Which statement about phimosis in young boys is true?

Which statement about phimosis in young boys is true?

• A. It requires immediate circumcision
• B. It is always pathologic
• C. Topical steroids worsen the condition
• D. Most cases are physiologic and will retract with time

Answer: (D)

Phimosis in young boys is usually physiologic. At birth and through early childhood, the foreskin remains non-retractile because of natural adhesions between the glans and prepuce, and these adhesions gradually loosen over time. As a result, most cases resolve on their own as a child grows and the foreskin becomes retractable. Intervention is reserved for rare situations with symptoms or complications, such as recurrent balanitis, urinary retention or ballooning during urination, or scarring that prevents retraction. In those cases, conservative approaches like gentle hygiene and, if needed, a short course of topical corticosteroids to help loosen adhesions can be effective; circumcision is not routinely required. Forcible retraction should be avoided to prevent pain, tearing, or paraphimosis. So, the statement that most cases are physiologic and will retract with time is the accurate one.

Phimosis in young boys is usually physiologic. At birth and through early childhood, the foreskin remains non-retractile because of natural adhesions between the glans and prepuce, and these adhesions gradually loosen over time. As a result, most cases resolve on their own as a child grows and the foreskin becomes retractable. Intervention is reserved for rare situations with symptoms or complications, such as recurrent balanitis, urinary retention or ballooning during urination, or scarring that prevents retraction. In those cases, conservative approaches like gentle hygiene and, if needed, a short course of topical corticosteroids to help loosen adhesions can be effective; circumcision is not routinely required. Forcible retraction should be avoided to prevent pain, tearing, or paraphimosis. So, the statement that most cases are physiologic and will retract with time is the accurate one.