Pasteurella bettyae Infections in Men Who Have Sex with Men, France.

Pasteurella bettyae is a gram-negative bacillus sporadically involved in human infections; its main reservoirs are cats and dogs. A recent publication suggests the possibility of sexual transmission leading to genital infections in men who have sex with men. We report 9 cases in France of genital infection among this population.

Reply to: Erosive balanitis caused by Staphylococcus haemolyticus in a healthy, circumcised adult male.

In this short letter of correspondence, we provide our specialist interpretation of what has been described in a previously published case report. We argue that this case describes a patient with chronic, undertreated male genital lichen sclerosus. If left unchecked, as in this case, lichen sclerosus can cause permanent architectural changes and damage to the affected tissues, and can thus predisposes to secondary infections, including bacterial, such as with Staphylococcus haemolyticus.

Balanoposthitis in children: Analysis of treatment diversity and development of a treatment proposal.

INTRODUCTION: Balanoposthitis in boys with physiological phimosis is common. Publications on the topic are rare and literature provides no evidence-based guidelines on treatment efficacy. With this study, we aim to analyze treatments currently used, physicians' experience regarding the success and thus derive a treatment proposal. STUDY DESIGN: An online questionnaire was created to evaluate practice patterns and experience. A case scenario, open questions and multiple-choice questions were used to allow multilayered answers. Pediatricians, pediatric surgeons, pediatric urologists, and family practitioners were invited to participate. Demographic data and answers to multiple choice questions were analyzed descriptively. Free text comments were analyzed quantitively by coding the text entries and identifying relevant themes. The themes were then grouped into categories. RESULTS: Three-hundred-and-one data sets were analyzed. Predominantly, participants were from Germany and Switzerland, and most were specialized in either pediatrics or pediatric surgery. The analysis revealed a wide variability of treatments. Three main treatment forms were identified: baths, topical antiseptic treatment (wraps, gels), and topical antibiotics. Many participants use combinations of the above. Altogether, 53 treatment varieties and 27 categories were identified, including oral antibiotics and local irrigation. Treatment success was reported to be good for all treatment forms, baths were reported to be the best perceived treatment by the majority of participants. DISCUSSION: The online questionnaire generated valuable data on the wide variety of treatment used for posthitis. The fact that all treatments are reported to be highly effective suggests that little is necessary to treat the condition or that it might even be self-limiting. Further studies will be needed to prove this conclusion. Until those are available, three main concepts should be considered when choosing a treatment: avoid (traumatizing) manipulation, apply antibiotic stewardship and adhere to families' preferences and feasibility. CONCLUSION: We propose baths or local antiseptics, depending on the practitioner's and family's choice as the least invasive alternative. A prospective study to back our recommendation is scheduled.

Camel filariasis (Dipetalonema evansi) and its association with clinical balanoposthitis with reference to prominent changes in clinical findings, serum testosterone, semen analysis, and testicular histopathology.

BACKGROUND: Camel filariasis induced variable clinical syndromes characterized by fever, lethargy, localized dermal lesions, loss of condition, and testicular and scrotal swelling. The objective of the present work focused on clarifying the diagnostic importance of clinical findings, serum testosterone, and semen analysis as well as blood smear and testicular histopathology as a differential tool between only balanoposthitis without filariasis male camels group (OnlyBpgr) and balanoposthitis-filariasis infected male camels group (BpFlgr). The study also monitored the associations between the severity of ticks' infestations in investigated male camels and the occurrence of balanoposthitis only or balanoposthitis with filariasis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The study reported significant correlation between serum testosterone, serum cortisol, and sperm vitality and abnormalities percentages. The study included male camels (n = 250) classified into three groups: healthy control group (Contgr; n = 30), OnlyBpgr (n = 210), and BpFlgr (n = 10). These male camels were clinically and laboratory examined, and skin scraping tests and testicular histopathology were conducted. The study confirmed the association of the changes in clinical findings, whole blood picture, serum testosterone, serum cortisol, and semen analysis, with OnlyBpgr and BpFlgr. These changes were more prominent in BpFlgr than in OnlyBpgr. Skin scraping test results revealed a higher severity of live ticks' infestation in BpFlgr than in OnlyBpgr because, unlike OnlyBpgr, all camels in BpFlgr (n = 10) were suffering from live ticks' infestation. It also concluded the higher efficacy of histopathology of testicular tissues in male camels as a diagnostic tool for adult filaria in balanoposthitis-affected male camels than blood smear because all cases of camel filariasis in the current work were negative for microfilaria on microscopic examination of diurnal blood smear as well as testicular histopathology revealed detection of adult filaria in all camel filariasis associated with balanoposthitis. Strong correlation relationships were demonstrated between serum testosterone, serum cortisol, and semen analysis results. Positive correlations were reported between serum testosterone levels and sperm vitality percentages. However, negative correlations were stated between serum testosterone and each of serum cortisol and sperm abnormalities either in Contgr, OnlyBpgr, or BpFlgr.

