HERPES or Other from a Massage

[Copter1]

Hello. I am a healthy GWM. Recent, on a business trip I received a sensual massage (with a hand job at the end) from a massage guy. I was nude, he wore his underwear. He never got off or was nude during the entire massage (which was a good experience overall at the time). I suffer from high from anxiety and for some stupid reason I got a little mental about the experience in the days after. So much so that I started getting shingles on my back. I went to my doctor and he said I was experiencing shingles and to take some Valtrex for a week and I should be fine. I chatted with the massage guy too and he said not to worry as he was disease free (tested for everything last month and no reason to think otherwise). But, I know people lie in this world and this caused me more anxiety for some reason. Lastly, last week I went in for an anonomous test for HIV/Syphilis/HSV-2 IgG (10 days after the massage). All were negative.

My question to you... Could I have caught something from the massage guy? Are the shingles just from my stress? Should I get tested for anything else (or any other tests)? Is this all in my head?

Your advice is much appreaciated.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome to the Forum.  I will address your questions but final resolution may require another visit to a health care provider.  Here are my thoughts:

1, this was not a risky encounter for acquisition of any STD, including HIV.  There was massage and masturbation but not penetration and no contact with his genitals or secretions.  STDs are spread by direct contact.  STDs are not a concern from what you describe and there is no need for further testing.

2.  Perhaps you are having an outbreak of herpes zoster but if so, it sounds rather unusual.  Are the lesions on one side of your body?  Herpes zoster is recurrent chicken pox which breaks out along the path of nerves on one side of the body or another and does not cross the midline.  Diseases which ca mimic zoster (shingles) include folliculitis and allergic manifestations related to the oil or lotion used during your massage.  If you have any doubts about the diagnosis of shingles or it is not getting better, I would suggest that you consider a return to your doctor or a visit to another doctor such as a dermatologist.

Bottom line.  there was no HIV or STD risk to you from  massage and masturbation by the masseuse.  Not sure what the rash on your back is but have made several suggestions.  I hope these comments help.  EWH

[Copter1]

First of all, thanks for responding. To be honest, I cause (or make worse) many things in my life by over thinking. So, for that, I am sure I am making my current situation worse than it might be.

Regarding the shingles, my doctor thought that it was on teh onset, it was only afecting my right side and there were only 4-5 little red makes (like pimples). The skin was a bit tingly and warm though. I think he based his diagnosis on that. To day (2 days on the medication), 2/3's have gone away and I do not see any new one's. The burning sensation is pretty much gone too. Does this sound correct?

Regarding the STDs...thank you for putting my mind at ease.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

If it is getting better, I would not "rock the boat". What it might or might be however is hard to say. Take care.  EWH

[Copter1]

Hello.

While I have your ear...

1. Just to be clear (you tell me if it changes your advice on what I might be experiencing). The massage guy did kiss my nipples while he was giving me a hand job at the end (no mouth kissing).

2. Is some of these red bumps on my back appear and disappear (completely) within 1-3 days, does that suggest Zoster (of heaven forbid Simplex)? When I go for a check-up (I am due for a dermatologist appointment soon anyways), is there anything specific I should tell the Dr.?

Update...there are only two small redish dots left (and not more heat or itching).

Thanks.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Kissing- of any sort- absolutely no risk and of no concern.

As I said above, this issue of zoster is something that is best diagnosed by exam and in person.  That your lesions ressolved so quickly is a bit atypical of zoster.  I would discuss it with the dermatologist as you plan to do.  EWH

[Copter1]

Hello. Can I ask you another question?

I am taking your advice and seeing a dermatologist this week. But, since our last email, I have developed a small cold sore on my inner cheek (next to my teeth). What are your thoughts? Due to stress? Something else? Is this something the dermatologist can look at? Should I be concerned?