what is the cause of these tiny itchy bumps?

[mosunknown]

I was recently tested for HSV 1-2.. the results came back positive for HSV 1. Now about 3 months ago I had some itching on my penis from 2 bumps and the Doc said it was folliculitis. He prescribe me some antibiotics and also gave me a shot on the spot, in a week or so the symptoms went away. That's until about a week ago.. the same symptoms recurred but this time the tiny bumps, pimple-like.. were resemblance of a rash near the exact spot of the last outbreak, itching. That's what lead me to further get tested.
To further describe the bumps.. they are pimple-like.. and when viewed closer i can see very thin hairs stemming from the center of the bump and they itch. Once the itching stops they bust and begin to heal, sort of resembling a dimple, little hole in the middle, and the scab over.
Thanks for any help.

[Terri Warren, RN, Adult Nurse Practitioner]

Molluscum is a viral infection caused by the pox virus.  You might want to look at pictures on the internet.

If you've had cold sores, then it is highly unlikely that you would get genital HSV 1, so I think you can take that off your list of concerns and look to other diagnoses for the source of your concerns.

Terri

[mosunknown]

Yes, I've had cold sores on the lip...like twice a year. what is molluscum contagiosum and causes? Thanks. This will be my last question.

[Terri Warren, RN, Adult Nurse Practitioner]

Sorry, but we can't really do well with diagnosing over the internet from symptoms. However, the things that come to mind, given your description are folliculitis (which someone has already diagnosed for your, right?) and molluscum contagiosum is a possibility as well.  have you ever in your life had a cold sore on your lip, nose or chin?  If yes, then the HSV 1 antibody is a result of that.  If you never have, it is possible that you could have genital HSV 1, though that would recur infrequently, likely not every three months.  If you or your provider have concerns that this could be herpes, I would recommend that you get some swabs to have at home and at the first sign of symptoms, you can gather a swab yourself and bring it in to your doctor's office to send to the lab.  However, if your doctor said it was folliculitis, then he/she is the best one to make that diagnosis  because they are there in person and can really see what's going on with you.

Terri