Fungal Infections: Red Spots on the Glans and Skin Care

Q: Fungal Infections: Red Spots on the Glans and Skin Care

Hello： The general principle is that if there is a break in the skin, it is more serious due to the presence of a wound. <br>If there is no break in the skin, it may be a minor injury or infection. <br>Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid getting it wet for 1-2 days. <br>Wishin

Glans fungal infection?

Hello Doctor: For the past couple of days, I have noticed a small red patch on the glans, with a few subtle red spots.
There are also some on the foreskin, and it feels like the skin is broken.
Is it possible that this is due to my DIY activities where I used toilet paper to wipe, or could it be that I cleaned too thoroughly while showering (only using water), which caused the skin to break? Currently, there is no pain or itching, but I am also dealing with tinea cruris and applying medication daily.
I am unsure if this could be a fungal infection.
If it is a skin break, will it heal on its own? Thank you.

Xiao Ming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/25

Dr. Liu Mingyue reply Urology

Hello: The general principle is that if there is a break in the skin, it is more serious due to the presence of a wound.
If there is no break in the skin, it may be a minor injury or infection.
Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid getting it wet for 1-2 days.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/08/25

More Info

Fungal infections can manifest in various forms, and your symptoms of red spots on the glans and skin irritation could indeed be indicative of a fungal infection, particularly given your history of tinea cruris (jock itch). Fungal infections, including those caused by dermatophytes (the fungi responsible for conditions like athlete's foot and jock itch), can spread to different areas of the body, including the genital region.
The red spots you are observing on the glans and the irritation on the foreskin could be due to several factors. One possibility is that the irritation is a result of friction or mechanical irritation from wiping with tissue or excessive washing. While maintaining cleanliness is important, over-washing or using harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This can create an environment conducive to fungal growth, especially if there is any break in the skin barrier.

Given that you have a current fungal infection (tinea cruris), it is plausible that the same fungus could spread to the genital area. Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments, which are often found in the groin area. If you are applying antifungal medication for your jock itch, it is essential to ensure that you are also treating any potential fungal infection in the genital area, as these infections can coexist.

In terms of treatment, if the red spots are indeed due to a fungal infection, continuing the antifungal treatment while ensuring that the area is kept clean and dry is crucial. You should avoid using any irritating substances or harsh soaps on the affected area. Instead, gentle cleansing with water and mild soap is recommended. After washing, make sure to thoroughly dry the area, as moisture can exacerbate fungal growth.

If the symptoms persist or worsen, or if you notice any additional symptoms such as pain, itching, or discharge, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A dermatologist can provide a proper diagnosis and may perform a skin scraping to identify the specific type of fungus involved. They can also prescribe appropriate antifungal medications if necessary.

In summary, while it is possible that the red spots on the glans are related to your current fungal infection or irritation from mechanical factors, careful observation and proper hygiene are key. If there is no improvement or if symptoms escalate, seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure appropriate treatment and care.

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