Stange Symptoms-lost and confused

I am a 19 year old male who has been experiencing weird genital symptoms for the past two months.  I posted here about 3 weeks prior, and in that time I've seen multiple doctors and had changing symptoms, and was hoping I could get some insight into the cause of my symptoms, since there is such a long waiting list for a dermatologist appointment.  

My genital symptoms started about 24 days ago, so I thought it best to list a timeline:

12/15/09 - Had sex with a girl of unknown sexual health early in the morning.  We had sex for about two hours with a condom; however, the condom broke during sex, and I didn't notice for about 1-5 minutes before pulling out, so there was unprotected contact.  I noticed that the skin on the girl's butt was somewhat rough, and I later when I took a closer look I noticed a number of red dots, possibly acne, but not sure. Researched herpes, I don't recall the spots on her butt looking similar to herpes blisters whatsoever, just red slightly raised bumps.  She assured me she was clean. During sex I felt a burning sensation on the tip of my urethra (most likely during the time when the condom had broken).  Two hours later I checked myself and found a raised red irritation running from the bottom of the urethra opening down to the bottom of the glans (glands).  I also had a burning sensation during urination that disappeared after a few hours after sex and never returned. Otherwise, no concerning sensations or rashes at the time.

12/17/09 - At midnight, not even two days later since sexual encounter,  I discovered I had a strange rash on the underside of my penis, an inch under the crown/glans and the size of a nickel.  The skin was slightly red and very scaly (I thought small blisters were forming, but on closer inspection it was just well-defined scaly skin).  The skin is slightly discolored, an odd combination of red and barely noticeable yellow.  The skin is bunched together and loose looking in the rash area.  Often, when I inspect myself, the rash seems to form a /\ (arrow-head) shape across the underside of my penis. Three small cuts were also there (they are tears in the skin, but I wouldn't call them ulcers- there was and has never been any puss or crusting over of these cuts, even to this day).  I recall experiencing a tingling sensation, but I believe that to be a mental symptom since it disappeared after my first doctor appointment.

I saw a doctor (who also called in her associate) on the same day (12/17/09), who inspected the rash and did not think it was herpes or any STD.  They told me to take warm baths and apply vaseline.

12/18/09 - Strange redness started to appear on testicles.  I did not make much over it, since my anxiety focused mainly on my penile rash.

12/20/09 - Saw another doctor.  Penile rash had not improved over the weekend. Doctor was convinced it was not herpes on visual inspection.

12/22/09 - Red rash on testicles worsened after use of hot tub, but had been bothering me as well prior to the hot tub.  Rash on testicles turned from simply red irritated skin to moderately intense burning and tingling, with very small but noticeable red bumps on reddened areas.  Rash on testicles spanned both testicles, but unaffected areas on the testicles were visible.

12/24/09 - Visited same doctor about red rash on testicles, plus flu-like symptoms.  Experienced a dry cough, chills (only for one day), body aches (again, only one day), disorientation, and sore throat. I felt feverish, but never had a temperature greater than 99.4 degrees.  Was tested for both mono and strep - both negative.  Blood test showed elevated inflammation response- doctor interpreted it as an upper respiratory virus.  Told that the scrotal rash was most likely irritation / dermatitis. Told to apply hydrocortisone 1% to rash on testicles.  No improvement on penile rash - in fact, the rash had gotten redder, and seemed to become more prevalent on this day and the next.

*I later returned to the doctor because my flu-like symptoms persisted for more than a week and a half, and was prescribed Amoxicillin.  Flu-symptoms disappeared completely about 3 days later after starting the antibiotic.

12/28/09 - red rash on testicles disappeared - hydrocortisone treatment seemed to help, alleviating burning sensation for the most part, and all redness left.

12/30/09 - Noticed strange prickling sensations on scrotum, only when walking around.  When inspected no redness was found.  Penile rash still prevalent- three same cuts still present.  Strange new symptom on top side of penis- on left upper side of the penis, about half an inch down from the head, there appeared slight reddening of the skin.  Occasionally, very very small white spots appeared in this area (like a pin sized whitehead) that came and went overnight.  This has happened at least twice, with the white spots present at night, but not in the morning. The skin in this area is more sensitive than surrounding areas.  All the skin in this area is loose and wrinkly, which is not like the other healthier patches of skin on my penis.

1/2/10 - Visited doctor once more.  Redness had returned to scrotum, with slight if not noticeable burning.  Penile rash still present.  

1/9/10 - Visited doctor regarding allergies to amoxicillin.  Told the doctor that 24 days had passed and the penile rash was still present.  Received Gonorrhea and Chlamydia urine test (waiting on results to this day).  

As you can see, I'm very confused as to what I'm experiencing.  I have never had any visible blisters, ulcers, or anything that could be popped or scrapped (which makes it impossible to get a swab culture for testing HSV).
The penile rash has never hurt, itched, or burned - however, upon touch with a finger it is raw and more sensitive than surrounding skin.  Rash on testicles still persists to this day, although it has been improving over the course of the past 5 days (less red, considerably less prickling sensation when walking).  

Summary of symtpoms:
1) Red, scaly, loose skin and bunched rash on the underside of penis.  Has lasted for at least 24-25 days with slight changes in appearance.  Cuts / Tears in the skin within the rash have no healed since day one (no scaling, scabbing, puss, blood, or anything from these cuts).

2) Red burning rash on testicles, improves with hydrocortisone.  First appearance lasted about 4-6 days, followed by 2-3 days with no symptoms, then rash returned and has been once again improving with hydrocortisone
treatment

3) Slight red, bumpy and sensitive area of skin on top left shaft of penis.  On two occasions I noticed small white spots that rapidly came and went within a day.  Skin in this area is noticeably more bumpy and loose/wrinkly.

