Symptoms
Penis appears short or absent, especially in infants and young children.
Difficulty with urination, especially if the opening of the urethra is also covered by skin.
Skin folds or excess tissue around the base of the penis.
Skin irritation or infection due to difficulty maintaining hygiene.
In adults, may include difficulties with sexual function.
Causes
Congenital: Often related to abnormal development of the skin and tissues around the penis. Can be associated with conditions such as prune belly syndrome.
Acquired:
Obesity: Excess fat in the suprapubic area can bury the penis.
Lymphedema: Swelling due to lymphatic fluid buildup.
Post-surgical complications: Scarring or tissue retraction after procedures like circumcision or hernia repair.
Inflammation and skin conditions: Infections, balanitis, or lichen sclerosus can cause skin retraction and burying of the penis.
Medicine Used
There is no specific medicine to "cure" buried penis. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and surgically correcting the condition. However, medications may be used to:
Treat infections: Antibiotics or antifungals for infections in the buried area.
Manage inflammation: Topical corticosteroids for inflammatory skin conditions.
Address underlying medical conditions: Treatments for obesity, lymphedema, or other contributing factors.
Is Communicable
Buried penis is not communicable. It is a structural/anatomical condition, not an infectious disease.
Precautions
Hygiene: Meticulous hygiene is crucial to prevent skin infections. Gentle cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by thorough drying.
Weight Management: If obesity is a contributing factor, weight loss through diet and exercise is important.
Avoid Irritants: Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, and tight clothing that can irritate the skin.
Early Evaluation: Seek early medical evaluation if you suspect buried penis, especially in infants or children.
How long does an outbreak last?
Buried penis is not an outbreak condition. It is a chronic or ongoing condition that persists until treated. Acute problems might arise due to infections within the buried area.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: A doctor will visually examine the penis and surrounding tissues.
Medical History: Gathering information about the patient's history, including any underlying medical conditions, previous surgeries, or weight changes.
Differentiation from Micropenis: Determining if the penis is actually of normal size when measured after mobilizing the surrounding tissue.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms depends on whether the condition is congenital or acquired:
Congenital: Symptoms are present at birth or become apparent in early infancy.
Acquired: Symptoms develop gradually over time as the underlying cause (e.g., obesity, inflammation) progresses.
Important Considerations
Psychological Impact: Buried penis can have a significant psychological impact, especially in older children and adults, affecting self-esteem and sexual function.
Surgical Correction: Surgery is often the most effective treatment. Various surgical techniques are available to release the penis and improve its appearance and function.
Specialist Consultation: Consultation with a pediatric urologist (for children) or a urologist experienced in reconstructive surgery (for adults) is essential.
Differential Diagnosis: It is crucial to differentiate buried penis from other conditions, such as phimosis (tight foreskin) or micropenis.