Redness and Pain on the Glans: A Urology Perspective

Regarding the redness and soreness of the glans?

Hello Doctor: About 5 days ago, after doing a DIY procedure (I had washed my hands with antibacterial hand sanitizer before the DIY), I noticed a red spot on the coronal sulcus, and the area around it was red as well.
I visited a nearby regional hospital's dermatology department, and the doctor prescribed RinDERON VA Cream (a steroid ointment) for me because I have a history of eczema in the groin area since childhood, which has never fully resolved (it tends to flare up in humid weather).
The doctor advised me to apply this ointment to the coronal sulcus area as well.
However, I found that the more I applied it, the more it became sore and painful (isn't it true that steroid ointments should not be applied excessively?).
I took the liberty of applying the ointment all over the glans.
Could it be that the steroid ointment is too irritating, causing this discomfort? When I don't apply it, there are no issues, but applying it makes the glans uncomfortable, even though the red spot has disappeared (I wonder if I can stop the medication now).
P.S.
I have not engaged in any sexual activity, only the aforementioned DIY.
Thank you for your response, Doctor!

jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/06/05

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, localized redness and swelling may be caused by irritation from the ointment or an allergy to it.
If there are no red spots, you can discontinue the medication.
If there are any uncertainties, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Responses on the internet should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, who cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2014/06/05

More Info

Understanding redness and pain on the glans can be a complex issue, especially when considering the various factors that could contribute to such symptoms. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing localized redness and discomfort on the glans, particularly after applying a topical corticosteroid cream (RinDERON.VA) prescribed by your dermatologist.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that the glans (the head of the penis) is a sensitive area with a high concentration of nerve endings, making it susceptible to irritation and inflammation. The redness you observed could be due to several factors, including irritation from the cream, a reaction to the ingredients in the cream, or even an underlying condition such as balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans.

Corticosteroid creams, like the one you were prescribed, are often used to reduce inflammation and treat various skin conditions, including eczema and dermatitis. However, they can also cause thinning of the skin with prolonged use, leading to increased sensitivity and potential irritation, especially in delicate areas like the glans. If you applied the cream excessively, it could indeed lead to the symptoms you are experiencing, such as increased pain and discomfort.
It’s also worth noting that while corticosteroids can be effective in treating inflammation, they should be used judiciously and typically in small amounts. Overuse can lead to side effects, including skin atrophy, which may explain why you felt more discomfort after applying the cream.
Given that the red spot has resolved, it may be reasonable to discontinue the use of the cream, especially if you are no longer experiencing significant symptoms. However, it is crucial to monitor the area for any signs of recurrence or worsening of symptoms. If the discomfort persists or if you notice any new symptoms, such as discharge, increased redness, or swelling, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In addition to the topical treatment, consider other factors that might contribute to your symptoms. For example, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding irritants (such as harsh soaps or lotions), and ensuring that the area remains dry can help prevent future flare-ups. If you have a history of eczema or dermatitis, managing these underlying conditions is also essential.

Lastly, while you mentioned that you have not engaged in any sexual activity, it’s important to be aware that certain infections can still occur through other means, including skin-to-skin contact. If you have any concerns about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other infections, it would be prudent to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

In summary, the redness and pain you are experiencing on the glans could be attributed to irritation from the corticosteroid cream, especially if applied excessively. Since the red spot has resolved, it may be safe to discontinue the cream, but continue to monitor the area for any changes. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice for further assessment and management.

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