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Urology  (Expert Forum)
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Rash and Swelling on Penis when touched
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Rash and Swelling on Penis when touched

by molluscum man, May 26, 2007 12:00AM
Hi, Great Service:

March 17: diagnosed with molluscum (genital) infection. Use (generic) retin-A. Causes AWFUL reaction, including a fissure on the head of my penis and some lacerations in (what's left of) my foreskin. (I have had a circumcision.) treat with zinc oxide.

May switch to some (iodine based) molluscum medication i found online. Causes awful reaction on my penis.  Nurse practitioner says put zinc oxide on it.

May 15: penis is red and irritated. The texture is like a powdery latex glove. Then the powdery feeling goes away and the skin swells every time it is rubbed. The swelling is generally flesh colored (or a light pink)

May 21: Doctor gives me antibiotics (doxcycline), as he thinks I may have folliculitis and other secondary infections (i have a rash on my stomach as well); dermatologist gives me desonide lotion, as she thinks its eczema

May 25: Penis feels MUCH better, but any time it is rubbed the skin turns light red and then it swells in the spot it was touched.

Any clues? (I know this is hard when you can't see it.)

by Kevin Pho, MD, May 26, 2007 12:00AM
Agree that it is difficult to evaluate without an exam.  

The infection as well as variety of topical treatments may have irritated the skin, leading to the fragility and sensitivity.  The steroid cream may be helpful - however, it should not be used on a long-term basis.  Hydrating creams can also help it heal.  

If a skin infection is present, appropriate antibiotics would also help with the healing.  

Another referral to a dermatologist can be considered.  If the skin problems are refractory or continue, a biopsy can be considered for a more definitive diagnosis.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
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