Possible Ring Worm on Penis?

[china77]

Hello Dr.

I have had ringworm as a child and remember what it looked like. I have noticed a spot on the head of my penis which looks pretty much the same. It is round/oval in shape, and raised along the edges/lines, with a sort of "clearing" in the center. I noticed this some months back, but it was smaller at the time, and I figured it was just some sort of irritation which would eventually go away.

It has not gone away, and has gotten slightly larger. I've tried using some micatin that I had at home, but it doesn't seem to be doing anything. Ive read some articles about penile cancer and it certainly isn't a lesion or bump. What could it be? How can I clear it? Does it pose any health issues?

[china77]

Thank you! I will try one of these and see how it goes.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

This could be tinea cruris or ringworm infection.

Tinea cruris is best treated with antifungal drugs applied topically. Traditionally creams containing tolnaftate, clotrimazole or miconazole have been used, although newer agents such as butenafine are also used.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jock_Itch

To cure the infection naturally, keep moist and warm areas of the body clean and dry. Change anything the fungus comes into contact with daily, like undergarments and towels. You can use talcum powder to help keep the area dry. Powders with menthol or zinc oxide like Gold Bond medicated powder, and creams containing 1% hydrocortisone should help soothe the itch if not treat the infection altogether.

Let us know if you need any other information and consult your dermatologist if the lesions persist.

Regards.