[Balanoposthitis in the clinical practice of a urologist and dermatovenereologist: an interdisciplinary problem].

Balanoposthitis is a common inflammatory disease of the male genitals, which occurs more often in uncircumcised men. The cause of balanoposthitis can be an infectious, inflammatory or autoimmune process, as well as traumatization. In most cases, after proper intimate hygiene and the use of neutral moisturizers, the symptoms of balanoposthitis are completely stopped. In the case of torpid course of balanoposthitis and in the absence of improvement after drug therapy, it is necessary to exclude the malignant process. In the review article, the authors present the data of modern scientific research on the qualitative and quantitative composition of the microbiome in balanoposthitis. Differences in the composition of the microbiome were revealed in patients with balanoposthitis and healthy patients from the control group with excess foreskin. It was found that in patients with balanoposthitis, a impaired in hydration of the skin of the glans penis was revealed. Staphylococcus warneri and Prevotella bivia are the most common species associated with balanoposthitis and positively correlate with the severity of the disease. Candida infection, as an etiological factor of balanoposthitis, often occurs in children and may be associated with diaper rash. The prevalence of Gardnerella vaginalis as a pathogen in the male urogenital tract has not been fully studied. Currently, there are no reliable scientific studies that make it possible to attribute G. vaginalis to the etiological factor of balanoposthitis in men. However, it should be borne in mind that balanoposthitis may have a polymicrobial and synergistic etiology with the participation of G. vaginalis and anaerobic bacteria in the lower genital tract of men. The review article is clearly illustrated with clinical examples of the disease from the personal practice of the authors.

Erosive balanitis caused by Staphylococcus haemolyticus in a healthy, circumcised adult male.

Introduction: Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans penis. Balanoposthitis involves both the glans penis and prepuce and occurs only in uncircumcised males. Recurrent balanoposthitis represents a strong indication for circumcision. After Candida infections, aerobic bacteria are the second most common aetiological cause of acute infectious balanoposthitis, mainly streptococci groups B and D, and staphylococci, usually S. aureus . Their clinical manifestations are variable inflammatory changes, including diffuse erythema and oedema. Severe balanopreputial oedema with purulent exudate occurs in painful, erosive streptococcal balanoposthitis.Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are commensal skin bacteria, but are also recognized pathogens of the genitourinary system, mainly related to urinary tract infections. Staphylococcus haemolyticus is one of the main species of CoNS that is part of the cutaneous microflora but is also associated with nosocomial infections. In addition, S. haemolyticus also causes other infections of the male urogenital tract, such as chronic prostatitis and epididymo-orchitis, but it has not been associated with balanitis. Case presentation: A 45-year-old man reports having suffered several episodes of balanoposthitis in the last 3 years, which were treated with topical antifungal treatments alone or associated with corticosteroids. For this reason, he underwent a postectomy by his urologist 8 months ago to avoid further recurrences.The patient consulted for an episode of painful, erosive and exudative lesions on the glans penis and over the post-operative scars lasting 5 days. He had no urinary discomfort or inguinal lymphadenopathy. A complete blood count, biochemical analysis, C-reactive protein (CRP), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and urinalysis were normal. Abundant growth of S. haemolyticus was obtained in the culture on tryptone soya agar with sheep blood and chocolate agar with Vitox media. The MicroScan panel CIM 37 (PM37) was used to study the antimicrobial susceptibilities of the isolated bacteria. The fungal culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar was negative. Based on the antimicrobial susceptibility study, treatment with oral ciprofloxacin and topical mupirocin was started, and the genital infection was completely cured. Conclusion: We present a healthy, non-diabetic, circumcised male patient with severe, erosive and painful balanitis probably due to S. haemolyticus .

Sexual Dysfunction Evaluation in Candidal Balanoposthitis: A Single Centred Observational Study.

