Zoon Balanitis — SCE Dermatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateGenital DermatologyZoon BalanitisSCE Dermatology

A 50-year-old man has Zoon balanitis (plasma cell balanitis). He has a well-defined glistening erythematous plaque on his glans. Biopsy shows dense plasma cell infiltrate in the dermis with thinned epidermis. What is the recommended treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Circumcision — often curative

Zoon balanitis (plasma cell balanitis) is a chronic benign condition affecting uncircumcised men, presenting as a well-defined, shiny, erythematous-orange plaque on the glans/prepuce. Histology shows characteristic dense band-like plasma cell infiltrate with epidermal atrophy, lozenge-shaped keratinocytes, and siderophages. Circumcision is the most effective treatment — it is often curative by eliminating the moist occluded environment. Conservative alternatives include topical Tacrolimus 0.1% or topical Imiquimod (less consistent results). Topical corticosteroids may provide temporary improvement. The condition must be distinguished from erythroplasia of Queyrat (SCC in situ — biopsy mandatory) and fixed drug eruption.

Reference: BASHH; BAD