|
Canine Balanoposthitis
By:
Dr. Bari Spielman
|
|
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."
**********************
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.