Objective: A common genito-urinary infection known as Balanoposthitis presents with mild symptoms like itching or severe complications such as phimosis, ulceration of glans, and foreskin. It can result in four types of sexual dysfunction including Disorder of sexual desire, Disorder of erectile dysfunction, Disorder of satisfaction/premature ejaculation, and Disorder of orgasm. Materials and methods: An observational clinic study including 50 patients diagnosed with Candidal Balanoposthitis based on KOH and clinical findings were recruited and evaluated for sexual function using a standardised questionnaire. Results: The results demonstrated that sexual dysfunction in patients with Candidal Balanoposthitis is a common entity encountered in STI clinics and should be addressed properly as any deficiency in any aspect of sexual health of a patient can lead to emotional and psychological disability impacting the overall quality of the life. The factors like advanced age, Diabetes Mellitus, and poor hygiene measures of genitalia can increase the incidence of candidal Balanoposthitis as well as sexual dysfunction. Conclusion: Candidal Balanoposthitis, a common cause of sexual dysfunction in elderly population takes a toll on emotional and psychological health and certain modifiable factors like diabetic control and hygiene can prevent recurrent fungal infections.

[Ulcerative Zoon's balanitis]. / Balanite de Zoon ulcérée.

Zoon's balanitis is a rare genital dermatosis of unknown etiology, usually presenting as a red-orange macule or plaque with a «cayenne pepper¼ appearance on the glans and/or foreskin. Unfortunately, atypical presentations are not uncommon, including vegetating or ulcerative lesions. Usually, it affects middle-age to older uncircumcised men. Although it is a benign pathology, Zoon's balanitis may be superimposed on another inflammatory or neoplastic dermatosis. As topical treatments are generally non satisfactory and relapses are usual on treatment with-drawal, circumcision remains an interesting option with usually a rapid and complete remission of the symptoms.

La balanite de Zoon est une dermatose génitale peu fréquente d'étiologie inconnue, se présentant habituellement par une macule ou une plaque de couleur rouge- orange avec un aspect en «poivre de cayenne¼, sur le gland et/ou le prépuce. Néanmoins, des formes atypiques, végétantes ou ulcérées, sont possibles. Elle touche plus souvent l'homme d'âge moyen à avancé et non circoncis. Il s'agit d'une pathologie bénigne, mais qui peut se surajouter à d'autres dermatoses inflammatoires ou néoplasiques. Les traitements topiques ne sont pas très efficaces et entraînent généralement une récidive à l'arrêt, tandis que la circoncision permet souvent une disparition rapide et complète des symptômes.

Morphological Patterns of Balanoposthitis and their Correlation with Final Etiological Diagnosis.

Background: Balanoposthitis is a common dermatological condition across the globe, but studies describing clinico-morphologic features and their diagnostic correlates are scarce. Objective: To study various morphological patterns of balanoposthitis and their correlation with etiological diagnosis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on all patients with balanoposthitis visiting the dermatology out-patient department and sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic over a period of 8 months. Detailed history, demographic data, and clinical features were recorded. Relevant investigations were performed. Results: A total of 129 patients of balanoposthitis were studied. Common causes were because of candida (33.3%), bacteria (17.1%), irritants (13.3%), herpes (11.4%), drugs (8.6%), and lichen sclerosus (6.7%). Common morphological patterns were erosion/confluent wet erythema with sub-preputial discharge (24.81%), fissure with superficial pustules (15.5%), fissure alone (13.18%), patchy dry erythema (11.63%), and superficial pustules (intact or exfoliated) with or without underlying erythema (10.85%). Fissure and superficial pustules were the most common presentation of candidal balanoposthitis (51.43%), erosions/confluent wet erythema with sub-preputial discharge of bacterial balanitis (55.56%), and patchy dry erythema of irritant balanitis (50%). Limitations: Detailed investigations such as fungal culture, herpes serology, real-time polymerase chain reaction and histopathology could not be performed. Conclusion: Certain morphological patterns of balanoposthitis strongly point toward final diagnosis which can help in quick diagnosis and early treatment in resource poor settings, especially in STDs.

Growing importance of urogenital candidiasis in individuals with diabetes: A narrative review.

