Preputiti

Preputiti is a term used in some medical texts to denote the prepuce, the foreskin, and surrounding preputial tissues that cover the glans penis in uncircumcised individuals. The term is used to refer to the anatomical structures involved in concealing and protecting the glans, as well as the folds of skin and mucosa that comprise the foreskin.

Anatomy and development: The foreskin consists of an outer epidermal layer continuous with the penile shaft skin and an inner mucosal layer facing the glans. It forms a retractable sleeve that meets at the preputial orifice and is connected to the glans by the frenulum. Retractile range varies among individuals and often changes with age; in infancy, adhesions to the glans may persist and gradually resolve.

Function and clinical relevance: The prepuce protects the glans and contributes to lubrication and sensitivity as part of the genital seal. It can harbor secretions and irritants and is subject to irritation or infection in some cases. Clinically important conditions affecting the preputial area include phimosis (narrowing of the foreskin opening) and paraphimosis (retracted foreskin causing constriction), as well as balanoposthitis (inflammation of the glans and prepuce). Inflammation of the preputial tissues may be described as preputitis in some contexts.

Diagnosis and management: Diagnosis is based on physical examination and patient history. Treatment depends on the underlying condition and can range from improved hygiene and topical therapies to antibiotics for infection. Surgical options, such as circumcision or preputial reconstruction, may be considered for persistent or complicated cases. Terminology for preputial tissues varies by language and medical specialty.