Chronic penile irritation

Dr.

I've had this issue for several months with some improvement very gradually and after a few doctor visits.  I've had a mild irritation/discomfort on the head of the penis just to the right of the opening on that side.  Not really pain, burning or itching, just a discomfort or sensitivity mainly when clothes rub against it.  I first tried hydorcortisone which seeemed to make it worse by drying out the skin and making it flakey-some vaseline took care of the dryness.  Doctors perscribed anti-fungal/microbial creams which didn;t help much.  I definitely overused all these ointments which may have made things worse.  I finally saw a dermatologist who couldn't find anything outwardly obvious-he thought maybe an HPV infection which isn't always visible to the naked eye or possible damage done from all the ointments.  He gave me desowen gel which provided the most relief but never 100%.  Anatomically things look ok-there is a small oval of discoloration in that area but no redness or bumps.  Any ideas?  

Of course worst case always comes to mind like herpes but due to the duration and symptoms, myself and the dermatologist don't think it's that.  Is it common for penis irritation to last so long and what might be another cause?

Great forum by the way-very informative! Thanks much

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Unfortunately, I don't have much to offer.  It doesn't sound like an STD, including herpes.  Beyond that, I can't speculate, especially when a dermatologist has examined you and didn't have an answer.  You might follow up with him/her, or seek the opinion of a second dermatologist.

Thanks for your kind comment about the forum.  Sorry I can't be of more help this time.

HHH, MD

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