Small Wounds at the Penis and Glans Junction: Causes and Treatments - Urology

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Regarding the small wound at the junction of the foreskin and glans that was inquired about two days ago?


Hello Dr.
Hsu, I am the person who inquired about the wound at the junction of the foreskin and glans a few days ago.
The situation seems to have not improved over the past two days.
Upon closer inspection, I now see six areas of concern instead of the four I mentioned last time.
The wounds are still small, about 2mm in size.
However, unlike before, each wound is surrounded by redness and swelling, and they resemble sores caused by excessive heat in the mouth.
Recently, I have been applying an antifungal ointment, which provides some relief, but the wounds have not shown significant improvement.
Given this situation, do you think it could still be herpes or a fungal infection as you mentioned last time? I apologize for bothering you again.

Li Zhu Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/21

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, based on your description, it is quite difficult to determine the exact type of infection.
However, it is generally advisable to consult a urologist or dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis.
From what I gather, it seems likely that you may have herpes, possibly combined with a bacterial infection.
Typically, viral infections are primarily managed by the body's immune system.
Over-the-counter ointments are mainly used to prevent secondary bacterial infections.
For herpes, there are now specific antiviral ointments available that are quite effective, but please note the following: 1.
Ensure that it is indeed herpes.
2.
Health insurance does not cover the cost, so you will need to pay out of pocket; a small tube of the ointment costs around $800.

Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, Hsu Wei-Kai.

Reply Date: 2005/09/21

More Info


When dealing with small wounds at the junction of the penis and glans, it is essential to understand the potential causes and appropriate treatments. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing multiple small wounds, approximately 2mm in size, accompanied by redness and swelling. The appearance of these wounds resembling those caused by oral ulcers suggests that they may be the result of irritation, infection, or another underlying condition.


Possible Causes
1. Fungal Infections: The use of an antifungal cream indicates that there may be a suspicion of a fungal infection, such as candidiasis. This type of infection can cause irritation and small lesions in the genital area, particularly in warm and moist environments.

2. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): The possibility of herpes should not be overlooked. Herpes can present as small, painful blisters or ulcers that can appear in clusters. If the lesions are recurrent, this could indicate a viral infection.

3. Irritation or Trauma: Small wounds can also result from friction or trauma, especially if there has been any recent activity that may have caused irritation, such as vigorous sexual activity or improper hygiene practices.

4. Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, contact dermatitis due to an allergic reaction to soaps, lotions, or latex products can cause similar symptoms.

5. Other Skin Conditions: Conditions like lichen planus or psoriasis can also manifest in the genital area, leading to small lesions.


Treatment Recommendations
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given that the wounds have not improved and have increased in number, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough examination. A healthcare professional can perform tests to determine the exact cause of the lesions.

2. Topical Treatments: While antifungal creams may provide some relief, it is essential to ensure that the correct diagnosis is made. If a viral infection is suspected, antiviral medications may be necessary. If the issue is irritation or an allergic reaction, a corticosteroid cream may help reduce inflammation.

3. Maintain Hygiene: Keeping the area clean and dry is vital. Use mild, unscented soap and avoid any products that may cause irritation. After washing, gently pat the area dry rather than rubbing it.

4. Avoid Irritants: Until the wounds heal, avoid any activities that may exacerbate the condition, such as sexual activity or wearing tight clothing that may cause friction.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the wounds, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any signs of infection, such as pus or fever, seek medical attention promptly.

6. Lifestyle Considerations: Ensure you are maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as factors like stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep can weaken the immune system and contribute to skin issues.


Conclusion
In summary, the presence of multiple small wounds at the junction of the penis and glans, especially with surrounding redness and swelling, warrants a careful evaluation by a healthcare provider. While antifungal treatments may provide some symptomatic relief, a definitive diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Avoid self-diagnosing and self-treating, as this could lead to complications or worsening of the condition. Seeking professional medical advice is the best course of action to ensure proper care and healing.

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