Both diabetes and fungal infections contribute significantly to the global disease burden, with increasing trends seen in most developed and developing countries during recent decades. This is reflected in urogenital infections caused by Candida species that are becoming ever more pervasive in diabetic patients, particularly those that present with unsatisfactory glycemic control. In addition, a relatively new group of anti-hyperglycemic drugs, known as sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, has been linked with an increased risk for colonization of the urogenital region with Candida spp., which can subsequently lead to an infectious process. In this review paper, we have highlighted notable virulence factors of Candida species (with an emphasis on Candida albicans) and shown how the interplay of many pathophysiological factors can give rise to vulvovaginal candidiasis, potentially complicated with recurrences and dire pregnancy outcomes. We have also addressed an increased risk of candiduria and urinary tract infections caused by species of Candida in females and males with diabetes, further highlighting possible complications such as emphysematous cystitis as well as the risk for the development of balanitis and balanoposthitis in (primarily uncircumcised) males. With a steadily increasing global burden of diabetes, urogenital mycotic infections will undoubtedly become more prevalent in the future; hence, there is a need for an evidence-based approach from both clinical and public health perspectives.

Emerging Presence of Culturable Microorganisms in Clinical Samples of the Genitourinary System: Systematic Review and Experience in Specialized Care of a Regional Hospital.

The detection of emerging pathogens responsible for genitourinary infections has increased with technological advances. We conducted a systematic review of publications on the involvement of these microorganisms in genitourinary samples, and we also investigated their presence and antibiotic susceptibility in samples from patients at our regional hospital (Granada, Spain). The MEDLINE database was searched up to 31 December 2020, and a cross-sectional descriptive study was performed of results obtained in urine samples and genital exudates from January 2016 through December 2019. The review highlighted the frequent involvement of Neisseria meningitidis in genital infections, while the data on other microorganisms were consistent with findings in our patient series. The emerging microorganisms most often responsible for urinary tract infections were Streptococcus bovis (58.5%) and Gardnerella vaginalis (23.6%) in females, and S. bovis (32.3%), Aerococcus urinae (18.6%), and Corynebacterium spp. (16.9%) in males; those most frequently reported in genital infections were S. viridans (36.4%) in females and C. glucuronolyticum (32.2%) and G. vaginalis (35.6%) in males. In general, emerging pathogens are resistant to conventional antibiotics such as penicillin. However, there has also been an increase in beta-lactam resistance by the S. bovis group and Corynebacterium spp. The systematic review showed that emerging microorganisms are responsible for only a small percentage of genitourinary infections but are of major clinical interest, with a predominance of the S. bovis group, G. vaginalis, Lactobacillus spp., Aerococcus spp., and Corynebacterium spp. in urine samples and of G. vaginalis and C. glucuronolyticum in genital samples. Given the increasing resistance to antibiotics empirically prescribed in patients with genitourinary infections, it is recommended to create an antibiogram in all cases.

Emerging trends in sexually transmitted diseases in a tertiary care center in Davangere, Karnataka: A five year study.

Background: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a public health challenge, and the epidemiological profile is variable by geographical region and distinct from that of other diseases. Accurate knowledge of emerging disease trends is crucial for formulating effective control strategies. Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective of this study were to identify the changing scenario and emerging trends of STDs in Davangere, Karnataka, by evaluating patients attending a tertiary care center. Materials and Methods: A tertiary care-based retrospective study was conducted by analyzing the clinical records of the attendees presenting to the STD clinic at Chigateri General Hospital affiliated to JJM Medical College in Davangere, Karnataka, for a period of 5 years from January 2015 to December 2019. The collected data were analyzed and statistically compared with other studies. Results: Out of the 614 patients studied, the male-to-female ratio was 2:1, with 30-39 age groups being most affected. Eighty-eight percent of patients were married, with 36.64% giving a history of extramarital contact. Homosexual and bisexual contacts were observed to be 5.21% and 0.65%, respectively. Viral STDs affected nearly half of the patients (49.51%), followed by fungal (28.88%), bacterial (22.63%), and others (3.1%). The most common STD observed was herpes genitalis as seen in 101 (24.48%) patients, followed by candidal balanoposthitis (17.1%). Thirty-three (5.7%) patients were diagnosed with more than one STD. Of these patients, 13 were seropositive for HIV, resulting in a prevalence of 2.12%. Conclusion: The epidemiological profile of STDs is ever changing, and this study found an increase in viral and fungal STDs and downward trend of bacterial STDs comparable to that of studies from other regions.

[Buiatrics: What's your diagnosis?] / Rindermedizin ­ Was ist Ihre Diagnose?

