Red, scaly spot on penis

[Ramba76]

I need some help figuring out what kind of over the counter cream I can use to rid myself of this rash.  Although my doctor never diagnosed me, he prescribed an anti-fungal cream with a steroid in it to help clear up whatever I have.  It usually starts as a small red spot and 99% of the time re-occurs in the exact same spot.  It then gets larger, starts to scab up a bit and just stays on my penis.  Its scaley looking when the scab is removed.  It doesnt itch or hurt.  Its very, very annoying and I need some suggestions on what I can use to get rid of it.  I remember the doctor prescribed something called Nystatin.  Can I get this over the counter? I no longer have medical insurance...

[Ramba76]

One more question and I am done.  Would Mycostatin work on Lichen Planus?  It says it has Nystatin in it which worked well for me when I used it years ago.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the oral mucosa, and presents itself in the form of papules(flat spots) or rashes. Treatment is available only on prescription and consists mainly of steroids, retinoids, hydroquinone and phototherapy.

For this you need to consult a dermatologist.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[Ramba76]

Thank you.  It's definately Lichen Planus.  The bad news is I cant get a treatment for awhile as I am now unemployed due to a lay off.  With that said, I was wondering if there is anything I can do to shorten the outbreak via creams or dieting?  I read that the Lichen Planus can stick around for up to 18 months!!  It really wears down your self-esteem having this.  In addition, my current girlfriend doesnt know I have Lichen Planus and I know for a fact she will think it's an STD...this is horrible...any suggestions?  I appreciate your time.

Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This red scaly spot on penis can be due to contact dermatitis, fungal infection causing tine cruris , lichen planus or genital warts(less likely). Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the oral mucosa, and presents itself in the form of papules(flat spots) or rashes.Treatment is available only on prescription and consists mainly of steroids,retinoids,hydroquinone and phototherapy.

I would suggest you to get the diagnosis confirmed from a dermatologist and then start with the treatment. 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.