Distinct Red Marks on penis wont go away for 5 months

[Samuel528]

Hi,
I am 17 and have these distinct marks on my penis and in my pubic area. I am conscious as i wont let another girl see my penis and also worried that it could be infectious on touch. I have had these marks/rash on my penis and pubic area for about 5 months now and am getting desperate. They are not from friction but they get worse if i masturbate. They started in my pubic area and were there with or as large spots (red areas and spots all together), which looked like lumps until they burst just like large spots. However no more spots have come since about 4 months ago. I have tried a steroid based cream and that did work slightly and made them fade away but not totally. Although some have faded others have come up in different areas very soon after.

The picture shows one of the groups of marks that are on my penis.
Thank you very much for reading and i would appreciate any advice how to get rid of this.Thank you
Sam

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
If it is lichen planus, then it is best to avoid sugar rich foods because diet high in sugar will probably aggravate this condition. If there are any lesions in the mouth then certain foods which need to be avoided are Spicy foods, citrus juices, tomato products, caffeinated drinks like coffee and cola, and crispy foods like toast and corn chips.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[Samuel528]

Thank you very much for the reply.
Is there any foods you would suggest I eat or anything? thank you.
Sam

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to lichen planus. Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the oral mucosa, and presents itself in the form of papules(flat spots) or rashes. Treatment is available only on prescription and consists mainly of steroids,retinoids,hydroquinone and phototherapy.
I suggest you to consult a dermatologist and get it evaluated.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.