Is It a Red Flag? Urological Concerns and Diagnosis - Urology

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Is it a red alert?


My boyfriend recently developed a red spot on his glans that has been present for about half a month.
It is neither painful nor itchy, and it hasn't increased in size.
He was quite anxious and went to see a urologist at a small clinic.
Upon entering, the doctor stated that they do not accept health insurance and claimed that treatments without insurance are more effective.
After a brief examination, the doctor diagnosed it as herpes and asked if he had been out recently, which I felt was a probing question to gauge the patient's reaction.
If he seemed nervous, it might confirm the doctor's suspicion.
The doctor recommended injections, medication, and topical treatment totaling 1400 NT dollars.
I was confused and asked the doctor about my boyfriend's activities, emphasizing that he hadn't been out and that we always use condoms during sexual intercourse.
The doctor then suggested that I should also get checked, to which I replied that I regularly undergo health screenings.
He mentioned that some diseases cannot be detected in standard tests and require specific examinations, even though I have no symptoms myself.
He insisted that my boyfriend needs to return for follow-up visits for injections and medication for better effectiveness.
I am seriously questioning whether he is trying to scam us.
The medication he provided resembles a small box of ointment for insect bites, lacking any medical labeling.
I am also very concerned about the contents of the injection he administered, and I am hesitant to let my boyfriend take the prescribed medication.
It feels like a series of unfortunate events, and my boyfriend is still worried about his symptoms.
Is it possible that the red spot could be a sexually transmitted infection? We have not engaged in any risky sexual behavior.

365 Gei Wei Shen Me?, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/03

Dr. Lin Hexing reply Urology


Based on your description, the condition on your boyfriend's genital area is not likely related to contact dermatitis or herpes.
It may be necessary to consider a reaction to the materials in the condom.
It would be more appropriate for a dermatologist to evaluate and treat your boyfriend's current skin condition.
I recommend that your boyfriend consult a trusted dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Reply Date: 2006/10/03

More Info


When it comes to urological concerns, especially those involving changes in the genital area, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and a clear understanding of potential diagnoses. In your boyfriend's case, the appearance of a red spot on the glans (the head of the penis) that is painless and has not changed in size over the past month raises several considerations.

Firstly, while the initial diagnosis provided by the physician was herpes, it is crucial to recognize that many conditions can present similarly. Conditions such as contact dermatitis, fungal infections, balanitis (inflammation of the glans), or even benign lesions can cause redness without accompanying pain or itching. The fact that your boyfriend has been practicing safe sex by using condoms is a positive factor, as it significantly reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including herpes.

Given the situation, here are several steps and considerations that could help clarify the diagnosis and ensure appropriate care:
1. Seek a Second Opinion: If there is doubt about the initial diagnosis or the treatment plan, it is advisable to consult another healthcare provider, preferably a urologist or a dermatologist specializing in genital conditions. A thorough examination and possibly additional tests (such as a swab for viral cultures or blood tests for STIs) may provide more clarity.

2. Consider the Symptoms: Since the lesion is not painful, itchy, or growing, it may not be an active infection. However, if there are any changes in symptoms, such as the development of pain, discharge, or systemic symptoms (fever, malaise), it would warrant immediate medical attention.

3. Evaluate Treatment Recommendations: The treatment prescribed by the initial physician should be carefully evaluated. If the medications seem questionable or lack proper labeling, it is essential to discuss these concerns with a pharmacist or another healthcare provider. Transparency in medication content and purpose is crucial for safety.

4. Monitor the Lesion: Keep an eye on the lesion for any changes. If it starts to grow, change color, or develop other symptoms, it is vital to return to a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

5. Educate on STIs: While your boyfriend's safe sex practices reduce the risk of STIs, it is still important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of various infections. Regular health check-ups and STI screenings are advisable, especially if there are any concerns about exposure.

6. Communication: Open communication between partners about sexual health is essential. If either partner has concerns about potential exposure to STIs, discussing these openly can help both parties feel more secure and informed.

In summary, while the red spot on your boyfriend's glans may not necessarily indicate a serious condition, it is essential to approach the situation with a proactive mindset. Seeking a second opinion, monitoring the lesion, and ensuring that any treatments are appropriate and safe are all critical steps. If there are any further developments or concerns, do not hesitate to seek medical advice promptly.

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