Ss. Phillips et al., CROHNS-DISEASE OF THE PREPUCE IN A 12-YEAR-OLD BOY - A CASE-REPORT AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE, PEDIATRIC PATHOLOGY & LABORATORY MEDICINE, 17(3), 1997, pp. 497-502
We report a case of Crohn's disease with involvement of the foreskin i
n a 12-year-old boy. One year previously, on the basis of clinical fea
tures (diarrhea with blood, perianal fissures) and histologic examinat
ion, a diagnosis of Crohn's disease was made. Subsequently, he develop
ed phimosis and balanitis and underwent circumcision. Sections submitt
ed from the foreskin revealed noncaseating granulomatous inflammation
consistent with Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease and involvement of th
e genitalia is unusual. Only 26 cases including our case have been rep
orted in the scientific literature. We have analyzed these cases with
emphasis on gender, age, clinical features, duration of Crohn's diseas
e, and probable mode of spread to the genitalia. Careful examination o
f sections from genital lesions, including those submitted from the fo
reskin, is essential to detect small isolated granulomas that may then
lead to the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease.