A FOLLOW UP QUESTION

[SILVERBOX]

THIS IS A FOLLOW UP TO THE QUESTION COPIED BELOW

Here is the follow up:

Dr Rockoff, thank you so very much for the response. The sitiuation occurred as described. I do believe that but for the guilt and anxiety I would see the symptoms in a different light.

I do have a brief follow up if you don't mind. This morning the chafing was more pronounced and actually appears as a series of small horizontal cuts which are now quite red,raw and somewhat moist perhaps from rubbing as they do itch. I note you have often described herpes as starting with blisters and I am curious what they look like and whether this additional description would alter your analysis

I realize with my level of anxiety a visit with a dermatologist will be a good idea and add to peace of mind. This will take about a week, in the meantime is Lotrimen ointment a good idea and if the area responds to topical Lotrimen what does this mean about about the cause, I assume herpes and other std's would not respond at all to lotrimen. (AH THE ANXIOUS MIND WORKING OVERTIME) Thanks for your time and consideration.

HERE IS THE ORIGINAL QUESTION:

Thank you for taking the time to condsider my question. I recognize this may not be the most informed question, however, I am scared and fear does odd things.

I am in a long term monogamous relationship. Approximately 2 weeks ago I attended an event at a gentlemen's strip club and received a few "lap dances". I was fully clothed in a suit and the dancer wore a thong. There was no direct skin to skin contact to my genital area.

I now have 2 small red pimples in the hair above my penis. I also have an area of red chafing on the top of the shaft and some redness over a small portion of left scrotum. I also have a large red pimple on the back of my neck which does not seem to be healing and a very small clear pin head sty on the bottom of my left eye,.

My wife is being very supportive and actually thinks my fears are silly and guilt driven. She sugggests the redness is common and likely due to moisture left after sex during which we use lubricated condoms. She thinks the thing on my neck is a pimple or skin tag.

I have conviced myself I somehow contracted herpes and fear is running the show and perhaps causing me to look for symptoms. I could use some sound medical advice, do any or all of the above sound consistent with herpes or any other std, what further diagnostic work-up is warranted, does the activity I describe place me at risk for herpes or any other std

Once again, thanks for taking the time to consider this question

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Horizontal cuts don't sound like herpes.  Lotrimin only works for fungus, which is not under consideration.  You can't contract herpes through pants.  I suggest applying nothing medicated, just vaseline, and leaving the area assiduously alone.  Se a doctor if you're still concerned.  And for your own sake, avoid strip clubs!

Dr. Rockoff