What's the matter with the white stuff inside the foreskin?

White material in the foreskin may be smegma, or it may be related to fungal infection, bacterial balanitis, allergic dermatitis, or ectopic sebaceous glands. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly for a clear diagnosis to avoid infection caused by self-treatment.

1. Smegma:

Sebaceous gland secretions between the foreskin and glans accumulate to form a cheese-like substance, which is common in people with phimosis or excessive foreskin. It can be removed by gently washing with warm water every day, but be careful not to force it off. When accompanied by redness and swelling, use potassium permanganate solution to dilute and soak. Co-infections need to be treated with topical mupirocin ointment.

2. Fungal infection:

Candida albicans infection causes a white, bean-like discharge accompanied by glans erythema and itching. May be related to diabetes and long-term antibiotic use. Diagnosis requires scraping of secretions for microscopic examination, and clotrimazole cream or oral fluconazole capsules are used for treatment. The spouse needs simultaneous treatment to avoid cross-infection.

3. Bacterial balanitis:

Bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus can produce purulent albuginea, accompanied by painful urination and local erosion. It is more common in people with poor hygiene or low immunity. Culture of secretions can identify the pathogen. Erythromycin ointment is used in mild cases, and cefixime dispersible tablets are taken orally in severe cases.

4.Atopic dermatitis:

White scales and severe itching appear after contact with allergens such as condoms and detergents. A patch test can confirm the diagnosis. Suspected allergens should be stopped immediately and hydrocortisone butyrate cream should be used to treat inflammation. In severe cases, loratadine tablets should be taken orally to relieve symptoms.

5. Ectopia of sebaceous glands:

The inner plate of the foreskin showed pearly white papules, which were physiological ectopic distribution of sebaceous glands. No special treatment is required to avoid repeated friction and irritation. It needs to be differentiated from genital warts, and if necessary, acetic acid white test or histopathological examination should be performed.

You need to keep your perineum clean and dry every day, choose breathable cotton underwear, and avoid using alkaline shower gel. For those with excessive foreskin, it is recommended to undergo circumcision after puberty. When systemic symptoms such as odor, ulcers or fever occur, you should immediately go to the urology department for examinations such as secretion culture and drug sensitivity testing. According to the results, sensitive antibiotics or antifungal drugs should be selected for standardized treatment. During the treatment period, sexual life is prohibited and supplies should be disinfected.