Conservative treatment of childhood phimosis with topical conjugated equine estrogen ointment

Abstract 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.