4) Strange reddening of top part of the crown.  No blisters, nothing with fluid or that could be popped - but noticeably red spots.  On close inspection today, two spots on the crown had a strange and slightly noticeable orange/yellowish tinge to them.

5) Strange red, slightly raised areas on head of penis.  Upon inspection of penis head when erect, when I squeezed blood into the head of the penis, I noticed at least a dozen of small red patches spaced around the head of the penis randomly.  These have been present for a number of weeks, but barely visible when not erect (only very slight redness).  

When erect, I cannot see the main rash on the bottom side of the penis, but I can spot the cuts.

I'm sorry for the long post, but I have been in a state of extreme anxiety for the past month with little to no answers.  I've been told by my doctor that since the rash has persisted for nearly a month, it is unlikely to be genital herpes.  Also, a rash that comes and goes with treatment of a topical steroid is certainly not herpes.  However, do any of these symptoms sound similar to herpes or any other STD?

Thank you so much for your advice!

[LeapofFaith]

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[LeapofFaith]

please, anyone?

Update: When i stretched the rash on the underside of my penis, the skin was obviously yellow compared to the surrounding areas, and the rash itself seems to consist of a multitude of incredibly small dots/bumps.  This is only when stretched.  When the rash is left alone and i don't have an erection, the skin is bunched and the rash looks like a collective whole.  

Is this symptomatic of Herpes? Based on what I've researched, herpes blisters are generally larger, and these bumps are only visible under a magnifying glass?  Anyone have any insights into the cause of a yellowish rash composed of tiny individual bumps/cuts?

[Verysaddude]

This is something that only a doctor can really diagnose...I believe herpes could present itself  in this fashion however it would be very unusual...you can take a blood test for herpes, but its too soon for the test to be 100 percent accurate at this point..I would say the odds are against herpes but NOT impossible here so you might want to take proper precautions (if you're going to continue to have sex at this time) until you have been properly diagnosed...

[LeapofFaith]

Thanks, I'm making an appointment with a urologist tomorrow.  The thing is, I've seen 3 doctors on 6 different occasions, and each time they assure me it isn't herpes, but never really give me any insight into the cause of the rash; it's always the same explanation "you've got irritation / possible dermatitis!".  But where I get confused is that I've had symptoms that have basically not changed in the past month.  How could it be irritation if the last time I had rigorous sex was 24 days ago?  

Either way, based on what I've researched an outbreak of herpes does not last 24 days, and so far I haven't seen any signs of healing and/or improvements in the appearance of the rash.  Then again, I have no idea...which makes this all the more frustrating....

[RPM1294]

Hepatitis? Ask a doctor or course, I'm just guessing here. If so, maybe get vaccinated before has time to develop? (Hepatitis has a long incubation period as far as I know).

This is just a complete guess though. I believe there are vaccines presently for Hepatitis B, and hepatitis A.

[LeapofFaith]

Interesting.  I looked up symptoms of Hepatitis A and B (which I match some of, such as yellow skin on the genitals, mild influenza symptoms).  The one thing that doesn't match is that I started developing symptoms 2 days after the sexual encounter of suspect, and sources say it takes 2-6 weeks before symptoms appear.

[Verysaddude]

I understand..when I was infected..I experienced something similar to your case..I got infected in March of 09 and I still haven't had the classical blister/ucler outbreak...I do have constant gential (genital) irritation that has persisted since March 09...the doctors have been reluctant to say the cause of my irritation is HSV2, however I had no issues whatsover until contracting HSV2 in March...ever since then, I have had genital irritation...I have taken tests for almost everything you can imagine...the only thing positive is HSV2...

[sutherlandsarah]

Bare w/ me here kid, because I'm about to sound really callous and unsympathetic.  

Having sex for 2 hours w/ a condom is going to be hard on your penis. It'll probably cause irritation.  Having sex for 2 hours w/ a condom that BROKE?  

The fact that your flu-like symptoms disappeared 3 days after you started taking your antibiotics points to something bacterial in your system that was causing the symptoms. HSV is a virus, it will not respond what-so-ever to antibiotics, or hydrocortisone treatment.  In fact, did you know that if you have a rash, and sit in a whirling pool of water that is hotter than normal body temperature and full of chlorine, it can exacerbate your rash? A typical HSV2 outbreak lasts about 14 days...if that. Any longer, there is something else wrong.

You seem like a very intelligent young man. Really.  Get off the interwebz, and stop googling STDs.  Your mind is working over time to come up w/ reasons for a rash that is most likely superficial. Listen to your doctor. Please. If you don't, you're going to end up driving yourself insane.  Life is TOO SHORT FOR THAT!

And please, for the love of your sanity...PLEASE carry some KY jelly w/ you along w/ your condoms if you plan to embark on 2 hour sex-capades again!

[LeapofFaith]

Haha, thanks sutherlandsarah.  A good kick in the *** was what I needed.

I recognize that 2 hours of sex can cause irritation.  Thing is, in the two weeks prior to the suspect encounter, I had had at least 6 hours of sex collectively (three sessions of 2 hour long sex) with a different partner whom was tested and was completely clean.  In those two weeks I never developed any other irritation besides a pimple.  It was only until I had accidental unprotected sex that I started experiencing real symptoms (not even two days...).  Then again, I suppose it could be a cumulative effect, and the skin on my penis just decided to go ahead and give up?

And you're right regarding rashes and hot tubs.  I guess in my anxious state of mind I immediately took any genital symptoms and warped it to convince myself I had genital herpes.  At this point I'm not particularly concerned about the rash on the testicles; its come and gone twice now in the span of two weeks or so, and responds to hydrocortisone.

As for the flu-like symptoms, I was already improving when I started the antibiotics, but all symptoms disappeared completely 3 days after starting them.  I guess you must be right it was some sort of bacterial or viral infection, since influenza like symptoms caused by the herpes virus wouldn't respond to antibiotics.

