Hypospadias

Definition:

A relatively common abnormality of the penis that appears as an abnormal opening of the penis (meatus) on the under side of the penis rather than at the end.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Hypospadias is a congenital defect that may affect up to 3 out of 1,000 newborns. Hypospadias varies in severity. In most cases, the penis opening is located downward from the tip toward the base of the head of the penis. This anomaly is often accompanied by a chordee, a tight fibrous band that results in a downward curvature of the penis seen with penile erection. More severe forms of hypospadias occur when the penile opening is midshaft or at the base.