What are the common reasons for rash on the head of the penis?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had a rash on the head of my penis for around two months. They are purplish, sore, and tender to the touch. I have seen my primary care doctor, and he was not sure about the condition and gave me Triamcinolone acetonide cream over two weeks ago. It has not helped. I was also tested recently for STD (sexually transmitted disease), and all of which came back negative except herpes 1, which I have had for a long time. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I do not believe this to be any kind of normal discoloration since some spots and sores were present.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

The condition you are suffering is not an STD (sexually transmitted disease) for sure because none of the STDs are present like this. There are three most common probabilities of your problem.

Penile Lichen planus: It presents in a similar manner with a purplish colour, and itching may or may not be present.
Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus: Lichen Sclerosus starts as a purplish patch; later on, atrophy develops and becomes white in colour. It is usually associated with intense itching, and the patient may have dyspareunia.
Allergic contact dermatitis: Due to clothes or condoms.
Are you suffering from any other medical illness, autoimmune disorders, thyroid, hypertension, or diabetes?
You have not mentioned the predominant complaint in that purplish lesion. Is it itching, burning, or painful? What is its nature?
Are you on any medication? Because certain medications can cause fixed drug eruption like that.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

Fine, it is not a fixed drug eruption. No, it is not an STD and is not contagious. I am pretty sure it is an autoimmune disorder. A final diagnosis can only be made on physical examination and histopathological examination. Nevertheless, you can use Clobetasol ointment twice daily for 15 days. As Clobetasol is a super potent steroid, it should not be used without monitoring; that is, do not keep applying it if it has relieved.

Triamcinolone is a low-potency steroid and will not work in it. Get a review in 15 days. Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.