Penile microbiome in histopathologically confirmed lichen sclerosus: a comparative study of urethral and preputial swabs.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The study examines the microbial compositions of patients with lichen sclerosus (LS) compared to control group, and individuals with other penile conditions. The aim is to address the critical question regarding the etiology of penile LS and to explore the potential involvement of the microbiome in its pathogenesis.

Methods

In this prospective single-centre study, 73 uncircumcised male patients undergoing circumcision for phimosis were enrolled between January 2023 and April 2024. Foreskin and urethral swabs were obtained prior to surgery to isolate Candida, aerobic, and anaerobic microorganisms and sexually transmitted pathogens. Patients were categorised into LS (n = 44) and non-LS (n = 29) groups based on histopathological findings. Additionally, a control group,

SUBMITTER: Sternau M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12575504 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature