In March 2024, a 60-year-old married man from Taichung, Taiwan, sought medical attention after experiencing severe genital pain during a shower, during which hardened particles fell from his penis. Initially mistaking these for kidney stones, he consulted urologist Dr. Chen Zhaoan at the Zhaoan Urology Clinic. Upon examination, Dr. Chen discovered a substantial accumulation of smegma—a combination of dead skin cells, oils, and moisture—under the man’s foreskin, estimated to have built up over 30 years. Sam’s Alfresco Coffee+5newsflash.one+5www.abdpost.com Amerika’dan Haberler+5Health+5Sam’s Alfresco Coffee+5newsflash.one+5
The patient had a notably long foreskin that he had never retracted, leading to the prolonged accumulation. Dr. Chen noted that the smegma had hardened over time, emitting a strong odor and resembling calcified material. He emphasized that the patient was unaware that the foreskin could be retracted for cleaning, highlighting a lack of basic genital hygiene knowledge. newsflash.one+3NY Breaking+3Sam’s Alfresco Coffee+3NY Breaking+3What’s New Today+3newsflash.one+3
Smegma is a natural secretion that can accumulate under the foreskin in uncircumcised males if not cleaned regularly. While not inherently harmful, excessive buildup can lead to irritation, inflammation, and infections such as balanitis. Proper hygiene involves gently retracting the foreskin and washing the area with mild soap and water daily. Cleveland Clinic+4Healthline+4Healthline+4Verywell Health+3Health+3Healthline+3
Dr. Chen reported that cases of excessive smegma buildup are rare but not unheard of, encountering similar situations approximately every two years. He urged men to maintain regular genital hygiene and seek medical advice if they experience any abnormalities. What’s New Today+3NY Breaking+3Sam’s Alfresco Coffee+3newsflash.one
This case underscores the importance of genital hygiene and awareness, particularly among uncircumcised males, to prevent such extreme accumulations and associated health issues.