Again, thank you.  Your insight has given me some ease.  I'll make an appointment with a urologist / dermatologist, and try to pinpoint exactly what the hell is going on down under.  I hope that my theory is correct, and that a rash with no blisters and ulcers that's lasted this long is simply due to irritation and dermatitis (I suppose its important to mention I live on the east coast, and its freezing out).

Verysaddude: could you elaborate more on what your symptoms were?  From what I've read, herpes does not cause constant irritation for periods longer than 1-2 weeks.

[LeapofFaith]

Update:

When I was inspecting myself under a magnifying glass, I noticed a few strange things. There are two separate spots on the left and right of the top side of my penis.  When not erect, the skin on these spots seems to consist of small vein-like (vein like in shape) protrusions, except they are white.  When I stretch the skin, there are no veins under the skin that match up with these protrusions perfectly.  It's very strange.  The skin in these areas are a bit more sensitive than other areas.  But these protrusions are very very small, again capillary vein-like in size.  Is this symptomatic of some yeast or bacterial infection?

[gracefromHHP]

first off put away the magnifying glass! totally unnecessary!  what you are describing while using it is normal anyways.  Actually I'd call off the crotch watch - most of what you are describing sounds like you are spending way too much time looking at your penis. limit yourself to just a cursory look over things before or after you get out of the shower every day.  


you've seen multiple providers now who don't think your symptoms look like herpes. They also don't sound like herpes.

I'd stay away from hot tubs for awhile too since if this is a fungal infection, they can just cause a worsening of the fungal infection as well as give you new infections too.

definitely if you have THAT sort of stamina, you need to be using lube both on the inside and the outside of the condom when you use it. Consider stopping and replacing the condom with a new one periodically during the sex act too.  I'd relube your female partner periodically too no matter how wet you think she might be staying. you rub your hand over your arm for 2 hours, you are going to get red and sore too I guarantee you and the skin on our arms is much thicker than the skin on our genital areas :)

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Thanks grace.  I usually replace the condom every 30-45 minutes, but I (stupidly) kept the same condom for two hours on this one occasion, which would probably explain why it broke and I ended up unprotected for a few minutes.

And I'm sorry, I'm obviously a bit neurotic when it comes to my sexual health.  I noticed the odd skin on the top side of my penis but had trouble determining what was going on, so I thought it best to inspect it with magnifying glass.  Obviously, it hasn't done much for my sanity, but I thought if I collected enough observations/symptoms I could pinpoint what condition I'm experiencing.

Also, I had a question regarding lubrication: if I lube the inside of the condom, doesn't that raise the chance of the condom coming off during sex?  If so, I'd just end up right at the beginning :-/

And once again, you're totally right about the irritation.  My only question is, can irritation from sex last 25 days?  I've avoided sex since then, and infrequently masturbated (3-4 times in a month since irritation).  If anything, since the first rash appeared, more areas of irritation have appeared, and none have improved thus far.  Applying hydrocortisone 1% made little to no difference, and moisterizing the area doesn't seem to help much either.

[LeapofFaith]

Interesting thought occured; my symptoms seem to fit Lichen Sclerosus.  I've had a change in the color of the head of my penis, and certain spots on the shaft as well, from flesh to white.  I haven't particularly mentioned them before because I thought it may be caused by blood-flow or lack there of to certain places on the penis.  But after comparing myself to a number of pictures of circumsized men with Lichen Sclerosus, I can't help but think I may be experiencing the disease.  I was wondering, Grace, is you knew anything about Lichen Sclerosus- do you think the skin disorder could cause tears, loose skin, discoloration, redness on the underside and urethra of the penis?

[gracefromHHP]

a little lube inside the condom increases feeling for you and also keeps the condom from breaking.  

it sounds like a fungal infection more than anything which topical steroids won't help. I'd skip the urology appointment and go for a dermatologist instead at this point. if this was lichens, the topical steroids would've cleared it up too - one more reason why it's doubtful it's lichens.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Interesting.  I tried making a dermatologist appointment weeks prior; of course there are so many people with skin issues and not enough doctors, the only open appointments are at least 4 weeks away.  Would it still be appropriate to see my normal doctor and ask them to take a skin sample to test for fungal infections?  Or is that something only a specialist can do?

[gracefromHHP]

your regular doctor should be able to look for fungus. it's literally scraping off a little bit of skin with a needle and looking at it under the microscope.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Following your advice I visited the doctor today.  

For the past two days I've been applying anti-fungal cream to the penile rash.  Obviously, there hasn't been a huge improvement (in such a short time), but I think I see a bit of improvement.  Nevertheless, I went to the doctor, who inspected my rash and came to the same conclusion as the other doctors I've seen: irritation, dermatitis, non-specific irritation, doesn't look like any STD.  I asked the doctor if it looked typical of a yeast / fungal infection.  He said no, and didn't feel it necessary to take a skin sample to test for fungal.  

However, since this is week 5 of continuous symptoms, he thought it was appropriate I get tested for HSV-1 and 2.  I asked him if that would be accurate, considering the suggested time before testing is 12 weeks.  The doctor said that since I've had flu-like symptoms and genital symptoms, and that I've been tested before for HSV-1 and 2 (negative for both), if I were infected with the virus I would show relatively elevated antibody levels and have negative blood test with which to compare levels.  Do you think that I can trust the results of the Igg blood test (which I'll get back next friday)?

[gracefromHHP]

no one thinks this looks like herpes going on.

it's still way  too early for accurate testing for herpes with the blood test.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Hey grace,

I took your advice and called off the 'crotch watch' for the past four days. I've also been applying anti-fungal cream to my penile rashes, which seems to help a bit.  

