Differential Diagnosis for Edematous Penis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Phimosis: This condition, where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted over the glans penis, can lead to edema due to poor hygiene, irritation, or infection. It's a common issue that could explain penile edema, especially in uncircumcised males.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Balanitis: An inflammation of the glans penis, often due to infection or poor hygiene, which can cause swelling and edema.
- Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation from soaps, condoms, or other products can lead to edematous reactions on the penis.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth, including in the genital area.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Necrotizing fasciitis: A severe, life-threatening infection that can cause swelling, pain, and necrosis of the skin and underlying tissues. Early recognition is crucial for survival.
- Penile fracture: Although not typically presenting with edema alone, any trauma to the penis can cause swelling and should be considered, especially if there's a history of trauma.
- Malignancy: Certain cancers, like penile cancer, can present with swelling or lesions. While rare, missing a diagnosis of cancer can have severe consequences.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV): A sexually transmitted infection caused by certain types of Chlamydia trachomatis, which can lead to swelling and other symptoms in the genital area.
- Filarial infections: Infections like lymphatic filariasis can cause severe swelling (elephantiasis) in various parts of the body, including the genitals, though this is more common in endemic areas.
- Fabry disease: A rare genetic disorder that can lead to the accumulation of a particular type of fat in the body's cells, affecting many parts of the body and potentially causing edema, among other symptoms.