HSV-2

Dr's - Thank you so much for your time and effort in helping people with their questions.  I am just grateful I found this site for information.  My question has to do with HSV-2.  I am a 23/m heterosexual who has had a couple unprotected encounters in the past year but some protected encounters also.  I had a growth on my scrotum which I found out later to be HPV and was prescribed Aldara which is working and is diminshing it.  When using the Aldara it really irritates and makes the skin red on the right side of my scrotum (where the wart is).  One day it was itching and on closer inspection of the area I noticed what looked like a tiny cluster of pimples up towards the base of my penis when I turn it to the side in some pubic hair (It looks like the area where a condom would not cover).  They are not raised but are hard to make out.  They have been there for over a week now and are not sores or blisters of any kind that I can tell.  There are not any hairs growing out of them either.  I have been really trying to look at them closely but when I run my finger over them there isn't anything raised.  I have not had unprotected sex for over 2 months now.  I was wondering what are the chances of this being herpes and if this could be an initial outbreak - how long does one last?  If they just dissappear one day this is not good right?  Or could this be more HPV?  I plan on getting tested for everything but 3 months would be a good time correct?  Thank you for your time.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

From what you describe, I suspect what you have noticed is entirely normal skin on your scrotum.  The skin of the scrotum has many small bumps of the sort you describe and my guess is that is what you are seeing.  It in no way sounds like herpes and in most unlikely to be HPV. Having said that, there is no substitute for having a knowledgeable person take a look at the bumps.  i would advise a trip to your local STD clinic or your own health care provider for an inspection.  Hope this helps.  EWH