Unknown condition on the head of my ...

I would like to know if I should be concerned with what seems to be showing up on the head of my penis.  I am a monogamous male, only had two parnters in my life, and never had a issue like this before.  I have not changed anything in my life, other than i am deployed, and seem to be masturbating a lot more than normal.  I'm looking for an explanation as to what it might be caused by, what it is, and should i be concerned?

http://imgur.com/vNk5p.jpg

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms the possibilities of contact dermatitis and lichen planus needs to be ruled out. 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. I suggest you to get an examination done from a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.

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.