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Canine Balanoposthitis
By:
Dr. Bari Spielman
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Section: Overview
Balanoposthitis is the medical term used to describe inflammation of
the penis and prepuce (the sheath of skin on the belly of the dog that covers
the penis). There are a variety of causes of balanoposthitis, including injuries,
bacterial infections, phimosis (constriction of the prepuce opening so that
the prepuce cannot be drawn back to expose the penis), and tumors. Balanoposthitis
is one of the more common problems to affect the prepuce, and occurs more
frequently in intact (non-neutered) male dogs.
What to Watch For
Yellow or yellow-green discharge (pus) visible at the tip of the penis
or prepuce
Sometimes bloody discharge from the prepuce or penis
Possible swelling and inflammation around the penis/prepuce
Excessive licking at the prepuce
Discomfort
Disinterest in breeding
Possibly lethargy, fever and loss of appetite if a serious infection
is present
Diagnosis
Careful inspection and examination of the entire prepuce and penis is
of utmost importance and is often diagnostic. Your veterinarian will examine
the area for injuries, foreign bodies and tumors. A thorough examination
may require sedation or anesthesia of the animal, especially if the dog is
painful in the area.
Baseline tests such as a complete blood count, biochemical profile and
urinalysis are usually within normal limits unless a bladder, prostate,
or systemic infection is present. Urine for urinalysis is usually retrieved
from the bladder so that discharge from the balanoposthitis does not contaminate
the sample.
Bacterial culture and cytologic analysis (examination under the microscope)
of the discharge may be helpful in some cases.
Treatment
Treatment of mild balanoposthitis involves keeping the penis and prepuce
clean and preventing the dog from licking and self-trauma through use of
an Elizabethan collar. In more severe, chronic, or recurrent cases treatment
options may include:
Removal of the underlying cause if one is found, such tumors, adhesions
or abnormal tissue
Antibiotic therapy
Daily irrigation of the preputial sheath with an antiseptic solution
Infusion of antibiotic ointment directly into the preputial sheath
Neutering the dog
Home Care and Prevention
It is important to follow the instructions given to you by your veterinarian.
Continue therapy for the entire recommended time period.
Recurrence is common despite therapy, especially when a predisposing
factor cannot be identified. It is felt that intermittent flushing of the
prepuce and neutering the dog may be of some help in minimizing subsequent
infections, although there are no guaranteed ways to prevent the condition.
"This article has been provided courtesy of PetPlace.com
http://www.petplace.com
the definitive online source for pet news, health, and wellness
information."
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The above information is simply informational.
It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you
in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian
for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.
