genital rashes

i have dry spots an bumps on the shaft of my penis and it only itches after intercourse. sometimes it becomes so dry that it flakes up and it is very scaly. i need to know what this is? it has been like this for a couple of months now. i have tried calamine lotion and a couple of other creams, none seems to work. can you help me out. i got myself check for std's and none were found. what is this?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

I cannot confirm anything without examination,but it sounds like eczema. Eczema is a form of chronic dermatitis (rash).Allergic reaction is one of the important causes of eczema. Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate eczema a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).

Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.

If still the symptoms do not improve then pls get a clinical examination done by a dermatologist.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing.