Therapeutic target
As far as infectious balanitis is present: Elimination of the pathogens
Therapy recommendations
- Disinfecting penile baths (e.g., KMnO4, PVP-iodine solution, Kamillosan) and Bepanthen cream, if necessary local (topical) antibiosis (antibiotics) in the acute inflammatory flare of a bacterial infection.Oral antibiotic therapy is rarely indicated.
- Local antibiotic/antifungal therapy according to pathogen determination and resistogram (laboratory test to determine the sensitivity or resistance of pathogens).
- For balanitis due to Gardnerella vaginalis infection or anaerobic balanitis (acorn inflammation due to infection with anaerobic bacteria): metronidazole (nitroimidazole) ointment, 2 times daily for 6 days; also metronidazole 400 mg, orally, 2 times daily for 1 week, if necessary; alternatively
- For Candida balanitis: clotrimazole ointment 1% or miconazole ointment 2%.
- For specific balanitis:
- Lichen sclerosus (see below the disease of the same name).
- Balanitis plasmacellularis (Zoon’s disease): corticosteroid-containing ointments with or without added antibacterial agents.
- Balanitis psoriatica (synonym: psoriasis glandis): moisturizers; medium-acting topical steroids (corticosteroid ointments), possibly also antibiotic or antifungal (antifungal).
- Local cortisone therapy for balanitis of non-infectious etiology (cause)Note: Symptoms of precancerous (precancerous) lesions may improve with cortisone therapy, but recur after discontinuation of local therapy.
- See also under “Further therapy”.
Supplements (dietary supplements; vital substances)
Suitable supplements for natural defense should contain the following vital substances:
- Vitamins (A, C, E, D3, B1, B2 B3, B5, B6, B12, folic acid, biotin).
- Trace elements (chromium, iron, copper, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, zinc).
- Omega-3 fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)).
- Secondary plant compounds (eg beta-carotene, flavonoids, lycopene, polyphenols).
- Probiotics
Note: The listed vital substances are not a substitute for drug therapy. Dietary supplements are intended to supplement the general diet in the particular life situation.
