Psoriasis on penis

[Jack495]

Hello, I have recently been diagnosed with psoriasis on my penis.  I am a 36 year old uncircumcised male.  The only area affected is the area covered by the foreskin.  It has become sometimes painfull during intercourse or even during an erection, regarless of the fact that I use a cort. based cream and moinsturizing creams.

I am wondering if a circumcision would help my condition.  I know that there is no cure for psoriasis.  When I asked my doctor, he said that there was not any litterature saying that a circumcision would help, so he felt that he wasn't in a position to say ''yes'' or ''no'', and I totally respect that.

Any feedback or second opinion would be appreciated.  Thank you!

[Jack495]

Hello Doctor,

Thank you very much for your reply.  My psoriasis was diagnosed via a biopsy, and when I asked my dermatologist if a circumcision would help, he wasn't in a position to give me a Yes or No.

I thought that maybe exposing the area would help eleviate the redness/peeling, but I guess it would not.  So maybe a circumcision is out of the question?  I will keep using the moisterizing cream daily.

I would welcome any other advice you would have to give me.

Thank you once again

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Treatment of psoriasis in this area is difficult because strong topical steroids cause atrophy or thinning of the skin. Milder steroids such as 1% OTC hydrocortisone and prescription hydrocortisone with iodoquinol creams are helpful. Stronger steroids used for short duration are also helpful. Very severe cases may need systemic treatment with a pill such as methotrexate or Soriatane or even a biologic drug. Circumcision is not the answer for penile psoriasis.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.