INTRODUCTION: Therapy of a high-grade balanoposthitis with partial penile and preputial prolapse after unsuccessful initial therapy of a ten-year-old dexter bull. Two punctures, about 1 cm depth were found at the base of the prolapsed tissue, which were probably caused by partially perforating U-stitches by the local veterinarian. The highly inflamed and swollen tissue disabled the penis to retract. The prolapse was repositioned and the preputial opening was partially closed using a modified Buhner stitch. Consecutively, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered, and regular wound toilets were performed. After 14 days, the increase in circumference at the base of the prolapse was partially removed and histopathologically identified as pyogranulomatous inflammation. Surgery was repeated two weeks later. Potentia coeundi could thus be re-established. This case shows that regular breeding hygienic examinations are of great importance in order to identify morphological changes in early stages and to treat them adequately.

INTRODUCTION: Traitement d'une importante balanoposthite avec prolapsus pénien et préputial partiel après traitement initial infructueux d'un taureau Dexter de dix ans. Deux perforations d'environ 1 cm de profondeur ont été trouvées à la base du tissu prolabé, probablement causées par des points de suture en U posés par le vétérinaire traitant pour éviter une récidive. Le tissu très enflammé et enflé a empêché le pénis de se rétracter. Le prolapsus a été repositionné et l'ouverture préputiale a été partiellement fermée à l'aide d'un point de Buhner modifié. Consécutivement, des antibiotiques et des anti-inflammatoires ont été administrés et des toilettes des plaies régulières ont été effectuées. Après 14 jours, l'augmentation de la circonférence à la base du prolapsus a été partiellement réséquée et identifiée histopathologiquement comme une inflammation pyogranulomateuse. La chirurgie a été répétée deux semaines plus tard. La potentia coeundi a pu ainsi être rétablie. Ce cas montre que des examens d'hygiène d'élevage réguliers sont d'une grande importance afin d'identifier les changements morphologiques aux stades précoces et de les traiter de manière adéquate.

A descriptive study of the clinical and etiological profile of balanoposthitis.

BACKGROUND: Balanoposthitis is defined as an inflammatory condition of glans penis and prepuce. There are wide variety of etiologies including both infectious and noninfectious conditions. This study attempts to throw light on information regarding clinical and microbiological aspects of balanoposthitis. OBJECTIVES: To study various clinical patterns, etiologies, and predisposing factors of balanoposthitis. METHODOLOGY: A descriptive study was undertaken on 106 cases who presented to sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic with balanoposthitis between November 2017 and April 2019. A detailed history, physical examination, and investigations like KOH mount, leishman staining, gram staining, dark field microscopy, cultures, and other investigations were done wherever indicated. The data collected was tabulated and analyzed. RESULTS: In our study, infectious etiology was the most common and was found in 77.36% cases. About 13.41% of cases with infectious balanoposthitis had multiple etiological agents. Noninfectious etiology was found in 22.64% cases. The most common infectious cause of balanoposthitis was candida, noted in 59.76% cases, followed by herpes simplex virus (19.51%), human papilloma virus (13.41%), and scabies (8.54%). Among noninfectious etiologies, adverse drug reaction (4.72% of total cases) was the most common, followed by lichen planus (3.77%) and psoriasis (3.77%). There was significantly higher incidence of phimosis in diabetic patients with candidal balanoposthitis. CONCLUSION: Identifying the etiology facilitates early treatment and hence reduces the infectivity and transmission of disease and also the disease complications like phimosis. In addition, multiple infectious etiologies should always be kept in mind while evaluating STDs.

Microbiome Profile in Patients with Adult Balanoposthitis: Relationship with Redundant Prepuce, Genital Mucosa Physical Barrier Status and Inflammation.

Balanoposthitis is a common inflammatory condition of male genitalia, while the overall microbiota spectrum and its relevance to contributing factors have yet to be determined. This case-control study included patients with balanoposthitis (n = 26) and matched healthy controls (n = 29), both uncircumcised. Overt fungal infection in balanoposthitis was excluded, swab samples were collected, 16S rRNA gene sequenced and analysed. The profile of the microbiome was further analysed in relation to the clinical severity of the disease and the physical barrier status of the glans penis, including mucosa pH, transepidermal water loss, and mucosa hydration. In general, the microbiota composition was similar between patients with balanoposthitis and healthy controls, while it was different between patients with balanoposthitis and healthy controls with redundant prepuce. Decreased hydration of the mucosa and increased pH were found in patients with balanoposthitis. Staphylococcus warneri and Prevotella bivia are the 2 most abundant balanoposthitis-associated species and are positively correlated with disease severity.