However, I inspected myself this afternoon and found that on the top side of my penis, in the area that was simply red (as I've described before), there seems to now be a number of very very small vesicles.  I say "very very small" because just a glance you cannot see them, but on closer inspection and with lots of light I can see multitudes of tiny grouped vesicles running pretty much across the top side of my penis, near and around the circumcision line.  The skin on which the vesicles are present is redder and more sensative than the rest of the skin above my circumcision line, but I have no pain, itching, or tingling in that area.

Also, for the past 2 weeks or so, I have had a prickling sensation on both sides of my scrotum that only affects me when I walk. It isn't a tingling sensation, more like very minute pinches and tinges of sensation periodically.  Looking at the scrotum itself I can't see any bumps lumps or vesicles, and only occasionally see a bit of redness.  I've tried hydrocortisone (makes it worse, gives me a strange tingling sensation), calamine & HCl cream (burns my scrotum), Gold Bond medicated powder (helps but doesn't get rid of the prickling), and simple vaseline.  Some of these creams and powders alleviate symptoms, but they always return over the course of the day.  The skin of my scrotum itself is often tight and tough in texture.

This is day 35 of my genital symptoms.  I honestly can't put my finger on what this is.  The grouped vesicles point to herpes, but I've had redness in that area for 35 days and never had anything vesicle like before.  Do you have any insights?

[Verysaddude]

This could very well be a genital herpes infection. These symtpoms are similar to mine when I became infected.

[LeapofFaith]

Verysaddude, did you experience these genital symptoms for 5 weeks though?  I've had two rashes for the past 5 weeks but never any vesicles up until this point.

Also, I received my Igg and Igm test results today: I wasn't given the numbers, but the doctor said they were completely negative.

[petal130]

Grace won't steer you wrong - go with her advice.

You got your results - you're negative - so let herpes go!

[LeapofFaith]

Thanks petal.  I know I took the blood test at 5 weeks, but that was on recommendation from my doctor.  Anyways....it's just frustrating that I've developed new symptoms that are so vague.  I'm going to the doctor's tomorrow, see if I can get a swab (just for safety's sake, a second opinion/test couldn't hurt).  I'm also applying hydrocortisone to the rashes- I recall having similar bumps/vesicles on my scrotum 4 weeks ago, and hydrocortisone helped clear that.  Nevertheless...there seems to be no end to this nightmare...

[Verysaddude]

Yes, my symptoms have persisted much longer than five weeks. My symptoms occur to this day (10 months). There are others who have also experienced similar symtpoms to this after contracting genital HSV2. However, since your tests both have come back as negative, then it could be something else (even tho you need more time for those tests to be completely accurate). I'm only telling what my experience is as I'm sure you're coming here to hear all experiences that may relate to yours. As Grace said, its still way too early for completely accurate testing with the blood test. Still, follow-up with your doctor for any symtoms (symptoms) you might have. If you have any questions for me, let me know. I'll be glad to answer any questions you might have...

[LeapofFaith]

Update:

It seems that the hydrocortisone may be helping.  This is only day two of treatment with hydrocortisone, but the vesicles are less visible/red today than they were yesterday.  The vesicles are still somewhat visible, but honestly look more like shiny spots of skin than small blisters.  I also talked to my doctor, who said that hydrocortisone would exacerbate a herpes break out, and since the rash isn't getting worse, I suppose it's safe to say it isn't herpes. Regardless, I'm still seeing a doctor today to inspect the rash.

[LeapofFaith]

Update #2:

Saw the doc today; at first inspection he thought it might be pearly penile papules, Then again, he said that the vesicles were far too small for herpes, and even a bit too small for pearly penile papules.  He said he was confident it wasn't herpes; said he couldn't take a swab since there was no open sore.

I've recently returned to college, and in doing so changed soaps (from Dove/Dial to Irish Spring).  The doc thought the rash may have been exacerbated by the soap?

I was told to use goldbond / baby powder on both the penile and scrotal rashes.  

I was wondering though, can herpes outbreaks present with ONLY genital symptoms, and no other symptoms? (i'm wondering especially about lower back pain and swollen groin lymph nodes).  I haven't experienced any other symptoms (I feel perfectly healthy) besides this new genital rash.  

[LeapofFaith]

Day 3....vesicles/shiny skin still there....part of the rash on the topside of my penis which used to have vesicles on it no longer has visible vesicles, but is hurting.  Last night I realized I couldn't lie on my stomach since it hurt the skin on the top side....now walking irritates this one area of redness....

Not sure what to do....it's now relatively painful to the touch and makes walking a chore...

[gracefromHHP]

sounds like it's really irritated at this point. you were seen and they didn't think herpes.  

grace

[LeapofFaith]

You're right, that's the one consolation I have at this point.

I was also wondering; what is the typical progression of a vesicle in a herpes outbreak?  Do the vesicles appear and soon (within a day or two) form blisters?  Or can they stay small and/or not change for numerous days?

Also, unfortunately, I discovered another change today.  And it must have just developed today, since I inspected myself both this morning and this afternoon.  I now have an another area of redness, this time located right between where my penis and testicles meet (on the underside of the penis).  The redness runs a few centimeters on the testicles, as well as a few centimeters up the base of my penis, with two or so red spots located slightly higher (mid-lower shaft, underside).  The skin is redder than its surroundings, and on the red skin itself are a few small, very red spots/blotches.  They are painless to the touch.  To my eyes there appeared only one vesicle like spot, but it was relatively small and didn't seem particularly fluid filled.  I inspect myself after every shower, and do NOT recall seeing this earlier this morning (nor this afternoon), so I'm assuming it developed in the last few hours.  

I've been using gold bond medicated powder on my testicles and underside of my penis of late (past 3 days).  I'm wondering if this rash could be simply dry skin, or if its symptomatic of genital herpes?

[LeapofFaith]

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[gracefromHHP]

this sound more fungal than it does herpes or at least some other sort of dermatological issue.

