HomeAnswersDermatologyherpesI have rashes below my waistline including the penis. Why?

I have rashes below my waistline including penis. Do I need urgent care?

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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.

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Published At July 4, 2018
Reviewed AtFebruary 22, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have rashes basically everywhere below the waistline. It started two days ago and have somewhat spread from the initial location (bug bite on the upper right thigh). There is some bruising around the initial location. I have been using Lotrimin and Cortizone cream but there is no effect on using them. Hot showers seem to help reduce redness and slight swelling. It does itch and I got pus on when I scratched it harder (trying to stop the habit). I have attached a few images. Please go through them.

I have not changed any soaps, detergents, or shampoo recently. I have not changed my diet. I had been walking through some woods (could it be some type of poison ivy or something). I have my house, bed, clothes, and carpet always cleaned and there are no signs of bugs. My dog has not had the habit of scratching anything. I am good and healthy with no medications taken or pre-existing conditions. What does this look like? Do you think this requires an ER (emergency)/urgent care visit and see a dermatologist early in the week? I am pretty concerned since it is on my penis.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen your attachment (attachment removed to protect patient identity). The condition looks like poison ivy. There are few blisters evolving, it may go on for one to two weeks without treatment. Poison ivy usually requires oral Prednisone to keep it under control.

Another possibility is, herpes zoster - the reactivation of varicella virus presenting with blisters in a group with areas of redness. I am unable to make out with these pictures if the rash is on both your thighs or if it is only on one thigh. If it is only one thigh, with burning sensation and pain, it favors herpes zoster which needs to be treated early with oral antivirals (Valacyclovir). In both cases, I would suggest you visit your doctor as soon as possible. To keep itching under control, topical Calamine lotion with aloe and oral antihistamines like Zyrtec (Cetirizine) will be helpful.

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

Dr. Ashwini. V. Swamy
Dr. Ashwini. V. Swamy

Venereology

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