HomeAnswersDermatologyfungal infectionI am a 44-year-old diabetic male with itching and rashes on the penis. How to treat it?

Can the use of steroid medication on penile skin cause rashes?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At August 30, 2022
Reviewed AtJanuary 16, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 44-year-old male diabetic on oral medication. Last month I got a problem with my penis. Its skin has become hard, and I cannot move it back. I read it was phimosis and applied Betnovate, and it became normal in four to five days. However, now my sugar is high, and I have developed rashes behind my glans penis. I am applying Candid, but it has not resolved and is itching too much. Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Please attach a clinical image to arrive at a definitive diagnosis so I can guide you accordingly. Possible differential diagnosis could be balanoposthitis, balanitis, and genital scabies. Attach a clinical image for a proper treatment plan. Avoid Betnovate (Betamethasone valerate) application as it is a very potent steroid to be applied on sensitive penile skin. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am attaching the pictures of the affected area. Kindly suggest.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

From the pictures (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity) attached, I suggest it is candidial balanoposthitis. It is an infection caused by yeast or fungus Candida albicans. It flourishes in warmth and moisture due to prolonged contact with soap, water, urine dribbling, and improper genital hygiene, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Redness, tiny superficial pus-filled lesions, erosions with discharge, or tight foreskin are typical presentations. People with diabetes are the most commonly affected individuals. In addition, patients on potent steroids or laceration of the skin due to climate or clothing are prone to its infection. I would suggest apply 1 % Clotrimazole cream twice daily for two weeks. Apply Mupirocin cream (2.15 % w/w Mupirocin calcium) or Fucidin cream (Fusidic acid 2%) during the daytime for seven days. Take Tablet Fluconazole 150 mg only once stat (immediately). Maintain proper hygiene. Avoid the application of potent steroids like Betnovate. Stop Betnovate immediately. Keep the area clean and dry. Wash area with Episoft cleanser, no soap cleanser, or Cetaphil (Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Panthenol, Niacinamide, and Pantolactone) cleanser daily and gently pat dry after cleaning or urination. Avoid moisture, warmth, heat, injury, friction, or occlusion at the site. Wear loose, comfortable thin cotton inners. Keep checking on sugar levels. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with them and take medicines with their consent after prescribing medications. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have started medicine as you suggested and sharing today's picture of the area.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It will take two to three weeks to subside if you take all proper measures and medications. Also, keep a check on sugar levels. Continue the treatment and revert in two weeks. Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Dhepe Snehal Madhav
Dr. Dhepe Snehal Madhav

Venereology

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