Red raised spot on penile shaft. Need Advice.

I have a single red colored spot on the shaft of my penis just below the head. It is kind of shiny with a red to pinkish coloration. It is slightly raised so it has a well defined edge. The spot is flat on top and has no fluid buildup or anything inside of it. The spot causes no irritation, burning, itching or anything. It just looks bad. It appeared about a week ago. I am sexually active but with only one girl that I know is clean from any diseases. I am 22 years of age and could use some advice on what it may be.

Additionally, I want to add that the skin occasionally peels from that spot. Also, I have patches of discoloration on the scrotum as well. The information on most websites are very vague and I have attempted to look at pictures but was not able to continue that effort very long.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Without examination, confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can be contact dermatitis, rash due to friction rub with clothes, dermatitis (atopic, contact, allergic),excessive sweating causing sweat dermatitis, eczema or balanitis(due to an underlying infection (bacterial and fungal as well as other organisms).

You should also maintain hygiene and try to keep the area clean and dry, wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Also use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. You can also use a barrier cream with zinc oxide paste or calamine lotion or a mild steroid cream like dermacort on the rash.

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 doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.