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STDs  (Expert Forum)
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Painless Genital Rash/Red Spot?
Answered by
University of Washington Seattle - WA
This forum is for questions and support regarding STD issues such as: Chlamydia, Crabs (pubic lice scabies), Gonorrhea, Hepatitis (viral), Herpes, HPV, Molluscum Contagiosum, PID, Rectal Infections, Syphilis, Trichomoniasis, Warts, Yeast Infection.All questions will be answered by H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D. or Edward W Hook, MD.

Painless Genital Rash/Red Spot?

by chuck1066, Mar 10, 2007 12:00AM
Dear Medhelp,

About six weeks ago I noticed a small red patch on the shaft of my penis just below the head (I'm circumcised). It is painless and has stayed constant in size (not spreading), varying slightly in redness with irritation e.g. bathing and contact. I have no other symptoms.

I have been in a monogamous relationship (really!) for two years, and both my girlfriend and I recently underwent a battery of STD tests, including HIV, Syphilis and a Herpes test (for me, on the spot). Everything came back negative.

It seems to get better if kept dry, but comes back after a shower or long days without exposure to the air (I work in the trades and get sweaty for long hours).

I don't seem to match the symptoms of any STD, or ringworm or other fungal infection. I've tried everything from tinea medication to calamine lotion to no avail and am afraid I may be suffering from some heretofore asymptomatic and rare condition.

Any Thoughts?

by H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D., Mar 11, 2007 12:00AM
To All Forum Users:

There was a software glitch and for several days a number of questions were misrouted to a server that did not post them properly. In addition, it appears that the automated limit to number of questions each day did not work properly. The result is a serious backlog. My replies to many questions will be briefer than usual, and I need to be very strict in following the rules about questions that duplicate others, especially for obvious low risk situations. You may use the Contact Us link to raise any concerns. Please note that it is not the moderator's decision whether or not to refund a credit card charge.

Also, I probably will not be able to respond to any follow-up comments or questions.

To your question:

I do not make specific diagnoses on line.  From your description, as well as the negative tests, you can be 100% certain the problem is not syphilis, herpes, or any other STD. Beyond that, I cannot say anything.  It is almost impossible you are '...suffering from some heretofore asymptomatic and rare condition'.  See a health care provider, preferably a dermatologist.  In the meantime, stop trying to find answers online; you will never be successful in knowing what you have until you are examined.

Good luck--  HHH, MD
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