ringworms

Dear Doctor,

do you think it is possible, although unlikely, to have a fungus ( not candida or any other yeast ) inside the urethra ? I am talking about fungi such as ringworms. I have a fungus on the tip of the penis and a feeling inside the urethra. I have taken untifungul medication once and the urethra was a bit irritated for the first 3 days but then got much better. Also the fungus on the tip of the penis cleared out. All urine tests reported no yeast or bacteria but I do not think you can detect ringworms in the urethra.

Regards

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
What you seem to be having is called balanitis.It is an inflammation of the glans (glands) penis. Oral course of antibiotics is needed.In addition,pls don’t use any cosmetics on the penis,instead use some topical antimicrobials like Bacitracin or Lotrimin.Also corticosteroids and topical immunosuppressants can be used but they are available under prescription. Also retract the foreskin daily and soak in warm water to clean penis and foreskin.In case the symptoms persist then pls consult a urologist/dermatologist for evaluation and antimicrobials and steroids prescription.
I hope that helps.Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.