Hypospadias

Hypospadias is a congenital medical condition that affects the development of the penis in males. It is characterized by an abnormal opening of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of hypospadias is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some possible risk factors include:

• Family history: Having a family member with hypospadias may increase the risk
• Hormonal imbalances: Abnormal levels of certain hormones during fetal development may contribute to the condition
• Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals or substances during pregnancy may increase the risk

Symptoms and Classification

The symptoms of hypospadias can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• An abnormal opening of the urethra, which can be located on the underside of the penis, on the scrotum, or between the legs
• Curved or bent penis (chordee)
• Abnormal development of the foreskin

Hypospadias is classified into different types based on the location of the urethral opening:

• Glandular: The urethral opening is located on the head of the penis
• Coronal: The urethral opening is located on the base of the head of the penis
• Penile: The urethral opening is located on the shaft of the penis
• Scrotal: The urethral opening is located on the scrotum
• Perineal: The urethral opening is located between the legs

Treatment and Management

Treatment for hypospadias typically involves surgery to repair the abnormal urethral opening and correct any associated curvature of the penis. The goal of treatment is to:

• Correct the abnormal urethral opening
• Straighten the penis
• Improve urinary and sexual function

Surgery is usually performed in stages, with the first stage typically occurring between 6-12 months of age. Additional surgeries may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

Complications and Prognosis

Untreated hypospadias can lead to complications such as:

• Urinary tract infections
• Difficulty with urination or ejaculation
• Psychological and emotional issues related to body image and self-esteem

With proper treatment, most individuals with hypospadias can achieve normal urinary and sexual function. However, some may experience ongoing complications or require additional surgeries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is hypospadias?
A birth defect where the urethra opens on underside of penis.

How common is hypospadias?
Occurs in about 1 in 200 to 1 in 300 male births.

What causes hypospadias?
Exact cause unknown, but genetic and hormonal factors may contribute.

What are symptoms of hypospadias?
Abnormal urethral opening, curved penis, spraying urine stream.

Is hypospadias painful?
Typically not painful, but can cause difficulties with urination.

Can hypospadias be treated?
Yes, usually with surgery to correct the urethral opening.

At what age is hypospadias typically treated?
Usually between 6 to 18 months old.

What are potential complications of hypospadias surgery?
Infection, scarring, and urinary fistula.

Can hypospadias increase risk of other health issues?
May increase risk of urinary tract infections and fertility problems.

Is hypospadias inherited?
Possibly, as it can run in families, but exact inheritance pattern unknown.