At this point it's best to stop inspecting several times a day and just follow up next week with a provider.  You've only been using the topical steroid for a few days so far - give that a chance to work too.  these things don't usually get better in a day or two - have to have patience.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Thank you grace.  I really do appreciate your advice, and it has provided a great deal of relief in this time of anxiety, of which I am very, very appreciative of.

At this point I'm sticking with a vaseline - goldbond mixture.  I'm moisturizing the top side of my penis as well as the red rashes on the scrotum / base / lower underside of penis, while using gold bond on scrotum and upper shaft.  

Since Wednesday the vesicles on the top side of my penis have lessened a bit, and the skin is no longer hurting- in fact, when I touch the affected skin on the top side it feels rough / leathery, and I have barely any sensitivity there.  The skin itself isn't very red anymore either.  This morning when I inspected myself I saw that on a few parts of this rash there appears to small areas of dry/peeling skin where the vesicles used to be.  

The few red spots that were on the  underside / lower shaft have since turned into a collective small rash that is red and consists of many very very small vesicles.  No pain or even sensitivity in this area.  The red rash on the testicles has also turned redder since Wednesday, but no vesicles are particularly visible in this are.  Again, no sensitivity on these rashes, I wouldn't have noticed them besides inspection.  

I'm wondering about the position of these rashes; I've read from some sources that genital herpes is not common on the testicles, and very rarely on the base of the penis (where the two new rashes have developed).  Are these just speculations or are they generally true?  I've also noticed that on the top side rash, I've never had any vesicles and/or rashes below the circumcision line; I wonder if that has any significance?

And I will follow your advice and follow up with my provider.  Thanks again.

[gracefromHHP]

I think you just need to erase herpes from your vocabulary at this point.  

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Hey Grace,

So I thought it'd be good to give an update.  Following your advice I saw a dermatologist last Friday, who examined me and diagnosed my symptoms as a yeast infection.  She prescribed me Ketoconazole Cream 2%, as well as Desonide Ointment, 0.05%.  She told me to apply the Ketoconazole cream to my scrotum and the base of my penis twice daily for 3 weeks, while I was instructed to apply the Desonide Ointment once a day to the shaft of my penis.  For the week before I saw the dermatologist, I had been using Gold Bond medicated powder on the scrotum, which got rid of the prickling discomfort altogether.  Since I started using the Ketoconazole cream the prickling has gone done significantly, but has not yet disappeared.  I have been applying these creams for 7 days.  The redness on the scrotum has gone down, but the original two rashes on the bottom side and top side of my penis have not disappeared.  I do have a follow up appointment with the dermatologist in 2 weeks, but I thought I'd ask your opinion in the meantime.

I realize that a yeast infection may take a good amount of time to go away with treatment, but I was wondering about the persistent penile rashes.  I still have these two sensitive patches of skin that are still looked inflamed.  The dermatologist said it looked like irritation, and thus gave me Desonide Cream, but I was wondering, since this is a yeast infection shouldn't I be treating the penile rashes with the Ketoconazole cream instead?  I don't see why she gave me a strong cortisone, since I've had these rashes for 45 days and I very highly doubt its irritation, which would have disappeared by now.  The rashes also look worse after a shower: just general redness.  As the day progresses they look less inflamed.  I have been using Dove sensitive skin soap and lightly washing the genital area.

Again, I realize it may take time, and the ketoconazole cream has made a difference on my scrotum.  Still, I'm a bit puzzles by the prescriptions from my dermatologist.  Any thoughts?  I have no been sexually active what-so-ever (not even masturbating in the past 4 weeks), and I'm wondering why these rashes are not improving...

Thanks again Grace!

[petal130]

At this point you've been seen by a medical doctor who's diagnosed and treated you. It makes the most sense to follow up with him/her with the exact questions you pose grace. None of us can replace a doctor who's examined/diagnosed you, and ultimately it's not herpes going on.

[gracefromHHP]

I've personally had irritation rashes for 3 months myself. Took topical steroids and special bandages to get rid of it.  Don't underestimate what fungus and irritation can do!

trust the dermatologist you are seeing. you have absolutely no reason to doubt what she's told you. Continue your treatment as prescribed.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

I sure hope so.  I am certain I don't have GH at this point.  My symptoms have been consistent for over 51 days, and I've seen 6 doctors and have a solid diagnosis / treatment.  However, I am going to get tested again next week (week 9) with an IgG blood test, just for safety's sake.  Also, I'll follow up with my dermatologist in two weeks, and give time for my symptoms to get better.  I'll be sure to update the site when I know.

And one tangential question: I've noticed that my testicles have, in the past few weeks, been somewhat shriveled.  It's hard to describe.  My testicles don't seem to hang as low as they used to.  I generally check myself at random intervals, and practically every time the skin on the scrotum seems scrunched and rough to the touch.  I do live in a cold wintry town, but even in a warm house for hours the skin doesn't relax.  I'm just wondering if this sounds typical of any condition, or a possible side effect of the medicated creams I'm using?

[gracefromHHP]

your testical issues don't sound like anything abnormal at all.  

grace

[gracefromHHP]

also there's no reason to test at the 9 week mark. if you feel the need to test for herpes, wait another month or two. stop testing needlessly.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Thanks Grace. I was just wondering if it sounded like anything.  I get strange waves of tingling sensation every once and a while on the testicles, which got better since I started using the medicated creams, but hasn't gone away completely.  But I'm glad to hear it doesn't sound like anything serious.  I'll be sure to follow up with my dermatologist.

Also, I was worried about testing.  I've been avoiding sharing cups etc... to avoid any chance of contracting HSV-1 orally, simply because if I contact the virus orally in the next few weeks it could show up on my test results and make it even more ambiguous whether or not it is a genital or oral infection.  I suppose that's the reason I want to test at week 9 instead of week 12 or 16, to avoid contracting HSV-1 orally in that time.

