Accepted Answer

Hello XXXXXXXXXXXXX,

 

Its hard to say, not seeing you, but I will certainly give it my best shot.

You may have the start of a fungal or bacterial infection of the penis, called balanitis. Most cases of this are in UNcircumsized men though circumsized men can get this as well. Balantitis, IF fungal, can be treated by over the counter anti fungal creams. HOWEVER, I do not know 100% that it IS a fungal infection (or even that it is Balantitis) though from what you write it does appear it could be such. Red patches, and the size of it may speak to more of a fungal irritation, however.

Balantitis can also be caused by bacteria; if this is the case it would need antibiotic ointments or oral medications (depending on severity).

I therefore reccomend you see your physician regarding this, especially as it is a common occurence. And of course, not seeing you, this could be an entirely different thing; I am just stating what may be most probable.

I would make an appointment to have this evaluated just to err on the side of safety.

Here is a helpful website regarding balantitis: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000862.htm

You will see it refers mainly to uncircumsized men.

 

Could this be a sort of STD? In theory, yes, but herpes is more of a blister type lesion, and the chancre of syphilis is also more of a blister type lesion. But a doctors visit would be in order to determine what it is and the appropriate treatment.

Here is more information on STDs: http://www.fwhc.org/health/std.htm

I hope I was able to help,
Sincerely,
Susan

Expert:	Nurse Susan
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Answered:	10/17/2009

Nurse (RN)

RN, BSN, MSN-ED, Nurse Educator whose passion is helping people understand their health and wellness