Hypospadias is a congenital defect that affects up to 3 in 1,000 newborn boys. The condition varies in severity. In most cases, the opening of the urethra is located near the tip of the penis on the glans. More severe forms of hypospadias occur when the opening is at the midshaft or the base of the penis.Occasionally the opening is located in the scrotum or the perineum (beneath the scrotum).
This anomaly is often associated with chordee, a tight fibrous band that results in a downward curvature of the penis seen with erection. (Erections are common with infant boys.)
Some cases are inherited; others result from unknown causes.
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