[gracefromHHP]

at your age the only way you are going to get hsv1 orally is through romantic type kisses. You won't get it through sharing food and drinks once you are past the toddler age.  I don't recommend sharing drinks in general, especially not this time of the year -codl and flu germs are easily transmitted through doing so.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Huh.  Interesting.  Is this because our immune system strengthens over time?  So the only way I could get HSV-1 orally is through kissing.  Haha, I guess I just won't kiss anyone for the next 3-4 weeks.  Thanks again Grace!

[LeapofFaith]

Hey Grace,

I was just thinking back on some of my symptoms, and I was wondering:

when I presented with small bumps/vesicles and red skin that was painful to the touch for a day or so, when symptoms started to lift, by the end of the week the affected skin actually started to peel.  And I mean this in the sense that every part of the penis that had the small bumps / inflamed skin actually peeled off a layer of dead skin.  There wasn't any remnants of sores at all, the rash disappeared after the skin was peeled off.  I'm guessing this is not Genital Herpes like in any way, right?

[gracefromHHP]

this sounds exactly like how a fungal infection works, not herpes.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Hey Grace / Medhelp,

Sorry to bother you again.  Thought I'd give an update.  As you know, I was diagnosed 4 weeks ago with a yeast infection (dermatologist inspected it, prescribed me anti-fungal cream and desonide 0.05% cream).  I applied the anti-fungal cream for the past 4 weeks and practically all redness / tingling / prickling sensation has left.  Followed up with the dermatologist and she was satisfied with the improvements.  She inspected the sensitive patches of skin on the both the top and underside of my shaft and said they were scars from a good deal of irritation, and will disappear but only with time.  She gave me the green-light to start up my sex life again.

In context, I was recently on vacation from my university.  When I saw the dermatologist I had been home for about a week, but made an effort to use the same soap, although I did lack in maintaining the same detergent.  However, I inspected myself every once and a while and saw nothing of concern.  Nevertheless, I've recently returned to my university (this is day 2), and I've discovered a bit of redness / itching on the base of my penis.  But more importantly, it seems as if I'm starting to develop exactly the same symptoms as I experienced before, when I returned from my winter break:

(synopsis: the skin on top and underside of upper shaft of my penis has become insensitive (very much less sensitive than other parts of skin on penis), and the skin feels leathery and is redder than usual.  There also seems to be more peeling going on than usual.  Again, if you look back at my earlier posts, you'll see I have practically exactly the same symptoms but w/o a plethora of little red bumps).

My only concern about this is that I'm actively treating my yeast infection with ketoconozole 2% twice daily, both on the shaft and the scrotum.  As you pointed out, Grace, these symptoms are fungal in origin, and my dermatologist agreed with you.  However, it just seems strange they would occur again despite active treatment.  

I guess my theory right now has to do with context.  I got similar symptoms last time I transitioned from home to college.  I suppose its far too coincidental that this happened again after a home-college transition.  Only this time I kept the same soap.  I did not keep watch on detergent, but then again I showed no signs of this during my stay at home (9 days in total), only until returning back to school.  Obviously, I'm over the scare-theory of Herpes, but I suppose I still have that persistent voice in the back of my head.  What do you think?  If it doesn't clear up in the day or so I'll contact my derm., but obviously won't get an appointment for weeks.

Thanks again!

(Also: hypothetically, if this was GH, this would be my 3rd-4th OB in 10 weeks.  I'm guessing that this is an inordinately large number of OB's?)

[gracefromHHP]

still no reason to suspect herpes.

follow up again with the dermatologist if symptoms persist to help rule out contact dermatitis and such too.  who knows what is growing in a dorm bathroom or on the carpets and nooks and crannies there....lol.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Thanks Grace.  I guess I just needed to hear someone say that.  I know its not Herpes, the symptoms and time-line of the onset don't fit GH.  Still, it gets really frustrating when you never have a real break from genital symptoms.  I will certainly follow up with my dermatologist if it doesn't improve.  Guess I just need to talk to somebody is all.

Thanks again, for all your help.  It really has helped.

[gracefromHHP]

So many things can go on in the genital area. I've often said I prefer my herpes to most of the other stuff I've had going on down there - I can take 2 pills a day and keep the herpes under control so much easier than I can some of my other issues!!

Best thing to do is to just stop looking at things too sometimes. The more you look, the more you see and the more you worry.  

grace

[LeapofFaith]

You're right about inspection.  I know I shouldn't keep looking.  I guess the problem is that I have to apply the anti-fungal cream twice a day, and can't help but look at what I'm applying it to.  

I was wondering if psoriasis could possibly fit these symptoms?  I know that what was affecting my scrotum was a yeast/fungal infection, since it did improve dramatically with 3 weeks use of the anti-fungal cream.  However, the leathery skin / peeling / redness only occurs on the shaft, and I'm wondering if it's separate from the yeast infection?  Then again, since this exact same thing happened to me the last time I transitioned from home-to-school, I'm guessing its probably something concerning contact dermatitis.  Do these symptoms match something like irritation caused by detergents?

Thanks again!

[gracefromHHP]

all sorts of genital dermatitis out there. continued follow up with the derm doc in time will help narrow things down better.  

can be detergent related, soap related, even something in the water in one location and not the other as well as changes in temperature and such. so many things you do differently at school than you do at home.

btw - your grades better be good or you are grounded!!  you had midterms yet?

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Huh.  Chances in water can have that affect?  I go to college 15 minutes away from where I live so I don't know if there's a difference in water between towns.  Food for thought I guess.  Symptoms are getting better (this is day 4 and everything has cleared up, for the most part).  The skin never blistered, but it was wavy, leathery/smooth to the touch, and you could see some small strange wrinkles, not to mention redness. But it never hurt.  The skin has started to peel a bit more now too.  I know it seems like I don't have much to worry about, but I really do want to start up my sex life again, and I don't want to have anything that I could spread, be it an STD or yeast infection. It'd just be nice to be normal for once in 3 months...

