Penile itching with rash

I'm 28 years old. I have a 3 week history of a rash and intense itching isolated to the shaft of my penis (relative sparing of the glans (glands)). The rash is patchy and pink, and usually dry with fine flakes and not raised. Occasionally it weeps and appears inflamed/raised when particularly intense, mainly after activity or at night. It is not particularly painful. No discharge or pain on urinating. There is no particular smell associated. I have no rash elsewhere on my body. Otherwise, I'm generally healthy. No sexual contact in 8 months, but have had unprotected sex (used non-barrier contraception) with previous long-term girlfriend. Stringent cleanliness and aerating boxers have proved unhelpful.

Could you please offer an opinion on my condition?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

It sounds like eczema. It is a form of chronic dermatitis (rash).Allergic reaction is one of the important causes of eczema.

Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate eczema a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).

Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.

If still the symptoms do not improve then pls get a clinical examination done by a dermatologist.
Hope it helps .Take care and pls do keep us posted in case you have any additional queries.Kind regards.