What term refers to the inability to retract the foreskin?

• A. Phimosis
• B. Torsion
• C. Priapism
• D. Urinary frequency

Answer: (A)

Phimosis is the medical term used to describe the inability to retract the foreskin over the glans of the penis. This condition is often seen in newborns and younger children but can persist into adulthood. In a healthy male, the foreskin is usually retractable by adolescence. However, if phimosis is present, it can lead to discomfort, difficulty with hygiene, and sometimes issues during urination or sexual activity.

The other terms provided relate to different conditions: torsion typically refers to the twisting of an anatomical structure, such as testicular torsion, which can cause severe pain and requires urgent medical attention. Priapism is a prolonged and often painful erection that is not related to sexual desire or stimulation, while urinary frequency refers to the need to urinate more often than normal. These conditions do not involve issues with the foreskin, making phimosis the correct term for the inability to retract it.