As far as grades go, I hope you're not picky.  Just had midterms this week too.  It's been hell.  Ack.

[gracefromHHP]

yes changes in water can make a difference if you have sensitive skin or something going on that is making your skin more sensitive than usual.  Different minerals in different pipes and different ingredients from system to system.  

I am picky about grades :)  though they don't mean squat once you are out of school, they give us something to brag about while we are in school!

grace

[LeapofFaith]

I wonder if I should apply the desonide 0.05% cream and/or hydrocortisone to the affected skin?  I've just kept on applying the anti-fungal cream, which seems to help a bit (compared to last time), but hasn't gotten rid of it.  I read that psoriasis can be brought on by physical stress / injury to a certain area.  Is this true?  If so, I did have a good deal of sex within 3 weeks (about 9 hours total, 4 sessions of 2-hour, 1 session of 1-hour intercourse). Then again, I'm probably grasping for something I can treat, as opposed to actually having it.

Haha, interesting way of looking at grades.  Right now I am just trying to survive.  Its gotten to the point where I'm conscious for 16 hours of the day, 13 of which are spent studying and/or test taking.  Blah

[gracefromHHP]

There you go bragging about that sex again....he he he

I'd stick with the antifungal through the weekend and if things aren't better, then consider something else.  If you want to also use the topical steroid once a day this weekend, no real harm by doing so either.  It's ok to use them both.  

Just remember, you need to do all this studying so that you can pay $100k for college to get out and get paid $35k for a job ;)

grace

[LeapofFaith]

So I've been using the desonide cream for the past two days.  Quite a bit of improvement, almost all of the leathery/red skin has dissipated.  Not quite sure if that is due to the desonide cream or just improvement with time (last time I got these symptoms, they lasted about 7 days, and I switched to the desonide cream on day 4).  I'm really wondering if this is something like psoriasis, simply because yeast is generally out of the question due to active treatment.  That or contact dermatitis.  I guess contact dermatitis makes sense, since this ONLY happens when I return to school.  Problem is I can't get a dermatologist appointment for at least 3 weeks, so having active symptoms during the visit is unlikely.  Is there any specialist I can see about getting tested for contact dermatitis?  Oh, and I think I will be getting tested again next week (week 12) just for confirmation of my 4 week test results.

And oh boy do I look forward to entering the work force.  4-6 years more in college, than straight on to work.  Goodbye vacations!

[gracefromHHP]

you can try calling the derm clinic, explaining the issues you've been having and letting them know they are back to see if they have any same day appointments. If things are already getting better though at the moment, no sense in rushing there.  hopefully in time you'll figure out what is causing this and be able to avoid it.  it's not always quick and easy unfortunately.

grace

[Mistakeguy789]

I wish we could have a quick and easy way.  

I am glad Leap you are close to the 12 week mark.  I can't wait to hear your results!

[LeapofFaith]

I'll call the dermatologist's office tomorrow, ask about testing for contact dermatitis.  Today also marks the first day I'm off the yeast infection cream on my scrotum.  Feeling a bit insecure about what will happen :-p.  Really hopeful that the rash down there is gone for good, it'd be nice not to have to make my daily routine around medication applications.  

Also, this is week 11.  Do you think its reasonable that I get tested now?  I know I could wait for week 12, but I'm feeling a bit impatient.  If it really makes a difference, I will wait though.  What are your thoughts?

And thanks for the kind words MG

Thanks again

[gracefromHHP]

they won't test for a contact dermatitis. it's typically just a visual exam based on how the rash looks.  

yes you could test now if you wanted for peace of mind.

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Ah!  Great to hear I have the green light.  I'll make an appointment to get the blood test done tomorrow, or at least sometime this week.  

Also, before I ask this next question, let me apologize for the liquid-crazy that is about to pour out of my mouth, in a sense.  Alright, here goes:
I am aware of what I believe is called Sebaceous Glands, which are benign bumps on the base / shaft of the penis.  I am also aware that hair follicles can sometimes have gland-like appearance on the base / shaft of the penis.  I was just wondering: on the base of my penis, there are at least 1.5 dozen little bumps.  They are mainly located on the base (where penis and scrotum meet), and on the underside and both sides of the lower shaft.  Now, most of these bumps / glands have hair growing out of them.  Meaning, for most of these bumps, there is a single hair growing out of the center.  I'm assuming these are hair follicles.  However, there are a few of these bumps that do not have hair, or at least no visible amount of hair, growing or sticking out of them.  These bumps are identical in appearance of the other bumps except for the hair, and are located in / amongst the other bumps.  I'm guessing these are just sebaceous glands and/or other hair follicles that simply do not have hair growing out of them?  What concerns me is I haven't shaved down there since November, which begs the question of where the hairs are?  I'm not terribly well informed on HPV, and not sure if genital warts can occur in this area.  To my recollection I've had these bumps with hairs since as long as I've inspected myself, and most definitely before.  What concerns me is that I don't recall having bumps with no hairs.  I guess my question is, is this worth seeing a doctor about, or am I just answering my own question?  How does HPV present in males?  Are there any other symptoms?  And I suppose finally, do genital warts come and go, or do they stay until surgically removed / treated?

Again, sorry.  Over-reactive imagination.

Best Regards, and thanks again for helping!

[gracefromHHP]

these sound normal to me. show them to the derm doc when you are there for peace of mind.


grace

[LeapofFaith]

Hey Grace,

Got tested today.  Should hear back next Wednesday.  I'll be sure to post the results.

Thanks again!

[LeapofFaith]

By the way, I had a question: at this point, can I resume applying moisturizer to the penis everyday?  I don't want to re-catch any yeast by providing moisture, etc...

Thanks!

