Which Specialist Should My Nephew Consult?
My nephew, a young man in his early twenties, is currently living with me while he attends college. Recently, he mentioned to me that he has noticed two white rings developing on either side of the head of his penis. This condition reminded me of when I dealt with balanitis in the past, so I provided him with the same cream that had helped me. However, after a week of usage, there hasn’t been any improvement. I believe it's now time for him to seek medical advice, but I'm uncertain about which type of doctor he should see. Should it be a urologist, dermatologist, or would urgent care be more appropriate? He seems quite convinced that this is not a sexually transmitted infection, claiming that his last encounter was on Halloween.
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 7:10:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like your nephew is dealing with a concerning skin condition, and I appreciate your proactive approach in helping him seek the right care. Given the description of white rings on the head of the penis and the lack of improvement with over-the-counter treatment, it's important to get a proper diagnosis.
Main Points:
- Consult a Specialist: A urologist is the most appropriate specialist for this issue.
- Possible Conditions: The symptoms could be related to various skin conditions, infections, or other urological concerns.
Explanation:
The white rings developing on his penis might suggest a few possible conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the head of the penis), penile lichen planus, or even some forms of psoriasis. Given that you mentioned he has used a cream similar to what helped you in the past with no improvement, it’s crucial to have a healthcare professional evaluate his symptoms more closely. Urologists specialize in issues related to male reproductive health and conditions affecting the urinary tract, making them well-suited for this situation.
Next Steps:
- Schedule an Appointment: Encourage your nephew to see a urologist for a thorough examination as soon as possible. This will allow for targeted assessment and treatment.
- Prepare for the Visit: Have him note any additional symptoms, his medical history, and any treatments he has tried. This information will be helpful during the appointment.
- Avoid Self-Medicating Further: While it's understandable to want relief, he should avoid using any more creams or medications without consulting a doctor first, as this could complicate diagnosis.
If he experiences severe symptoms (such as significant pain, swelling, or fever), consider urgent care as an option, but for this particular issue, a urologist is the best choice. Please let him know that seeking help is a normal and important step in addressing health concerns.
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