Herpes?

[hallogen]

Hello there. Two and a half weeks ago I had an unprotected one night stand with a girl who has had multiple unprotected encounters in the past. Approximately two weeks after the encounter I began to develop a bit of a rash.
The shaft of my penis has a few small splotchy, shiny patches. The skin where the splotches are seems to be dryer than the rest of the penis. I’m not sure if they are raised but they don’t seem to be. The head is not affected by the rash.(I am circumcised by the way)  The patches are not itchy nor are they sensitive to the touch. There is minor flaking. If I apply body heat to my penis they do sting a little.Sometimes I can feel a sting even if I do nothing to it.I have had no discharge and have no trouble urinating.The first week after the encounter I had an urge to urinate more often but that has since gone.As well, my groin seems to be sweating more.Soap, hot water all don’t irritate the rash.
I, of course, have scheduled a full checkup for all STDs. Right now the rash seems mild but I’m not sure if this will get worse and turn to blisters. How long after a rash is seen do the blisters develop? Should I rush an appointment and get these spots looked at? Can a sample be taken from the rashes to determine herpes or does there have to be a blister?When I do go to get tested, is the HerpeSelect test available in Canada? And should I ask for it by name? I am taking propecia will that affect the blood test? Should I tell the tester?She was on her period and the actual penetration lasted all of two minutes. Do those factors make a difference?THANKS!

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

This sounds most like a fungal (yeast) infection, or perhaps contact dermatitis, ie allergy perhaps to a vaginal hygiene product.  Herpes is always a consideration with inflammatory genital lesions after sex, but this doesn't sound like herpes.  However, the 2-week delay is a bit too long for all these possibilities, and it is possible the rash is coincidental with your sexual encounter.  Non-sex-associated possiblities include contact dermatitis due to, say, residual detergent in your underwear; allergic rash (Probecia??); psoriasis; a dermatitis called lichen planus (common in the genital area--look for a purplish sheen); and others.

You could consider trying an OTC antifungal cream; look for the jock-itch products.  If that plus regular washing doesn't clear it up, see a health care provider, preferably a dermatolgist.

I doubt you have an STD.  Good luck--

HHH, MD