Successful Management of Zoon’s Balanitis with Topical Mupirocin Ointment: A Case Report and Literature Review of Mupirocin-Responsive Balanitis Circumscripta Plasmacelluaris

Abstract

Introduction: Zoon’s balanitis, also referred to as balanitis circumscripta plasmacellularis (BCP), is an idiopathic, benign inflammatory condition of the glans penis and foreskin most often seen in elderly uncircumcised men. A patient with a biopsy-confirmed diagnosis of BCP who was successfully treated with topical mupirocin ointment is described. Methods: The PubMed database was searched with the key words: bactroban, balanitis, cell, circumscripta, mupirocin, plasma, plasmacellularis, tacrolimus, Zoon. The papers generated by the search and their references were reviewed. Results: Treatments for BCP have previously included circumcision and topical calcineurin inhibitors. Our patient with BCP rapidly resolved after initiating treatment with mupirocin 2% ointment. Conclusion: BCP is a benign dermatosis affecting the glans penis and foreskin. We confirm an earlier observation demonstrating successful management of this condition with topical mupirocin 2% ointment. Previously reported therapies include circumcision, topical calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and laser therapy. However, based on our observations, topical mupirocin 2% ointment therapy may be considered for the initial management of patients with suspected BCP. Prompt response to mupirocin 2% ointment is highly suggestive of the diagnosis of BCP since morphologically similar skin conditions do not respond to this treatment.