Red Spot on Penis?

Doctor Rockoff,
I wrote into the STD forum to Dr. HHH a couple of weeks ago regarding anxiety and worries over a sexual encounter with a woman I did not know very well.  If you would like to read for information, the date was 3/7/09, “Herpes Anxiety”.  The encounter took place on Feb 3 and was both protected and unprotected.  About 10 days later, I noticed a red spot of skin on the top of the shaft of my penis just below foreskin area.  It was about half a centimeter or so, no blisters that I saw, no ulcers and no pain.  Looked like irritated skin and possibly dry.  It has faded somewhat, but is still present 5 – 6 weeks later.  It is a slightly red area with no pain.  I have tried Neosporin and lotion, but doesn’t seem to fade away.  Obviously, I have concerns about Herpes.  Dr H said that chances were 1 in 1,000 or less, I did not catch anything and to move on.  I am trying to, but this red area is a constant reminder and I am constantly checking it.  There has been nothing else, ever, on my genitals which is why this is concerning.  I have had some random red spots with white heads mostly on the back of upper thighs and where butt meets leg.  I have gotten these before and think they are just folliculitis?  No pain, looks like pimple, fades to purple area after 2 – 3 weeks or goes away.  The real concern is the red spot on my penis shaft.  Does this sound like anything to be concerned about?  What could this be?  Can I put anything on it to help heal and fade it?  It is redder after showering, etc. and blends more with the skin at other times except slightly deeper color.  No itching or pain. If it is healing or new skin, how long would it take to blend in color?  The woman I was with said she was free of STD and had an OBgyn appt shortly before our encounter.  I am still worried.  My dermatologist is a woman and it would be a bit embarrassing to approach on this.  Do you think I should be worried or that it may be contagious? Thank you kindly for your advice.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

This doesn't sound like anything at all.  The fact that it has stayed around is evidence against herpes, not for it, since herpes goes away in 7-10 days.  But in fact there's nothing in your story to suggest herpes in the fist place.  I suggest you find a male dermatologist if you feel you need one, and get this looked at so you can forget about it and move on.

Thanks.

Dr. Rockoff