I have cluster of bumps on shaft lasting for three days. Please help.

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had an sexually transmitted disease (STD) for 30 years but it occurs only on the surfaces for every four or five years and only under much stress. I was able to photograph it this time but still cannot see a doctor for a couple of days. I am afraid it will vanish again before I see a doctor. The bumps are in clusters of three on my shaft. It lasts for two or three days and then goes away.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I have seen the photo. (attachment removed to protct patient identity). It is herpes genitalis. Is it associated with itching or burning sensation? Does your partner suffer from a similar problem? How many episodes per year? If you have recurrent episodes you should consider oral antiviral medication. Standard treatment for herpes genitalis is Tablet Acyclovir 400 mg three times a day for seven days after meal, Rantac 150 mg before meal twice a day, Fusidic acid 2% cream twice a day can be applied. Partner treatment is a must. Avoid sexual contact. In case of recurrent episodes patient is given suppressive therapy for more than seven days with a low dose. You said you have sexually transmitted disease (STD) for 30 years means, have you done STD profile before? If not you should get it done. In herpes genitalis vesicles appear on the genital area commonly on the glans or shaft of the penis which burst even without touching leaving small clean looking ulcers, which usually heal within seven days. It is associated sometimes with itching or burning sensation.