Phimosis is a narrowing in the opening of the foreskin, which prevents the partial or total discovery of the glans. In particular, there are two types of phimosis: physiological and pathological ; the first is the most common.
The term “phimosis” comes from the Greek root “phimos”, which means “snout.” About 95% of baby boys are thought to have difficulty retracting the foreskin. However, at 3 years 90% of them are already physiologically normal.
The types of phimosis
The most general classification is made according to the cause that originates the condition. From this point of view, there are two types of phimosis: physiological, which is present from birth naturally; and the pathological, which derives from an infection or trauma.
There are also two other classifications: one based on the degree of foreskin retraction and another based on the degree of stenosis, that is, its narrowness. In the first case, there are two types of phimosis:
Relative. When the foreskin is only partially retracted.
Total. When there is no retraction of the foreskin.
Now, in the case of tight foreskin, there are three types of phimosis:
Pointed. If the diameter of the hole is very small and can hardly be appreciated.
Cicatricial or annular non-retractable. When the skin around the hole is thickened. These cases are usually preceded by an inflammation of the glans or balanoposthitis.
Cancel. When the hole is narrow, but the condition does not match either of the previous two cases.
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