opinions!!

I have been feeling very depressed lately, so much that I don't want to go living anymore.  When I was a child, I had gotten a rash on my penis and testicles at around the age of 12.  I have not seen a doctor yet.  I have gone through puberty, but my penis has not grown, I am 18.  I know it is because of this rash, that my penis hasn't grown.  I am know considering using anabolic steroids, hoping that my penis will grow. But before this, I need to see a doctor for my condition, but I want to know before hand, if the steroids will help my situation.  If it doesn't, then I don't know where to turn.  Please help!

[HFHS MD-JM]

Harry,

     I am not aware of any conditon/rash that inhibits the growth of the penis.  I do suggest that you have a medical evaluation as soon as possible to clarify this for you.  For the record, anabolic steroids(testosterone) have been shown to decrease testicle mass(atrophy).  Steroids are very dangerous and should never be taken without the supervision of a physician.

     It sounds like you are very depressed as well and should have a psychiatric evaluation/treatment.  If you are having suicidal thoughts then you should be seen emergently.  This information is intended for educational purposes only.  Please see your personal physician for specific health concerns.

Sincerely,

HFHS MD-JM

Keywords:  Depression

[NRO-Sx]

I agree with HFHS that a psychiatric evaluation will help with the depression.  However, I take issue with the blanket statement that steroids are very dangerous.  I would refer HFHS to an article in the Journal of Affect Disorders (1998 Mar;48(2-3):157-61) entitled "Testosterone replacement therapy for hypogonadal men with SSRI-refractory depression by Seidman SN, and Rabkin JG.  Hypogonadal hypogonadism can be treated by a competent clinical endocrinologist.  Don't lose hope Harry,
NRO-Sx, MD/PhD

[Alex]

Mumps orchitis presents with redness around the scrotum and
often results in primary hypogonadism (as NRO-SX has suggested).