Topical steroid is effective for the treatment of phimosis in young children.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of non-operative treatment using topical steroids on phimosis in infants and young children.

METHODS

Between June 2003 and May 2005, the parents of the children with phimosis were instructed to apply and massage the phimotic skin with 0.05% betamethasone valerate cream twice daily for 2 months. During non-operative treatment, the patients whose parents were not satisfied with the results would undergo circumcision.

RESULTS

Ninety-two phimotic boys with an average age of 32.62 months (range, 1 to 144 months) were enrolled for steroid application. Of the 92 patients, 79 (85.9%) were satisfied with their results. The other 13 patients whose outcomes clinically improved but did not satisfy their parents finally underwent circumcision. Histologically, circumcised skins of patients initially receiving steroid therapy revealed markedly interstitial edema and slightly increased vasculature. There were no systemic side effects or significant dermal atrophy in the present study.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical steroid treatment for phimosis is successful in young children. This therapeutic approach is a safe, easy, and inexpensive alternative to circumcision.