Penile Itch

I recently developed a somewhat painful mostly itchy rash on my penis, it is not STD related. My wife suggested that my son had something that looked similar awhile back and his Dr. said it was a fungus and prescribed Foungera Nystatin Cream USP, the stuff had not expired so I have been using the rest of the tube for the last 3 days, it's not helping, it even seems like it may be spreading. Any idea what this could be? I have never had an issue like this before. It had been at least 4-5 days before it started since I had sex and that was of course with wife.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be contact dermatitis, eczema or fungal infection. Keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical calamine lotion can also be used.Application of mild steroid cream like dermacort also helps. For the itching take some over the counter antihistaminic like benadryl or Claritin. In case the symptoms persist then antifungals may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.