Seeking Advice on Persistent Skin Issue
Greetings, I am reaching out for assistance regarding a troubling patch I've developed. I’m a 28-year-old male, and I have a history of eczema affecting various areas of my body, including my face, elbows, knees, and legs, though I'm uncertain if it's related to my current issue. For the past few months, I’ve noticed a patch located on the tip of my penis that refuses to heal. It tends to scab and flake but never fully recovers; it always appears scabbed over or pinkish/red in color. Notably, I do not experience any kind of itching, burning sensations, or discomfort—it's completely flat and devoid of blisters. Over the last week, I have tried applying hydrocortisone cream and Eucerin's eczema lotion, but it feels like those treatments may have aggravated the condition rather than improved it. I have not had any sexually transmitted infections, and I've been with my wife for nearly seven years, and she is similarly infection-free. I recently took some pictures for reference, though it was tricky to focus the camera on that specific area. I have a dermatology appointment scheduled for this Wednesday. Any insights or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Answers (1)
6/27/2025, 7:20:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's important to address your concerns about the persistent patch on your penis, especially given your history of eczema. A patch that does not heal, especially in a sensitive area, can be troubling. Since you have a scheduled dermatology appointment, you're already taking an important step in managing your skin health. Here’s a summary of your situation along with some practical steps to take before your appointment.
Key Points:
- You have a persistent, non-healing patch on the tip of your penis that is red and flaky but not itchy or painful.
- You have a history of eczema, which may or may not be related to this new issue.
- Current treatments with hydrocortisone and eczema lotion may not have helped and could have aggravated the condition.
Explanation:
The patch you’re describing could be influenced by several factors including eczema, a dermatitis type specific to that area, or possibly another dermatological condition. The lack of discomfort reduces the likelihood of an infectious process, such as an STI, especially given your stable relationship. However, without a visual examination, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact cause.
Next Steps:
- Keep the Area Clean and Dry: Gently wash the area with mild soap and water; avoid harsh chemicals or excessive moisture which could aggravate the skin.
- Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of any creams, lotions, or soaps that are heavily scented or contain alcohol, as these can further irritate sensitive skin.
- Limit Scratching or Picking: Although it might be tempting, avoid touching or picking at the patch to prevent potential infections or delays in healing.
- Track Changes: Monitor the patch closely for any changes in size, color, or sensation until your dermatology appointment on Wednesday. Take clear pictures if you can, which may be helpful for the dermatologist.
- Prepare for Your Appointment: Since you’ve documented your condition, consider making a list of your observations to discuss with your dermatologist, such as how long the patch has been present, any changes in appearance, and any previous treatments you’ve tried.
In conclusion, while it’s understandable to be concerned about a non-healing patch, you’re doing the right thing by seeking specialized care. Stay attentive to the area and communicate your observations to your dermatologist for the best management moving forward. If any new symptoms develop, consider seeking medical advice sooner.
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