boy to learn how to properly clean his penis to avoid infections and inflammation of both the foreskin and the glans. Cleaning should be done by gently retracting the foreskin without force, stopping where resistance is felt. Full retraction might not be achievable until the child is around three years old or older. The prefix "balano-" pertains to the glans of the penis (or clitoris) and is derived from the Greek word "balanos," meaning acorn. "Posthitis" (pronounced pos-THI-tis) also has Greek origins, from "posthe," meaning foreskin, combined with "-itis," indicating inflammation, thus defining inflammation of the foreskin. Consequently, balanoposthitis refers to inflammation of both the glans and the foreskin.

Medical Definition & Meaning

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

CPR Certification Labs has multiple classes available every day

Choose a course

What the AHA CPR Certification Course Includes

Comprehensive CPR Training for Adults, Children, and Infants

Our technology delivers immediate, actionable feedback that refines your skills in real time.

Proper Use of AED Devices for All Age Groups

Understand how to safely and effectively operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for adults, children, and infants.

Airway Obstruction Relief and Heimlich Maneuver

Learn how to perform the Heimlich maneuver and clear airway obstructions caused by choking in both adults and infants.

Team-Based Multi-Rescuer CPR Techniques

Gain experience working as part of a team when more than one rescuer is available during an emergency.

Official American Heart Association CPR E-Card

Receive your AHA CPR Certification E-Card on the same day you complete the class and pass the exam.

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

Local news