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Paraphimosis
Definition
Paraphimosis occurs when the foreskin of an uncircumcised male cannot be pulled back over the head of the penis.
Causes
Causes of paraphimosis include:
- Direct trauma to the area
- Failure to return the foreskin to its normal location after urination or washing (most common in hospitals and nursing homes)
- Infection, which may be due to poor personal hygiene
Uncircumcised males, and those who may not have been correctly or completely circumcised, are at risk.
Paraphimosis occurs most often in children and the elderly.
Symptoms
The foreskin is pulled back (retracted) behind the rounded tip of the penis (glans) and stays there. The retracted foreskin and glans become swollen. This makes it difficult to return the foreskin to its extended position.
Symptoms include:
- Inability to pull the retracted foreskin over the head of the penis
- Painful swelling at the end of the penis
- Pain in the penis
Exams and Tests
A physical examination confirms the diagnosis. The health care provider will usually find a "doughnut" around the shaft near the head of the penis (glans).
Treatment
Pressing on (compression of) the head of the penis while pushing the foreskin forward may reduce the swelling due to paraphimosis. If this fails, prompt surgical circumcision will be needed.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outcome is likely to be excellent if the condition is diagnosed and treated quickly.
Possible Complications
If paraphimosis is left untreated, it can disrupt blood flow to the tip of the penis. In extreme (and rare) cases, this may lead to:
- Damage to the penis tip
- Gangrene
- Loss of the penis tip
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Go to your local emergency room if this occurs.
Prevention
Returning the foreskin to its normal position after pulling it back may help prevent this condition.
Circumcision, when done correctly, prevents this condition.
References
Elder JS. Anomalies of the penis and urethra. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 538.
Link RE. Cutaneous diseases of the external genitalia. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 10th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 15.
Jordan GH. McCammon KA. Surgery of the penis and urethra. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 10th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 36.
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