[gracefromHHP]

if the skin seems dry and irritated by all means apply the moisturizer again. you are using one the derm recommended right?

grace

[LeapofFaith]

I haven't had a moisturizer recommended by a derm, no.  Do you have any suggestions as to which brand I should use?

[gracefromHHP]

I"m a fan of aquaphor myself for the genital area. zinc oxide also works but it's think and white which can look a little goofy when folks see you naked.  

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Aquaphor it is!

Thanks again

[LeapofFaith]

Got my test results today.  I am 100% negative for both HSV-1 and HSV-2.  
The test results were shown to me, but I saw no numbers, only NEGATIVE.  It was a type specific IgG test.  Regardless, I am negative, and I can finally put to rest the fear of having Genital Herpes.  Grace, thank you so much for your help, it really has helped me get through the past three months.  I will be sure to recommend this site to my friends, if they ever run into such a misfortune.  I cannot thank you enough.  Hopefully this will be the last you'll hear from me :-p.  Then again, I may be back with a few questions regarding contact dermatitis, etc...  I'll try not to bug you again :-D.

MG: I'll take you up on that beer, bud.

Thanks again...

[Mistakeguy789]

Leap,

Wow!  I am extremely glad and thrilled.  I know that this was bothering you and that you have been able to prove you are negative.  Go out tonight and celebrate or wait until friday.  

Oh and for once I am happy to say this "I told you so!".  I will get that beer out to you tonight.  Just give me the address lol.

Congrats again!

[gracefromHHP]

can I say I told you so? he he he

Glad you have the actual results now though so you can finally put it all to rest and move on :)

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Yeah, its a great feeling.  Although I still have some irritation going on, I know no for a fact it is not Herpes nor any other STD, and as such it can be treated / cured, and will not plague me for the rest of my life.  I finally feel normal again :-D.

Again, thank you so much for your help, this has been an incredible resource and I can't imagine how I could have made it through the past three months without it.

Thanks.

[gracefromHHP]

I hope you continue to check in periodically to help others in the same boat you were in dear - let them know that really it isn't all herpes and to keep pursuing further work ups :)  

grace

[LeapofFaith]

I sure will.  Believe me, I won't forget you guys

[LeapofFaith]

Hey all,

Just had a question.  Since I've gotten my results I've totally called off the 'crotch watch', and resumed my sex life.  Recently, I've resumed masturbating about twice a week.  Yesterday, I did so for about...30 minutes or so.  Tonight, I noticed a single, relatively small bump/pimple that is oval in shape, and practically white all over.  I'm not concerned its Herpes or any STD, but I'm wondering if this pimple like bump is a result of masturbation?  I never used to get these pimples before.  I used a condom instead of tissues.  Oh, and the bump is completely painless.  It appears to also be in the same place as other pimples that have appeared before in the past (during my whole yeast infection symptom stage).  Any thoughts?

Thank you!

[LeapofFaith]

top

[Mistakeguy789]

Clogged pore maybe from the condom?  Just shooting a guess.  Hope all is well Leap.

[LeapofFaith]

Thanks MG.  Keep in touch man, I haven't heard from you in a while.

[Mistakeguy789]

same leap.  I got on aim didn't see you on.  

[LeapofFaith]

Hey all,

I'm back!  I had a question for you grace; past couple of weeks, since I stopped posting, I have been relatively symptom free.  I still have some remaining spots of irritation (bottom middle of shaft, and top middle of shaft).  These spots are stubborn and have been there for at least 4 months, although they seem to have improved a bit over time.  As you know I got tested at 11 weeks and was HSV 1 and 2 free, so whatever it was/is isn't herpes.  I also saw my dermatologist about two weeks ago for a follow up exam, and she said she saw nothing of concern.  I wondered if the spots of irritation may be mild genital warts, but she saw nothing of concern and said that although she couldn't test to confirm, I had no symptoms that indicated HPV.

Tonight, however, I've noticed that on my scrotum I have the all too familiar symptoms of small red, scaly, shiny dots that are closely spaced.  This only covers a small area on the bottom left of my scrotum.  I have no symptoms (no itching, burning, tingling, or sensation when walking), but I noticed that this skin is redder than the surrounding skin.  Do you think it could be the same yeast infection from before?  I haven't had sex since the incident in December.  I just wanted to know, is it likely/possible that the yeast infection could return?  I applied ketoconazole for about about 6-8 weeks after I was originally diagnosed, and I haven't shown any symptoms up until now.  

Just wondering.  Kinda frustrated that the yeast infection could come back.  Do you think it could be because of warming temperatures, which I'm assuming makes my genital region moist for extended periods of time?

Also, regarding these spots of irritation.  Both areas are discolored (slightly redder / yellower) than surround areas of skin, and slightly more sensitive to the touch.  These areas have a great deal more wrinkles in the skin.  Meaning, the skin in this area is wavy and forms many ridges and valleys when not erect.  I'm just trying to understand what could cause this.  The dermatologist said it was irritation / scars, and it would improve with time.  But more than 4 months have passed, and I'm an impatient person :-p.  

And one last question: if one were to have genital warts, would the warts become less visible when erect?  The skin in the irritated areas looks normal when erect, only wavy / wrinkly when not erect.

Sorry for the long post, and thank you so much for your help!

[gracefromHHP]

could be yeast. could be an eczema type issue.

if it looked like warts, I'm sure the derm doc would've said so since it would've been a chance for them to remove them and make an extra buck or two from you.

almost done with school?  grades in the range of which I would approve?

grace

[LeapofFaith]

Yup, about 3 weeks left of school.  Can't promise my grades will be up to par, since I've been a bit distracted and unmotivated this semester.  But it happens :-p.  

I'll be making a an appointment with a dermatologist in the coming weeks to get this checked out, get a second opinion on whether or not this is recurrent yeast infection, and possibly get more of a thorough medical opinion on these irritation spots.

Thanks for your input, its always so helpful!