Uncontrolled diabetes have been associated with balantis.

Balantis is an infection or inflammation of the skin on the head of the penis. In men who are not circumcised, this area is covered by a flap of skin known as the foreskin, or prepuce. Young boys generally are affected only if they have a very tight foreskin that is difficult to pull back. Balantis can occur in both circumcised and uncircumcised men, although it occurs more commonly in men who are not circumcised.

Diabetes can make balantis more likely, especially if the blood sugar is poorly controlled. High blood sugar causes elevated amounts of sugar in the urine. Sugar-rich urine that dribbles on to the glans and under the foreskin provides a friendly environment for yeast and bacteria.

A variety of infections and skin conditions can cause balantis. These include:

  • Infections with yeast (Candida) or bacteria that live on the skin
  • Irritation of the skin by soap, detergents or spermicidal jelly
  • Sexually transmitted infections, such as herpes simplex
  • Benign (noncancerous) skin conditions such as psoriasis
  • Some types of skin cancer (very rare)

Although balantis can develop on any man, the condition is most likely to occur in men who have a tight foreskin that is difficult to pull back, or who have poor hygiene.

Men who are uncircumcised should practice good hygiene, including fully retracting the foreskin during bathing. People with diabetes can help to prevent balantis by carefully controlling their blood sugar.

If you have diabetes, balantis may be a signal that your blood sugar is not well controlled and men with poorly controlled diabetes have a harder time fighting infections.

If you would like to speak to our team about balantis, please call us on 0161 327 1269 or email us at info@urologyclinics.co.uk.