Diphallia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Males with two penises are diagnosed with diphallia, a rare genetic condition. We will examine the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diphallia in this blog post, which can affect different aspects of their lives, such as urination, sexual function, and fertility.
Causes of Diphallia
The exact cause of diphallia is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a genetic defect that occurs during the development of the fetus. As diphallia is a crucial stage of fetal development, some researchers believe exposure to drugs, infections, or other damage between the 23rd and 25th days of gestation might lead to it.
Congenital diphallia means the disease is present from birth. It cannot be inherited from the parents, nor can it be passed on to the offspring. Diphallia affects about 1 in every 5-6 million live births. Approximately 100 cases have been reported worldwide since it was first recognized in 1609.
Symptoms of Diphallia
Symptoms of diphallia vary depending on the type and degree of penile duplication. A true diphallia consists of two separate shafts, glanses, and urethras, while a bifid phallus consists of two separate shafts, glans, and urethras. In a bifid phallus, the corpus cavernosum (the tissue that fills with blood during an erection) is one instead of two.
Some of the common symptoms of diphallia are:
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Two penises of about the same size, located side by side
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A larger penis located above a second, smaller penis
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A duplication of only the tip of the penis, or the glans
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A cleft scrotum, or a scrotum divided into two parts
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Hypospadias, or an abnormal opening of the urethra on the underside of the penis
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An ectopic scrotum, or an abnormal position of the scrotum
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An abnormality of the pubic bone
Diphallia is often associated with other congenital defects, especially in the urinary and gastrointestinal systems. Some of these defects are:
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A missing or blocked anus
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A double or extra bladder
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A double or extra ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder)
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A misshapen, rotated, or extra kidney
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A bladder exstrophy, or a condition where the bladder is exposed outside the body
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A spina bifida, or a condition where the spinal cord does not develop properly
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An atrial septal defect, or a hole in the wall between the upper chambers of the heart
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A cryptorchidism, or an undescended testicle
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A hernia, or a protrusion of an organ through a weak spot in the abdominal wall
Diagnosis of Diphallia
Typically, diphallia is diagnosed at birth, when doctors notice an abnormality in the penis, scrotum, or testicles. However, some cases may not be detected until later in life, especially if the duplication is mild or hidden by the foreskin. Some tests may be done by the doctors to confirm the diagnosis, including:
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A physical examination, to check the appearance and function of the penises and other organs
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An ultrasound, to visualize the internal structures of the penises and the urinary and reproductive systems
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A blood test, to check the hormone levels and the genetic makeup of the male
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A urine test, to check for infections or kidney problems
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A cystoscopy, to examine the inside of the bladder and the urethra
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A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to get a detailed image of the tissues and organs
Treatment of Diphallia
The treatment of diphallia depends on the type and severity of the condition, as well as the personal preference of the male and his family. The main goals of treatment are to:
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Improve the appearance and function of the penises
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Correct any associated defects or complications
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Preserve the sexual and reproductive potential of the male
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Enhance the psychological and social well-being of the male
The treatment options for diphallia include:
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Surgery, to remove or reconstruct one or both penises, or to repair any other abnormality in the urinary or gastrointestinal systems. Surgery is generally performed in early childhood, but it may be delayed until adolescence or adulthood, depending on the case. Surgical procedures can involve multiple procedures and require long-term follow-up and maintenance.
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Medication, to treat any infections or hormonal imbalances that may affect the penises or the general health of the male.
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Counseling, to provide emotional and psychological support to the male and his family, and to address any issues related to self-esteem, sexuality, or identity.
Prevention of Diphallia
There is no known way to prevent diphallia, as it is a random genetic mutation that occurs during fetal development. However, some general measures that may reduce the risk of birth defects include:
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Taking folic acid supplements before and during pregnancy, to prevent neural tube defects
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Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs during pregnancy, to prevent fetal exposure to harmful substances
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Getting regular prenatal care and screening tests, to monitor the health of the mother and the fetus
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Seeking medical advice before taking any medication or herbal remedy during pregnancy, to avoid potential side effects or interactions
Summary
Males who have diphallia have two penises due to a rare genetic condition. In addition to affecting his urination, sexual function, and fertility, diphallia is often associated with other congenital defects, especially urinary and gastrointestinal ones. Depending on the type and severity of the condition, as well as the personal preferences of the male and his family, the treatment options include surgery, medication, and counseling. It is not known how to prevent diphallia, but some general measures may reduce the risk of birth defects. Diphallia is a challenging condition, but with proper medical care and support, males with diphallia can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
