PENILE RASHES
A genital rash is a skin symptom that can occur on any part of the male genital region and can be caused by a variety of health problems. It can be medically termed as balanitis, balanoposthitis, posthitis depending on which area were affected.
Rashes are usually reddish in colour, and can be painful or itchy, with bumps or sores.
A fungal infection of the penile skin is the most common cause of itch and rash over the penis. STDs such as trichomonas, a parasite, are also potential causes. Redness or itching that does not go away should be taken more seriously to rule out skin cancers of the penis.
Causes of penile skin rashes
A genital rash can be caused by a variety of things, including These includes sexually transmitted infections (STIs), genital herpes, parasite, fungal and bacterial, allergies, and inflammatory disorders.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
1) Genital herpes
The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes genital herpes, which causes inflammation and itching in the genital region and on the penis. Since the virus can remain dormant in the body for years, some people who are infected with HSV are unaware of their infection. An outbreak can cause tiny clusters of fluid-filled blisters in addition to itching.
2) Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is passed from person to person via sexual contact. It causes a rash that may appear on any part of the body. The rash is not always itchy.
3) Genital Warts
Genital warts are small growths that develop around the genitals such as penis or anus. They are also known as venereal warts, or condylomata acuminata. The warts form separately or in clusters. They may be small, at 5 mm or less, though in some cases they develop into large masses.
Other Causes Of Penile Skin Rashes
1) Balanitis
Balanitis is the swelling and inflammation of the glans (head) of the penis. This region is hidden by a flap of skin called the foreskin in men who are not circumcised.
Fungal balanitis / Inflammation balanitis
A yeast infection, also known as fungal balanitis, is the most common cause of penile skin rashes. During sexual activity, you could be exposed to the fungus, which may lead to a penis infection.
Symptoms include itchiness and redness over the penis, thick white substance collection in skin folds, painful penis and foreskin, burning sensation while urinating, discomfort during sexual intercourse and a repulsive odour over the genital area.
2) Jock’s itch
A fungal infection in the groin region, also known as ringworm infection. The rash is red, itchy, scaly, and may form blisters.
3) Molluscum contagiosum
A viral infection that causes firm, isolated, round bumps on the skin. They may be itchy and swollen.
4) Parasite infection
Pubic lice may lay their eggs in the genital region and are distributed most widely by sexual contact. Teenagers are the most likely victims. Itching and sores are common symptoms of a pubic lice infestation.
Scabies is an itchy skin rash brought on by tiny mites. They burrow into the skin, causing severe itching, especially at night.
5) Allergies and autoimmune disorders
A common form of rash that occurs when skin comes into contact with an allergen or an irritant such as a harsh chemical substance is called contact dermatitis. Latex, which is widely used in condoms, is an allergen that can cause a rash in the genital region.
Psoriasis is a skin disease that affects many people. Although the cause is unclear, doctors believe it is caused by an autoimmune condition. It can cause a rash that is pinkish, scaly, and itchy anywhere on the body. Psoriasis can also cause rashes in the genital area in men.
Treatments for penile skin rashes
The type of treatment for a genital rash is determined by the underlying cause.
If you're feeling extreme irritation that won't go away, you should see a doctor. Many conditions that cause rashes on the penis are easy to manage.
In addition to treating the underlying condition, your doctor can prescribe a cream to alleviate the symptoms.
If the infected area is kept clean and dry, certain skin infections may recover without treatment.
Some of the treatment options are listed below:
Creams
Topical creams or lotions may be prescribed to be applied to the affected area a couple of times a day. They may be antifungal, antibacterial or steroid creams, depending on the underlying cause of your genital rash. Asking your doctor will determine which one is the most suitable for your conditions.
Oral tablets
Some rashes are treated with prescription oral medications like antibiotics or antifungal. Your doctor may also prescribe medications that can help ease the itchiness like antihistamines.
Drying agents
With your doctor's approval, potassium permanganate solution can be used to minimise excessive moisture over the penis head and foreskin. Extreme moisture promotes fungal growth and this procedure can help prevent such conditions.
Circumcision
In certain conditions especially if it's recurrent and chronic, you may want to consider removing the foreskin. Please click below if you want to know more about circumcision
Others
Lice may be treated with a medicated wash that is applied directly to the infected area, left on for the specified time period, and then washed away.
Clothing and bedding should be washed in hot water to avoid reinfection.
What is the outcome of penile skin rashes?
The prognosis for most rashes is excellent.
The underlying cause can usually be treated, and the rash will go away once treatment is completed. Parasites and diseases that aren't sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be treated and avoided with proper treatment and hygiene.
Throughout this scenario, if the symptoms don't go away on their own, you should see the doctor.