Conservative treatment of childhood phimosis with topical conjugated equine estrogen ointment.

PURPOSE: To assess the application of topical conjugated equine estrogen for the treatment of boys with phimosis.

METHODS

Fifteen boys with phimosis were included in the study. Conjugated equine estrogen (Premarin) 0.1% ointment was applied on the prepuce once daily. The treatment was continued until the prepuce was fully retractable. The patient was examined each second week up to a maximum treatment of 8 weeks. Retractability and the appearance of the foreskin were graded before and after treatment.

RESULTS

Thirteen of 15 boys (87%) referred with phimosis were successfully treated with conjugated equine estrogen ointment. An adverse effect of gynecomastia was seen in one boy (7%).

CONCLUSION

Conjugated equine estrogen ointment application for phimosis may be an alternative to surgery.