How to treat small spots and rash on my penis?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am enquiring about some advice on a rash that has developed over the last two days on the head of my penis. I can provide a photo (attachment removed to patient's identity) if needed. It has developed small spots and rash-like surfaces out of nowhere.

I am sexually active with my partner, and I have not had to deal with anything like this. The surface has become a little dry, which has caused me a bit of discomfort. Not sure what the next steps I should take are.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

If there was unprotected sexual contact, we need to rule out sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The following tests are recommended:

Treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay (TPHA) to screen for syphilis.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and 2 nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) or real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) (do not check HSV immunoglobulin G [IgG], as it is not useful for diagnosing active infection).

Urine polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae; human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) 4th generation antigen or antibody screening test; hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg); Urine Complete Analysis with Urine Culture and Sensitivity; and complete blood count (CBC) with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). These investigations will help rule out common causes of genital ulcers, discharge, irritation, or infection following potential exposure.

If there was no unprotected sexual exposure, treatment depends on the likely cause. If the condition appears to be a bacterial infection, apply Mupirocin (T-Bact) ointment locally twice daily and take Doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for five days after food. If there is significant itching suggestive of a fungal infection, apply Clotrimazole and Beclomethasone (Candid-B) ointment locally twice daily and take Cetirizine 10 mg (Cetzin) once daily at night for itching.

For general genital hygiene:

Wash the area twice daily (morning and night) using normal room-temperature water.
Avoid using very hot or cold water, and do not use harsh or high-pH soaps.
Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.