Benzalkonium chloride induced corrosive balanoposthitis in a man requiring clean intermittent catheterization.

INTRODUCTION: Men who require intermittent catheterization may be susceptible to balanoposthitis. Benzalkonium chloride is commonly used to disinfect reusable catheters, but the concentration of this solution is critical. CASE PRESENTATION: A 40-year-old man presented with fever, pus around the glans and foreskin, and difficult catheterization. On physical examination, his urethral meatus was too narrow to insert a catheter. Suprapubic catheterization and 2 weeks of intravenous and topical treatment cured the ulcer of the glans. However, after restarting catheterization, the ulcer of the glans relapsed, and the patient's urethral meatus was completely closed. Circumcision and incision of the meatus were performed, and antibiotics were administered. Unexpectedly, restarting catheterization caused recurrent balanoposthitis. Close inquiry revealed that the patient was using a 10% benzalkonium chloride soaking solution for a reusable catheter, which was a toxic concentration. CONCLUSION: The disinfectant concentration should be confirmed when refractory balanoposthitis is encountered in patients who require catheterization.

Penile amputation and pre-scrotal urethrostomy in a male guinea pig (Cavia porcellus).

Male guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus), especially older animals, are prone to urethritis and posthitis. Severe, chronic balanoposthitis/posthitis can result in fibrosis, localised infection and the deposition of mineralised plaques in the prepuce. Severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as penile amputation and urethrostomy, to achieve resolution.

Penile Tuberculosis in a Bull.

We describe a case of penile tuberculosis in a bull. The prepuce was thickened, firm and pale with multifocal to coalescent caseous nodules, and the inguinal and mesenteric lymph nodes were moderately enlarged. Lesions in the prepuce, penis and lymph nodes were characterized by multifocal to coalescent areas of caseous necrosis and marked granulomatous inflammation. Acid-fast bacilli were seen within necrotic foci and Langhans giant cells. Mycobacteriumtuberculosis var. bovis was identified in inguinal lymph nodes by the polymerase chain reaction technique and by bacterial isolation. Although rare, tuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of granulomatous lesions in the genital tract of bulls.

Acute urinary retention in children.

BACKGROUND: Acute urinary retention is a common emergency in adult patients, foremost in older men. In childhood urinary retention is a rare entity with only sparse literature on the etiology. OBJECTIVE: To assess the etiology and treatment of acute urinary retention in the pediatric population and assess age and sex distribution. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective analysis of all patients admitted to our emergency department with acute urinary retention between 2005 and 2019 was performed. Exclusion criteria were newborns (because of physiologic postnatal oliguria) and postoperative urinary retention during the same hospital stay. RESULTS: 113 children with acute urinary retention (ICD: R33) meeting the above criteria were identified. 16 Patients were excluded because of incomplete medical charts. 97 children were included into the study (age 0.5-18.3 years, mean age 5.3 years). 89 patients had one episode, 8 patients two episodes. A peak around the third year of age was observed. Sex ratio showed a 2:1 male to female distribution. Most common etiology was balanoposthitis (15.5%) and acute constipation/fecal impaction (15.5%). Traumatic urinary retention was found in 11.4% of the cases. Urinary tract infection were found 7.2%. No underlying reason could be found in 12.4% (idiopathic urinary retention). Other causes included febrile non-urinary infection (8.2%), subvesical obstruction (4.1%), vulvovaginitis (3.1%) and urethritis (2.1%). In 50% of the cases of urinary retention under 1 year of age (2 out of 4) an underlying tumor (rhabdomyosarcoma, sacral teratoma) was identified. DISCUSSION: Age and sex distribution were similar to previously published series; however, this study shows a marked difference concerning the etiology: e. g. we identified a significantly higher proportion of functional disorders as a reason for acute urinary retention in childhood. It is hypothesized that this is partly because previously published studies originate from areas (USA, Israel, Iran) with different socio-demographic and cultural background. CONCLUSION: AUR in children is a rare condition with very heterogeneous causes. Although the majority of cases exhibit mild underlying conditions, serious reasons, such as malignant diseases especially in the first year of life, must be excluded. AUR relief without catheterization is a child-friendly approach in cases of mild inflammatory or functional disorders and can help to minimize traumatization.