Paraphimosis

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Male reproductive anatomy

Paraphimosis is the inability of an uncircumcised male to pull the retracted foreskin over the head of the penis.

Paraphimosis and phimosis are related conditions caused by inflammation and narrowing of the foreskin. The inflammation may be caused by infection and may be associated with poor personal hygiene. Occasionally inflammation develops after direct trauma to the area, which results in swelling. Uncircumcised males -- and those who may not have been appropriately or completely circumcised -- are at risk.

The strictured foreskin is retracted behind the glans penis and left there for some period of time. The retracted foreskin and glans become swollen, making it difficult to return the foreskin to its extended position. If paraphimosis is left untreated, the blood flow to the glans is impaired. In extreme cases, this may result in loss of the penis tip.

Paraphimosis occurs most often in children and the elderly.

Review Date: 06/13/2006
Reviewed By: Neil D. Sherman, MD, Urologist, Essex County, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.