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Avatar universal

Scab phase

Hi,
I've experienced my first OB 18 months after being infected. The initial OB was more like a rash than typical blisters so I wasn't sure it was herpes. The rash only lasted a few days whilst taking valtrex then vanished. My bloods were negative for hsv1 and 2 at the 12 week mark. This time, however, I had what I thought was an insect bite on my penis shaft that turned into typical herpes blisters within a few days and I had local swollen lymph glands. The blisters turned to scabs a few days later.
I was under the impression that everything should be cleared up within 10 days but these scabs have been hanging around for longer. I only had access to acyclovir after the blisters had scabbed which I understand is too late.
When can I expect these scabs to fall off so I can go back to some normality down there. I have finally excepted my fate that I have herpes but am confused as to why these scabs are still here 15 days on.
Any insights would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance
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Avatar universal
Thanks for the reply,
Yes it was a PCR test and was positive for Varacella zoster DNA.
I had received oral sex 18 months ago from a one night encounter and came out with a rash on my penis that didn't look anything like what I have now. The medics thought it could be herpes but all tests for that were negative at the time.
This is the first and hopefully only encounter of shingles I have had as the same tests were conducted 18 months ago and I was negative for zoster.
Cheers for your thoughts, hope it fades soon
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Just confirm that it was truly a PCR and not a biopsy that confirmed Zoster?

Yes indeed this happens on the genitals. Recurrences of Zoster is actually a little more common than people think. For example people with cold sores, oral HSV1, who have an outbreak elsewhere on their face or even body should keep this open as a possibility. Zoster is not always a one shot severe shingles recurrence. It can last a period of time.

Why did you believe you were infected 18 months ago? Have you been married for very long? Has your wife tested?

Your 12 week test was conclusive that you were not infected at that time.

It would be most unlikely that if your wife has already the Zoster virus that you can trigger an episode for her. Best to let the episode heal before resuming sexual relations.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi,
I got some strange results today regarding my penile lesions. I tested negative for hsv1 and 2 aswell as every other std. This was via PCR swab and serology. I did however, test positive for Varicella Zoster via PCR swab. The doctor said he has never seen shingles present on the genitals. Has anyone heard of this? Could this be why my lesions, whilst dry, are still present after 3.5 weeks?
I am concerned about passing this on to my wife even though she has had chicken pox as a kid. Is this possible?
I guess I'm glad I tested negative for hsv but am perplexed at this diagnosis.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi Grace,
That's correct, I have never had a + blood test. I will see the doctor tomorrow and request another one. Can herpes scabs last for a week before they fall off? This time I had all the classic symptoms so I just figured they were right with their initial diagnosis 18 months ago
Helpful - 0
101028 tn?1419603004
odds are this isn't a herpes issue going on.  see a dermatologist.

so you've never had a + herpes blood test?
Helpful - 0
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