Red patches on Penis head and shaft

[chrichter]

Hi I have had some skin irritations that are red patches not always circular and shiny. I have had them on the head and on the shaft closest to the head now for 3 years. The first one healed in a year so I thought it was over. Then another set of patches came up. They don't burn or hurt unless my clothing rubs against them continuously. No discharges, etc. I have tried antibiotics, keeping the area dry. Nothing seems to heal it fast, it takes many months to a year, then by that time a new set will emerge. They seem to try to heal, some dry skin will be present on them at times but then it goes away and the patches remain.

I am 30 years old. I have had monogamous relationships with only a few partners, been tested for STD's. This only started happening when I was around 27, anytime before that I have had no problems.

I am not comfortable going to a physician

Any help would appreciated.

Thank you,

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
You can apply any brand of lactocalamine but do remember to wear cotton clothes and keep it as dry as possible by using a non perfumed hypoallergenic soap and they leaving it dry.


I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the appearance they appear as molluscum but the doctor is roght that they can be swollen sweat glands also. No treatment other than warm compresses and washing with fresh water are required but they become painful then it means they are infected, then topical and oral antimicrobials are required.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[chrichter]

Hello thank you for your response Dr. Kaur. I'm going to take your advice and see a Dermatologist soon.

In the mean time, what kind of calamine lotion do you recommend? Brand? I have noticed that I sweat much more in that area than I use to. I have been wearing loose cotton boxers and what do you recommend I do to keep it dry? Baby powder?

Thank you again,

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Without examination, confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can be contact dermatitis, rash due to friction rub with clothes, dermatitis (atopic, contact, allergic),excessive sweating causing sweat dermatitis or balanitis(due to an underlying infection (bacterial and fungal as well as other organisms) .

You may try calamine lotion on the rash. You should also maintain hygiene and try to keep the area clean and dry, wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Also use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. You can also use calamine lotion and get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

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.