Penile Rash

[Gehrbaccus]

About 3 days ago I noticed a red, irritated area around the crown of my glans. I didn't think much of it at the time; I merely dismissed it as a minor irritation due to friction, or heat. Since then the area (about 1.25 x 1.25 cm) appears to be slightly swollen in comparison to the surrounding tissue, and beginning to take on a reddish color. I do experience a light itching sensation from time to time, but only when friction occurs (working, moving, walking, etc..). I have not experienced any discharge from the area or from my penis, nor have I had discomfort when urinating.

I had a discussion with my fiance, and she informed me that she had a complete screening less than 3 weeks ago, when she started her birth control. I don't want to jump to conclusions and start looking into STD possibilities, but if anyone has any ideas what may cause random rashes such as this, I'd appreciate the information.

Oh yes, and I have been diagnosed with Dyshidrotic Eczema...not sure if this may have some sort of link to it.

Thanks.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Based on what you have posted, the skin condition appears to be localized in the penile head. As this is relevant to your case, may I ask if you are circumcised?

Balanitis may be a primary differential here. Balanitis is a condition that is caused by several factors like bacteria, fungi or even secondary to traumatic causes or mechanical injury. I suggest that you have this assessed by your primary physician. A fungal or bacterial infection may be contagious.

A dermatitis is also a possible differential in your case. This will usually present with a rash and itchiness.

Washing the area with a mild and bland soap as well as keeping the area clean and dry at all times will be able to help.

[Gehrbaccus]

I apologize, I was trying to include all relevent information; yes, I am circumcised.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

At this point, a differential of dermatitis or fungal infection are still primary considerations based on what you have posted. An irritant balanitides is a primary differential

Here are some points to consider for this irritant form of balanitis:

Irritant / allergic balanitides
Diagnosis
•Typical appearance: very variable. Appearances range from mild
erythema to widespread oedema of the penis.
•History: symptoms have been associated with a history of atopy or
more frequent genital washing with soap. In a very small number of
cases a history of a precipitant may be obtained.
•Patch tests: useful in the small minority in whom true allergy is
suspected.
•Biopsy: may show non-specific inflammation.

Source:http://www.bashh.org/guidelines/2002/balanitis_0901b.pdf

Erythema refers to redness and oedema refers to swelling. Atopy mentioned above refers to previous history of allergies, asthma and allergic rhinitis. In your case, you mentioned of a previous history of eczema.

Your physician may be able to diagnose this after a complete physical examination. In some cases, a microscopic evaluation of a skin scraping to differentiate this rash from a fungal infection may be done.

Just keep the area dry and clean. Do not wear tight underpants .Wear underpants of light and cool material.

Here is a suggested article  for your case:

http://www.cirp.org/library/disease/balanitis/edwards1/