Why do I keep getting painless blisters that heal quickly?

Question

Hello doctor,

Firstly, I want to explain everything clearly. I have been getting recurring blisters over the past several months, and I have had more than 25 of them in total. Each blister usually heals on its own within about four to five days.

What is confusing is that they are painless. They do not itch, burn, or cause any discomfort.

I also got tested for herpes, with HSV-1 at 1.12 and HSV-2 at 1.15. I am HIV negative and tested negative for syphilis as well. I am physically active and go to the gym regularly, so I wanted to mention that too.

Given all this, I am just trying to understand what could be causing these recurring blisters.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Please share a clear picture of the affected area so I can guide you better. If there was unprotected sexual contact, we need to rule out sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Please do the following tests:

TPHA (treponema pallidum hemagglutination), if you already did this test, no need to repeat.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 and 2 - NAAT (nucleic acid amplification test) and RT-PCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction). Do not check HSV IgG (herpes simplex virus immunoglobulin G); it is not useful for diagnosis.
Urine PCR (protein-creatinine ratio) for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) 4th-generation antigen/antibody screening.
Urine complete analysis, urine culture & sensitivity.
CBC (complete blood count) & ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate).

These tests will help us rule out common causes of genital ulcers, discharge, and irritation after exposure. If there was no unprotected exposure:

If it looks like a bacterial infection: Apply Mupirocin ointment locally twice daily. Doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for 5 days (after food)
If there is significant itching (suggestive of fungal infection): Apply Candid-B ointment locally twice daily. Cetirizine (Cetzin) 1 tablet at night for itching.

General genital hygiene advice:

Wash the genital area twice daily (morning and night).
Use normal room-temperature water.
Avoid hot water or cold water.
Do not use harsh or high pH soaps.
Keep the area dry and avoid tight clothing.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.